National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE) Practice Exam

What type of therapy might incorporate music as a tool with clients?

1. Play therapy

2. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

3. Gestalt Therapy

4. Dialectical Behavior Therapy

The correct answer is: Play therapy

Play therapy is a therapeutic approach that often incorporates various tools and creative methods, including music, to facilitate expression and communication, particularly with children. Music can serve as a medium for clients to convey emotions or thoughts that they may struggle to articulate verbally. In play therapy, the use of music can create a safe space where clients can explore feelings and experiences, enhancing their ability to engage therapeutically. The other approaches mentioned typically focus on different methodologies. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy emphasizes structured techniques aimed at identifying and changing negative thought patterns and behaviors, without a strong emphasis on creative expression like music. Gestalt Therapy, while it does emphasize awareness and experiential techniques, does not specifically focus on music as a primary tool. Similarly, Dialectical Behavior Therapy is a skills-based approach aimed at treating individuals with emotional dysregulation and utilizes mindfulness and behavioral skills rather than creative tools like music. Therefore, play therapy stands out as the most suitable and recognized approach for incorporating music as a therapeutic tool with clients.