Content and Structure
Module 1: Theoretical and evidence-based background in neonatal music therapy
- Basic developmental neurological and psychological knowledge
- Observing and understanding premature babies
- Psychological background knowledge on the well-being of parents
- Listening to, understanding and involving parents
- In-depth knowledge of the intensive care environment
- Insight into creative music therapy (theory, methodology and practice)
- Latest global evidence base in neonatal music therapy
Scope: 16 hours, spread over 3 consecutive days
Date/Time: Friday, February 6, 2026 (afternoon) to Sunday, February 8, 2026 (noon)
Location: Zurich University of the Arts, Toni-Areal. Participation on-site is required.
→ If Module 1 has already been completed as part of the training ‘First sounds: Rhythm, Breath & Lullaby Tier 1’ or as the pre-conference training of the European music therapy conference, this can be credited to the further education programme.
Module 2: Practical insights & hands-on training with video-based case studies
- Clinic observation in small groups and carrying out your therapy sequence under supervision at the University Hospital Zurich or a partner clinic
- Analysing and reflecting on the therapy sequences in small groups and in self-study with in-depth self-reflection
Scope: One day of observation (8 hours); 8 hours of case analysis, reflection and discussion in small groups and self-organisation (total 16 hours)
Possible clinic dates at the Neonatology University Hospital Zurich:
- March, 3, 2026
- March, 31, 2026
- April, 14, 2026
- April, 28, 2026
Date/time at partner clinics: to be determined jointly
Location: Neonatology University Hospital Zurich or partner hospital
Module 3: Individual Case study supervision & and implementation strategies
- Individual case study presentation with in-depth (self-)reflection, supervision & intervision
- Assessment, documentation, implementation and evaluation of music therapy, giving special attention to Creative Music Therapy
- Goals, resources, strategies, barriers, and challenges of daily practice with close focus on integrative family-centered care
- Pitfalls and cultural sensitivity
- Community work
Scope: 16 hours, spread over 3 consecutive days
Date/time: Friday, July 3, 2026 (afternoon) to Sunday, July 5, 2026 (noon)
Location: Zurich University of the Arts, Toni-Areal. Participation on-site is required.
The course will be conducted in English.