Credentials:

• Bachelor of Music in Music Therapy (Berklee College of Music)

Populations specialized with:

• Pediatrics and adults with multiple disabilities and complex conditions (ASD, cerebral palsy, genetic disorders, TBI)

Special Skills/Related Training:

• Heartsaver CPR AED certified
• Piano and theory training (RCM Grade 9)

Personal History:

I grew up in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan where artistry through music and dance was a significant part of my life. I studied classical piano at the Royal Conservatory of Music participating in local music festivals. Looking toward college, I knew I wanted to stay connected with music, but I hated the nerves of performing. Influenced by my parent's work at the family-owned pharmacy and could see myself working in healthcare. I learned about music therapy which seemed like the perfect path to meld both influences.

Professional History:

I completed my music therapy internship at the Center for Discovery, working with pediatrics and adults with multiple disabilities and complex conditions. At the center, I received training in clinical improvisation and in-services that evoke responses and support expressive freedom that inspire me to continue this work within the therapeutic process between the therapist and client. Over the past couple of years, I have been exploring a psychodynamic perspective of music therapy. This approach has allowed me to analyze the significance of sociocultural identities in music therapy while focusing on celebrating and supporting strengths and abilities.

I am currently working towards a Master's in Music Therapy with a counselling concentration from Slippery Rock University. I am passionate about advancing the work of music therapy as an anti-oppressive practice with a focus on supporting identity work (culture, gender identity, sexuality, class, race, age, religion, ability).

Work Philosophy:

I view music therapy through a person-centered lens to foster emotional regulation, self-empowerment, and understanding of self. I believe in a team approach to treatment in collaboration with other wellness professionals to best support the client’s successes and quality of life. Every person has an innate sense of music, and as a music therapist, I am dedicated to providing individualized care to nurture the client’s authentic potential in music. In my experience, facilitating sessions that are spontaneously improvised demonstrates that authenticity and connection evoke client creativity and responses through expressive freedom that inspires the therapeutic process. Music therapy encourages communication through the common language of music that strengthens a relationship between the therapist and client based on trust and vulnerability. I am wholeheartedly committed to music therapy as an anti-oppressive practice to support people of all identities.

Personal Life Philosophy:

I believe in connection through authenticity, where relationships are fostered through vulnerability and an openness to gain a deeper understanding of yourself and others around you.

Favourite Quote:

“To be beautiful means to be yourself. You don’t need to be accepted by others. You need to accept yourself.”― Thich Nhat Hanh