National overview of the use of Augmentative and Alternative Communication by music therapists: professional profile, clinical demands, and challenges
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.33871/2317417X.2026.23.12008Keywords:
Music Therapy, Augmentative and Alternative Communication, Professional Profile, Professional TrainingAbstract
This study aimed to outline the national landscape of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) use by music therapists in Brazil, investigating professional profiles, clinical demands, and the challenges faced. The methodology consisted of an observational, cross-sectional, and exploratory survey study conducted with 181 music therapists through a questionnaire. The results revealed a predominantly female profile (69.6%), aged 30 to 49 years, and residing in the Southeast region (58.6%). Regarding clinical practice, AAC use was heterogeneous: while a proportion of participants used AAC resources frequently, 19.3% reported using them rarely and 14.9% had never used them. A significant training gap in AAC was identified within music therapy, as 73.5% of participants reported having no additional training in the area. The main difficulties reported were a lack of knowledge on how to use and personalize AAC resources within a musical context. The study mapped AAC use by music therapists in Brazil and highlighted important educational gaps, despite the frequent presence of individuals with Complex Communication Needs (CCN) in music therapy practice. Limitations include low representation from the North and Northeast regions. It is recommended that AAC be incorporated into music therapy curricula and that further studies examine its impact on the autonomy and social participation of individuals with CCN in collaboration with this specialty.
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