Since 5th grade I have always been passionate about music. I first started playing clarinet, and then of course in high school I participated in every band and marching band that I could. I was even able to take a music theory class which opened up an entirely new world of what music was to me.
Being in high school, I naturally started considering possible careers and majors to go to college for. I have always felt that I am a nurturer and I have a passion for helping others. The health care industry always seemed like a good fit for me. I thought about the possibilities of becoming a nurse, or dietitian, or physical therapist. But all it took was just one comment from my band director for me to ultimately decide on what my career was going to be…
Once I heard the words “music therapy” I was fascinated. I ended up writing an English research paper on the career of music therapy and after researching what music therapy was, I was hooked.
We all know how powerful music is. It can uplift us, it can energize us, and it connects all of us. Many people say that music is the universal language. Everyone may have their own musical preferences, but we all understand music and can relate to it. Music also motivates us, and helps us express ourselves where words may fail. And anyone, no matter their abilities, can participate in music.
What I love about music therapy is that it helps people in so many different ways socially, emotionally, cognitively, and physically. Music Therapy focuses on making a successful and non-threatening therapeutic experience for any individual, no matter their ability.
I absolutely love being a music therapist. It’s empowering to see a client achieve something in music therapy that they never knew they could do, or to see music bring a person suffering from Dementia back to life. Being a music therapist has its challenges, I know I will always have to advocate for myself and what music therapy is, but not many people can say they love their job and look forward to going to work every single day.
I’ve started this blog to share and connect with other music therapists, non-music therapist, and possible future music therapists. I hope to inspire others with my experiences, ideas, and conversations about music therapy.
Music touches the mind, body, and soul.
-Courtney
Treating With Music and Melody 