I Am Safe and I Am Strong: Understanding Adverse Childhood Experiences and Building Resilience through Trauma-Informed Music Therapy

Many children have adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), including abuse and neglect, putting them at greater risk for physical and mental health concerns. Developmental systems research suggests that there are a number of protective and promotive factors related to resilience that can be embedded within music therapy practice with all children. This chapter provides an overview of research on ACEs, descriptions of key components of resilience in child development and trauma-informed care, a case example using elements of child-directed musical play and following Perry's sequence of engagement, and recommendations for music therapists, providing an approach to trauma-informed music therapy rooted in multicultural and social justice praxis.