Music has always been a thread in my life—helping me build community, confidence, and comfort. When I discovered that I could use music to directly improve people’s lives, I was hooked. But it wasn’t until I stepped into my first clinical experiences as a student that I truly saw the transformative power of music therapy.

One of my earliest “aha” moments was in a memory care facility. A woman with Alzheimer’s disease, confused and disoriented, lit up the moment she heard her favorite song, “You Are My Sunshine.” As I sang, her eyes widened, her head lifted, and she sang every word perfectly. That song—her own nickname—reconnected her with her life memories and sense of identity. Years later, I’ve witnessed countless moments like this, and every day continues to reveal new connections through music.

The Challenges Music Therapists Face

Being a music therapist is incredibly rewarding—but it isn’t without challenges. I tend to “do it all,” and burnout is never far away, especially when working with heavy cases like trauma, end-of-life care, or mental health. During those moments, I lean on my support system: colleagues, mentors, and fellow music therapists. I know not everyone has that kind of community, and that isolation can make this work even harder.

Why Music Therapy Matters

Music therapy is not just an augmentative tool—it’s essential. Music connects in ways words cannot, bridging the emotional, cognitive, and physical aspects of the human experience. I think of music as a door: it opens opportunities for connection in a way that feels safe, especially for those who feel disconnected or unsafe. It allows people to express themselves, process emotions, and heal in a deeply intuitive way.

The Vision Behind MusicWorx Academy

At MusicWorx, we’ve trained over 197 interns, served the San Diego community for 37 years, and built a network of music therapists who share knowledge, mentorship, and support. With MusicWorx Academy, we’re launching a new phase: making continuing education, resources, and live supervision accessible from anywhere in the world. Our goal is simple—to provide a vibrant, supportive space where music therapists can grow, connect, and thrive.

Join the Community

You are not alone. Whether you’re a music therapist, a student, or someone exploring music for wellness, MusicWorx Academy is here to support you. Connect with peers, access resources, and continue your growth in a community that celebrates the transformative power of music.

Join our MusicWorx Academy community group today and start your journey.