The current state of music therapy in Costa Rica

Using an ethnographic approach, the author immersed herself for over two years in the community of music therapists who have worked in Costa Rica, leading to the emergence of two research questions: (a) What are the cultural considerations of practicing music therapy in Costa Rica? And (b), What challenges do music therapists face when attempting to practice music therapy in Costa Rica? These questions were addressed through qualitative coding of structured interviews and online correspondence with seven music therapists. Priorities for the future of music therapy in Costa Rica include the creation of the country’s first music therapy degree program and the incorporation of music therapy into a professional association. As a music therapist with dual citizenship in Costa Rica and the United States, the author hopes that this study will serve as the foundation for developing new music therapy opportunities in Costa Rica from a perspective of cultural humility.