The Theory and Practice of Vocal Psychotherapy: Songs of the Self Paperback – January 6, 2009

This book isn't just for music therapists! Dr. Diane Austin describes her evolution as a music therapist and her creation of a technique she developed called "Vocal Psychotherapy" as if she were having a conversation with her readers, making clear references to psychoanalytic theory, her own experiences in Jungian analysis and her growth as a therapist. She shares her poems and case notes while describing techniques she uses helping her clients find their own "Songs of the Self" (her subtitle) Rarely does one find such open descriptions of the uses of observation of the client along with a therapist's use of her own counter-transferential experiences. For music therapists this may become a classic. For those of us in the field of psychotherapy without a musical background, it is a reminder of how rich voice is in our work, our clients' voices of course, but also our own. D. Gordon-Brown, LCSW

Diane Austin is a master teacher and brilliant music psychotherapist. Human beings, both powerful and weak, struggle to find their voices: their space on the planet. This easy to understand book is absolutely filled with insights and passion for humans struggling to find themselves through their voices. Professional singers, and non-musicians alike, can benefit greatly from Austin's techniques. Sadly, the publisher has priced the book higher than other books on singing and psych. This book is very special and worth the extra dollars, but I am sure the high price scares buyers away. One Man's Music

This book gives an impressive look into music therapy and the specialized practice of vocal psychotherapy. By providing real-life examples from this highly expressive work, Diane Austin opens the conversation of what music therapists and clients can do together simply by existing in a common space with our voices. This book opened my mind and allowed me to pursue in-person training with Dr. Austin. Highly recommend this book. It will change you and your work.

Diane Austin "The Theory and Practice of Vocal Psychotherapy" Songs of the Self is one of the most real authentic therapy books I have read. I highly recommend it for therapists, Music therapists, people who are interested in becoming a therapist and clients. Having been a business analyst I always enjoy understanding how things and business work. This book explains the process of therapy, and the relationship between the client and therapist better than any therapy book I have read.

Excellent material, you won’t be disappointed

Although I am not a music therapist, I learned a lot about myself from this book. I also found it moving and fascinating. The case studies were so vivid they made me feel like I was in the room with the therapist and client.