Music Therapy Moments III

Written by Gretchen Benner

While listening to 'I Will Survive' Saves Marginalized People A Spot On The Dance Floor and sipping a decaf Americano.

​This post continues on the theme of Music Therapy Moments written from the view of continuing education and service as a music therapist. As the American Music Therapy Association Conference winds down, it helps to reflect upon the past few days of meetings.

Minneapolis, MN was a welcoming city with many transportation options - it was reminiscent of getting around the city while living in Pittsburgh, PA! 

Within the annual conference, there was a theme of integrity, education and awareness.

The virtual panel offering that the American Music Therapy Association Board of Directors charged the Workforce Development and Retention Committee to organize went really well, with tremendous team work from the Local Planning Committee. In case you missed the streaming, here’s a link to the 35 minute video Insight Into The Music Therapy Profession including questions and answers on studying to become a music therapist.

Hearing colleagues provide feedback about professional codes of conduct, ethics and working hierarchy of the membership body was important. Being able to connect with fellow MTBCs in private practice and business ownership continues to be valuable. Learning about colleagues developments with regards to research based initiatives and practice models were awesome. Regrouping from clinical work and making time to get caught up on managing clinic and studio needs was helpful.

The national conference also marks an opportunity to expand our inventory of supplies as services grow in the community of Greater Charlotte. Thankfully we purchased more large drums from West Music, a reliable company that employs music therapists and music educators offering quality instruments at affordable prices.

I am thankful for the space to gather in service of our profession and eager to hear continued strides towards integrity within the work force. Thanks for reading the latest blog post and comments below are welcome. Wishing folks a peaceful, holiday week.
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