An interview with an Australian music therapy clinician, researcher, and educator on her experiences of music therapy and hopes for the future of the profession
As the Australian Music Therapy Association (AMTA) celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2025, it facilitated an opportunity for leading Australian music therapist, educator, and researcher, Alison Short, to reflect on her career and the profession. While being interviewed by music therapist Annie Heiderscheit, Short shares career highlights and intersections, and what has sustained her decades-long dedication to the profession.
Beyond her personal experiences, Short discusses the challenges and successes music therapists across Australia face in supporting one another and the profession. As the Canadian Association of Music Therapists (CAMT) nears its 50th anniversary in 2027, her reflections echo themes that may resonate with or spawn self-reflection among many music therapists in Canada. For instance, the difficulty in establishing national organizations and unity due to the expansive geography of the nation, and the strengthening and unifying power of clinicians’ and organizations’ commitments to ethical practice, creativity, diversity, and strong leadership in governance. If you are inspired by these reflections to read Short’s full interview, including her hopes for the future of the music therapy profession in Australia and globally, it is available at this link .
Published : February 27, 2026