In recent decades, the global diagnosis of children with special needs has significantly increased, leading to a rising interest in non-medical interventions as healthier alternatives. Music therapy is widely accepted for its evidence-based practice and efficacy in this field. However, the predominance of Western-centric education in music therapy since the mid-twentieth century has resulted in practitioners from non-Western backgrounds being heavily influenced by Western beliefs and values. As music therapy is increasingly practiced in diverse cultural contexts, particularly among children with special needs, it is imperative to adapt Western-based practices to align with various cultural frameworks.

This presentation will feature four registered music therapists (RMTs) from diverse international backgrounds, who will explore the integration of Western music therapy practices into non-Western cultural settings. They will present two case studies from Asian contexts, highlighting how music therapy was perceived differently, how it was adapted to fit cultural expectations, and the challenges encountered due to conflicting cultural values. The presenters will discuss strategies for balancing differing cultural expectations, insights gained from their experiences, and the implications of unique social environments on the expectations and outcomes of music therapy, contrasting these with Western practices.