In the light of uncertainty

Music therapy is a treatment that uses the combination of music, science, and communication to achieve therapeutic goals. Because it is a relatively new discipline most research conducted on music therapy addresses the complexity of the new field and its relation to medical and art fields. In the prevailing scientific society, the field is challenged by the notions of legitimisation within the frame of other medical fields. Hence, the history and the current state of the music therapy field influence the professional identity construction of music therapists. This research aims to look into the relationship between the present state of the music therapy field in Lithuania and the Netherlands and overview professional identity development in educational institutions. Hence, the main research question is as follows: To what extent does the current state of music therapy field influence the development of a music therapists’ professional identity? In order to answer the research question a method of constructivist grounded theory was used. In addition, a hybrid utilisation of constructivist GT together with Bourdieu’s field theory as a theoretical framework was adopted to answer the research question. The data was collected through nine semi-structured in-depth interviews, five days of participant observation and document analysis. Initial and focused coding of data with additional information from research memos was used to conceptualise findings into the theoretical themes of studied phenomena. The study showed that professional identity development is influenced by context specific medical paradigm that music therapy follows. The upcoming therapists in both countries reflected on external pressures on the field. The main struggles of the field were identified as political and economic changes, scientification and clinification of the field(s), and split inside the therapist community. Hence, based on the external pressures, field(s) seek(s) to identify themselves with more established medical fields to gain a better public image, influence policies in relation to job opportunities, and feel equal to members in the healthcare system. Consequently, the professional identity development is affected by a focus on science-based research and the scientification of the field. It implies that the primary purpose shifts from the ground values and purpose of the profession to the process of legitimisation.