This master’s thesis examines music-based interventions (MBIs) for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). ASD refers to neurodevelopmental conditions characterized by difficulties in social communication and interaction, as well as restricted and repetitive behaviors, interests, or activities. Due to the communicative, social, emotional, and interactive qualities of music, MBIs are frequently used in working with individuals with ASD, as they help alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life. MBIs encompass interventions involving music or musical experiences that aim to address any dimension of health or support human development (Robb, 2025).
The aim of the study was to investigate the state of MBIs for individuals with ASD in Slovenia from the perspective of their practitioners. We explored how practitioners describe their work, their training, the challenges and positive aspects they encounter, and their vision for the future development of MBIs in this field. The qualitative study included nine professionals (music therapists, music educators, and arts therapy practitioners) who participated in semi-structured interviews. The collected data were analyzed using inductive thematic analysis.
The findings show that practitioners follow professional guidelines and adapt interventions to the needs of individuals with ASD. Most participants consider themselves adequately trained for their work, yet they also emphasize the need for additional specialized knowledge and the importance of experiential learning. They report positive experiences but also point to insufficient systemic organization in the field—particularly in terms of accessibility, institutional support, and formal recognition of the professions. For the future, participants expressed a desire for improved systemic regulation, broader access to MBIs, and greater opportunities for knowledge exchange and collaboration.
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