Quarterly Member Spotlight

2025, Quarter 1

Describe your career as a music therapist—education, populations served, etc.
I am a UGA alumnus having studied music and psychology, and got my Master's/Equivalency at FSU right after. I have been practicing MT since 2016 when I graduated. I completed my internship at Tallahassee Memorial HC-Behavioral Health Center. I have primarily served the mental health population in the public health sector. I have worked with adults for a county psychiatric hospital in California, and now currently serve adolescents at a psychiatric residential hospital. In addition, I am currently working with elementary-aged students with various needs at a private music studio providing adaptive music lessons. Along with my daily tasks as a practicing MT-BC, I supervise MT interns. This year, I have had the honor to serve on the CBMT Practice Analysis Committee.

What brought you to the field of music therapy or why did you decide to pursue music therapy as a profession?
For me, marrying the two interests of music and psychology/health was a perfect opportunity to explore what music therapy could offer! It was one of those moments where once I found out about music therapy, I thought would be an excellent way to maintain my passion of helping others in health through music.

What suggestions do you have for novice music therapists?
The most important suggestions I'd give to novice music therapists are: to always keep an open mind to learn and collaborate; and to be patient with the changes/progress you hope to see within your clients.

What are some of your favorite resources (Websites, books, blogs, journals, etc.)?
The ones everyone else uses! YouTube, Pinterest, TikTok

Tell us about one of your most favorite moments of being a music therapist.
In a lyric analysis group intervention on substance use, I witnessed teenage boys talk and support each other with minimal prompts. They were able to get honest with themselves and others, and have a cohesive discussion amongst themselves. This was magical because many of the boys in the group were having peer conflicts with each other daily!

Describe a challenge you have had in your career and what you did to overcome it.
If I had to pick, I'd say the biggest challenge I had was dealing with burnout on/off. Working in mental health, I learned all the challenges my clients face that are truly beyond theirs and our locus of control. It was grappling with how the resources we provide them as allied health professionals may not be enough compared to what little access to resources they have realistically, beyond discharge. I am currently and continuously overcoming it by having honest conversations and discussions with peers and colleagues.

What goals do you have for the next few years?
Continue building music therapy internship program; work in hospice population.

Do you have hobbies outside of music?
I like to walk, exercise, read, and find new experiences to do with my family.

Why are you a member of MTAG?
The MT community is tight-knit and it's so important to bridge those connections and connect so that we can continue to build our profession.