I’m a board certified music therapist, graduating from IU Indianapolis and obtaining my music therapy certification in 2024. My first bachelor’s degree was obtained in Psychology through Indiana University in 1989. I pursued my music therapy journey a few years ago because I wanted to combine my love of music with my previous life experiences helping others achieve their life goals and quality of life in the behavioral health field. My music therapy clinical experience includes completing an internship supporting individuals with developmental, neurological and intellectual challenges. Additionally, I have experience through clinical practicums in both hospital and home-based music therapy environments. Prior to beginning my music therapy work, I gained experiences supporting individuals with autism, behavioral and emotional challenges and dementia.

I’m passionate about helping others pursue their goals and aspirations—and work hard to facilitate growth opportunities that inspire joy, creativity, skillfulness, and passion. My therapeutic approach is person-centered and relationship-based. I believe everyone I come into contact with is unique and has their own strengths, challenges and capacities. As a music therapist, I view it as my responsibility to meet them where they are at–in that moment, listen to what they are communicating they desire and need, and then partner with them using music-based interventions to support their achievement of the goals most important to them. To ensure I have access to the knowledge, approaches and tools I need to best support those I serve, I’m an avid pursuer of information in the form of research literature, peer consultations and podcasts about music therapeutic approaches.

I find my work as a music therapist at Mainstay very satisfying! When I’m not supporting people through Mainstay, I still love providing piano lessons for children and young adults using a person-centered approach to teaching piano skills. I also enjoy spending time with friends and family–especially my new grandson. My hobbies include gardening, honing my musical skills, enjoying a hot cup of coffee and taking care of my fur-babies.