Music therapists’ experiences of conducting music therapy with unaccompanied refugee children: A qualitative study

Introduction Music therapy is recognized as a valuable intervention for supporting unaccompanied refugee children. Prior research highlights its role in trauma-informed care, social inclusion, and cultural participation. This study examines the lived experiences of music therapists working with unaccompanied refugee children in reception centres and refugee camps, as well as the way they address challenges and systemic barriers in their work.Method A qualitative, semi-structured interview design was used including six music therapists working in European and U.S. refugee settings. Data were collected through digital and in-person interviews and analysed using an inductive-deductive thematic approach. The analysis was conducted through coding, thematic analysis, and integration of theoretical perspectives.Results The experiences of the music therapists regarding establishing safety, relational connection, life balance, and purpose were crucial in developing music therapy practices in their contexts. They faced emotional and professional challenges, such as high workloads and a lack of structured support. Systemic barriers, including limited work-positions, heavy workload and unsustainability of crisis-driven interventions further hindered practice. Therapists emphasized the need for structured frameworks, interdisciplinary collaboration, supervision, and self-care strategies to sustain their work and ensure the well-being of both children and practitioners.Discussion The study underscores the necessity of integrating music therapy into broader, trauma-informed, and culturally sensitive care models. Recommendations include developing structured, participatory approaches that empower children, ensuring institutional support for music therapists, and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration. Addressing these factors can enhance the sustainability and impact of music therapy for unaccompanied refugee children, ultimately strengthening their right to cultural participation and emotional well-being.