What is most intriguing about becoming a music therapist?

Written by: Molli Smith, Music Therapy Intern

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Image credit: http://www.creativeconnectionsmt.com/learnmore

I began my journey to become a music therapist with little knowledge of what exactly I was getting into. The minute I first read about music therapy, I just knew I wanted to be a part of it. Getting the opportunity to sit in on an actual music therapy session, however, really sealed the deal, and my passion for the field began to grow.

Music has always been my creative outlet. I was really shy as a child and never felt comfortable sharing my thoughts and feelings with other people. Music was my way to do so; It provided me with a sense of comfort and peace through the obstacles I faced. I knew I wanted to give that same experience to other people some day, to share the power music has to aid in our self-expression and ability to connect in other ways. 

What intrigues me the most about becoming a music therapist is the positive impact it can have on other people. There’s nothing more rewarding than seeing someone light up whenever you begin to play a song they recognize, witnessing someone reach their goals or succeed in something new, and fostering connections through musical interaction. Knowing that your work has made a difference, however big or small, makes this field so inspiring. What is also intriguing about music therapy is that there is always more to learn. No risks of having a boring job here! There are plenty of opportunities to learn new songs or discover new genres, how music therapy may work with different diagnoses, new research in the field, different intervention techniques, and even expanding awareness of different cultural backgrounds. It’s nice to stick to routines that work for you, but I also enjoy switching things up and trying something new. Not only does it keep me from feeling stagnant, it’s a great way to keep evolving and improving my skills to be the best music therapist I can be.  

There are many layers to being a music therapist that are not always seen on surface level. I am so excited to continue uncovering those layers throughout my time as an intern here at Piedmont Music Therapy. I am reminded each day of why I chose to pursue this career and how much I enjoy the work I am doing. That’s a feeling I'd never thought I’d get to experience, so I am beyond grateful to have found my passion.  

Check out more personal stories about music therapy here.​

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