Incorporating nature into music therapy practice: a position paper
Year: 2026
Type: dissertation
Abstract: With increasing urbanization, the exponential growth of technology, and decreasing nature-connectedness there is a growing interest and need to understand nature’s role in supporting human health and well-being. While urbanization provides many benefits, it is also linked with negative health outcomes for humanity. Findings from multiple domains associate exposure to nature and the natural world with a plethora of holistic health benefits. However, the integration of nature-based approaches into clinical practice remains limited. Within the field of music therapy, the literature surrounding the intersection of music therapy and nature informed approaches is very limited. This position paper aims at exploring nature’s role within the field of music therapy, in attempts to better understand how to implement and incorporate it. The three nature connecting methods outlined in this paper are nature sounds, nature imagery and music therapy in outdoor natural settings. Research surrounding these three methods are provided and used to argue how and why the incorporation of nature into music therapy practice can help recharge the field and provide clients with additional benefits. Counterarguments and rebuttals regarding necessity, evidence, overreliance and risks are also outlined to provide a more balanced perspective. The paper concludes by discussing clinical implications and relevance, and emphasizing the need for future research, and consideration.
Author: Kuflik, Nathan
Language: English
Topic: Music Therapy and Health
Subfield: Social Psychology
Field: Psychology
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7202009956