Research estimates that 75 - 90% of autistic children learn and acquire language through a gestalt processing style. As awareness of and access to music therapy continues to increase in Australia, it is imperative that music therapists intending to work with neurodivergent individuals develop an understanding of gestalt language processing and commit to an innovative approach moving forward. This will strengthen the continued promotion of a multidisciplinary allied health approach, where music therapists work collaboratively with speech language pathologists, occupational therapists, and specialist educators providers to support the development of communication, language and speech skills.

This presentation explores the characteristics and functions of gestalt processing, the impact this has on speech development and language acquisition during childhood, and highlights episodic memory and echopraxia as key factors for consideration. It discusses the intrinsic benefits of music as a medium through which to encourage language development specifically in the context of music therapy with a gestalt language processor.

The impacts of a gestalt processing style on an individual’s music therapy program, and the music therapy practice implications are analysed and presented through case studies. Through these, the benefits of an intentional facilitation of routine-based sessions, the development of tailored transition songs, the incorporation of interactive call-and-responses, and the importance of validation and collaboration within the therapeutic environment are demonstrated and discussed. The interrelation of gestalt language processing and Augmentative and Alternative Communication is also explored through clinical examples.

A post-humanistic lens is applied in discussing the importance of prioritising individual communication styles over measurable language outcomes and clinical efficacy, throughout the lifespan. Suggestions are made to ensure that the communication style of a gestalt processor is validated in the music therapy space, and harnessed for their own social and emotional benefit, rather than to fit into a stereotypical perception of effective communication.