Anglia Ruskin University

A new publication co-edited by Helen Odell-Miller, Professor of Music Therapy, was launched on 25 January 2013. Forensic Music Therapy - A Treatment for Men and Women in Secure Hospital Settings, edited by Stella Compton Dickinson, Helen Odell-Miller and John Adlam and published by Jessica Kingsley Publishers, demonstrates diverse and innovative approaches to music therapy, which include live, improvised and pre-composed music, from music therapy teams working in secure treatment settings.

The book launch was well attended as Dr Frankie Williams, Visiting Research Fellow at Anglia Ruskin University, describes:

"A well balanced trio of editors, John a consultant psychotherapist, Stella a psychotherapist and research lead in Nottingham NHS Forensic Services and a PhD student at Anglia Ruskin, and Professor of Music Therapy at Anglia Ruskin Helen Odell-Miller, introduced us to this ground breaking book on Music Therapy in forensic settings.

"Burgh House, Hampstead created a warm and inviting venue for the gathering of practitioners, academics and musicians. Stella is a professional oboist and there were many of her colleagues present who also played for us - solo oboe to jazz!"

The book covers the experiences of patients, therapists, supervisors, managers and multidisciplinary teams, giving readers a rich and privileged insight into an area rarely seen or discussed. It examines settings from large institutions such as Broadmoor and Rampton, medium secure units, high support services, low secure psychiatric units and community services.

Stella thanked many people for all the work they do in the field on a daily basis, and particularly the supervision and support she had received from Anglia Ruskin and Professor Odell-Miller in particular. Other authors who also studied at Anglia Ruskin include Philip Hughes, Petra Hervey and Rebecca Roberts.

Estela Welldon ends her preface with: "Whether or not you are musically oriented, reading this book will both enlighten and enchant you."

For more information please contact Professor Helen Odell-Miller.

Please click images to enlarge.

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