Quarterly Member Spotlight

2026, Quarter 1

Describe your career as a music therapist—education, populations served, etc.
I studied Music Therapy at Georgia College & State University from 2019 to 2023. I received my Bachelor’s Degree in Music Therapy and completed my clinical internship at Therabeat, Inc. in December 2023. I have been working as a music therapist at Therabeat, Inc. for two years. We are a pediatric clinic, but I have had the privilege of working with clients of all ages. I primarily treat young children and adolescents. I have also gained experience in program proposal, event organization, social networking, and more through my additional roles as Program Director and Communications Director.

What brought you to the field of music therapy or why did you decide to pursue music therapy as a profession?
I first heard about music therapy when I was in high school. I have always had a passion for music, psychology, and working with others, so I felt that music therapy was the perfect field for me. Before college, I shadowed a medical music therapist and immediately fell in love with the profession

What suggestions do you have for novice music therapists?
Starting as a new professional can feel intimidating. I think it’s important to advocate for yourself and not be afraid to ask questions. Connecting with other professionals is a great way to gain new ideas for working with populations that are unfamiliar to you. In our clinic, we have physical, occupational, and speech therapy. Most of my clients receive services from all or most of these disciplines, so I have had the privilege of observing their sessions and learning from them. I recommend connecting with professionals from other disciplines to expand your “toolbox”. If you have a client who receives multiple therapies, ask families if they are comfortable connecting you with their providers. This can allow you to work as an interdisciplinary team to support the client in reaching their goals across all disciplines.

What are some of your favorite resources (Websites, books, blogs, journals, etc.)?
I utilize Music For Kiddos, Music Therapy Joy, and the Bear Paw Creek instagram page for new ideas and songs. For electronic music interventions, I use “Swick’s Classroom” or “Whack Em All” Youtube channels for boom whacker songs and the “Chrome Music Lab” website for music learning. Kindermusik curriculums are also great for music interventions, songs, and movements for specific age ranges that target developmental milestones. For research studies and articles, I look to the Journal of Music Therapy. 

Tell us about one of your most favorite moments of being a music therapist.
One of my favorite moments was when a parent witnessed her non-verbal child speak during a music therapy session. One of his goal areas was expressive communication, so we were working on signing more in American Sign Language (ASL). I was vocalizing the phrase, “I want more,” while signing more, and after several auditory prompts, he both verbalized and signed more. Sharing that breakthrough with his mother made the moment absolutely unforgettable!

Describe a challenge you have had in your career and what you did to overcome it.
A challenge I have had to face is losing clients due to lack of funding. With music therapy not being covered by insurance, we often have to apply for scholarships and grant opportunities for our clients. There are many wonderful non-profits that have been generous to award funding to several of my clients. The Duet Project and the First Hand Foundation have been blessings! 

What goals do you have for the next few years?
In the next few years, I would like to become certified in Neurologic Music Therapy (NMT). I believe that these techniques would be beneficial for many clients I work with. Another goal is to present at a SER-AMTA regional conference. 

Do you have hobbies outside of music?
Outside of music, I enjoy hiking, yoga, trying new coffee shops, going to the gym, playing pickleball, being in nature, traveling, and spending time with friends and family. I am hoping to travel to Europe in 2026! 

Why are you a member of MTAG?
I joined MTAG in the hopes of building connections with other professionals in my state and gaining access to more opportunities for professional growth. I am passionate about advocating for music therapy and enjoy seeing the impact associations such as MTAG have been making.

What else would you like us to know about you?
I am honored to be a part of this profession! I am still a young professional, and am excited to continue to grow and experience new challenges.