It’s easy to feel alone as a music therapist, especially if you are the only MT in your area. We are constantly advocating for ourselves and facing challenges. It’s important to surround yourself with people and resources that support you and what you do.
The past few months of being a new professional have been difficult. I’ve faced challenges of finding myself as a music therapist, believing in my abilities, and taking on new roles. As someone who tends to dwell on what I could have done better, it’s been important for me to have people who call me out on this and then build me up.
I’m lucky to have an amazing support system of family, friends, and coworkers who are always ready to listen.
Family
I’m thankful to have a family who is fully supportive of my decision to become a music therapist; in fact, my mom is the one who directed me in this career path! My family is also always eager to learn more about what I do as a music therapist. Whether I’ve had the best or worst day, I know my family is just a phone call away.
Friends
I have two amazing people in my life who I can always count on: my fiancé, Lane, and my music therapy friend, Heather. Lane is studying to be a music educator and will be student teaching in the fall. I always enjoy discussing music therapy and music ed with him. Though they are different in how music is used, we can bounce ideas off of and learn from one another.
My friend, Heather, and I have basically been going through the same stages of life at the same time. Both of us recently finished up our internships and both are newly engaged! It’s been so nice to discuss music therapy and wedding things with her. I’m so excited to see her at the GLR Conference this weekend!
MTC Team
I am lucky to not be the only music therapist in the Springfield area; in fact, I am one of a team of 5 music therapists! The music therapists and the whole MTC team are extremely supportive of the work everyone does. As an added bonus, the music therapists have an hour each week reserved specifically for supervision. However, I know that my fellow music therapists are always open to discuss things outside of that time as well!
I am blessed to have three amazing support systems in my life. What support systems or resources do you cherish? Give them a shoutout in the comments!
