Canadian Music Therapy: Recent Episodes
Beyond the Studio
How are music therapists changing the lives of people in Canada? What is the latest research and trends? Join music therapist, Adrienne Pringle and business leader, Cathy Thompson as they connect with fascinating guests for conversations about the world of music therapy – from research to thought leadership. Guests share their stories about the impact of music therapy to improve our health and well-being.
In this episode, we are speaking with Shona Pottinger about what it’s like to offer music therapy services in the smallest province in Canada, Prince Edward Island. Shona tells us more about internship opportunities with Singing Sands Music Therapy and her journey to becoming a music therapist.
Here is a little more about Shona:
Shona founded Singing Sands Music Therapy in PEI in 2010 and has experience working with clients from ages 24 months to 100 years who have a variety of diagnoses, including Dementia, Alzheimer's, ABI, Stroke, Parkinson's Disease, Cerebral Palsy, Down Syndrome, Autism, and Global Developmental Delay. Shona completed her undergraduate degree at Acadia University, after which she undertook a 7-month internship position at Parkstone Enhanced Care in Halifax, Nova Scotia. While contracting her services to long-term care facilities in the Charlottetown area for both group and individual sessions, Shona has continued to develop a successful practice. Continuing education is also an important part of Shona's commitment to providing quality music therapy services. She has completed multiple workshops ranging from Mental Health First Aid to behaviour modification approaches, as well as attended regional, national, and international music therapy conferences.
Learn more about Beyond the Studio’s services for psychotherapy and music therapy along with supervision.
Beyond the Studio and the Canadian Music Therapy Podcast were founded by Adrienne Pringle and Cathy Thompson.
Adrienne is a Registered Psychotherapist and Certified Music Therapist with over years of clinical experience working as a music therapist in hospital palliative care, and hospice. She currently works in private practice with Beyond the Studio and CHM Therapy, as an educator and supervisor with Concordia and Wilfrid Laurier Universities. She serves on the Board of Directors for the Canadian Music Therapy Fund and is a past President of the Canadian Association of Music Therapists. Adrienne co-founded Beyond the Studio, Sing it Girls! and The Canadian Music Therapy Podcast with Cathy Thompson in 2013. Adrienne's clinical work is focused in mental health, wellness care, bereavement support, hospice palliative care, chronic illness, and using voice, song and music to support emotional and physical health across the lifespan.
She created the Singing Well bereavement support group, her research in collaboration with Concordia university is published in the Summer 2018 issue of Bereavement Care. Her most recent publication, "Reflections on the Canadian Music Therapy Podcast: The First 40," can be found in the Canadian Journal of Music Therapy, 2023.
Contact Adrienne for Supervision
Cathy is a leader in business development across Canada. She is passionate about helping people discover their own talents and gifts in the areas of personal and professional development. She partnered with Adrienne to establish Beyond the Studio because of the vision of the organization. To nurture a love of music in all clients and students. Music is such a critical part of our world and Beyond the Studio offers a gateway in which people can experience more of it, through therapy and lessons. She has seen first hand the joy and milestones that can be reached through music therapy.
I'm excited that we are able to help more people through our psychotherapy services launched in the fall of 2023.
Author of:
The Dandelion: Secrets to Growing Your Successful Business from the Ground Up
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Publications:
"Reflections on the Canadian Music Therapy Podcast: The First 40," can be found in the Canadian Journal of Music Therapy, 2023.
Thompson, C., Girls Talk : An anti-stigma program for young women to promote understanding of and awareness about depression: Facilitator’s manual, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health. Canada.
In this episode, we are speaking with Suzanne Caron about her unique journey in becoming a music therapist and how the National Music Therapy Institute, a not for profit, was established. Suzanne shares details about the pilot projects that she is currently working on through the institute, along with the dynamic website they have developed to support all music therapists. Finally, she shares her vision for the future of the profession of music therapy.
Sing it Girls! is now available for purchase so youcan impact young women in your community. https://singitgirls.ca/buy-now
Here is a little more about Suzanne:
Suzanne Caron holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science (1974) and a MBA in Finance (1982). During most of her career, she works as a consultant, first in Information Systems, and later in Management and Strategic Planning. During that time, she also raises 4 children, gets involved in the local schools and eventually in municipal politics, first as councillor, later as Mayor. In 2006, after loosing her election for a 2nd mandate as Mayor, she is at turning point, looking for new challenges, wanting to continue to contribute. In 2009, she goes back to school to join the Music Therapy Graduate Certificate Program, at Concordia University. Certified MTA in 2012, she explores how her business experience, network of contacts and new qualifications can be put to work towards the cause of Music Therapy. In 2016, she creates the nonprofit National Music Therapy Institute, obtaining its charitable status in 2018.
For more information about the National Music Therapy Institute and to contribute to their database:
English: https://www.inmt.ca/en
French: https://www.inmt.ca/fr
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555744817432
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/national-music-therapy-institute/
Learn more about Beyond the Studio’s services for psychotherapy and music therapy along with supervision.
Beyond the Studio and the Canadian Music Therapy Podcast were founded by Adrienne Pringle and Cathy Thompson.
Adrienne is a Registered Psychotherapist and Certified Music Therapist with over years of clinical experience working as a music therapist in hospital palliative care, and hospice. She currently works in private practice with Beyond the Studio and CHM Therapy, as an educator and supervisor with Concordia and Wilfrid Laurier Universities. She serves on the Board of Directors for the Canadian Music Therapy Fund and is a past President of the Canadian Association of Music Therapists. Adrienne co-founded Beyond the Studio, Sing it Girls! and The Canadian Music Therapy Podcast with Cathy Thompson in 2013. Adrienne's clinical work is focused in mental health, wellness care, bereavement support, hospice palliative care, chronic illness, and using voice, song and music to support emotional and physical health across the lifespan.
Contact Adrienne for Supervision
Cathy is a leader in business development across Canada. She is passionate about helping people discover their own talents and gifts in the areas of personal and professional development. She partnered with Adrienne to establish Beyond the Studio because of the vision of the organization. To nurture a love of music in all clients and students. Music is such a critical part of our world and Beyond the Studio offers a gateway in which people can experience more of it, through therapy and lessons. She has seen first hand the joy and milestones that can be reached through music therapy. I'm excited that we are able to help more people through our psychotherapy services launched in the fall of 2023.
Author of: The Dandelion: Secrets to Growing Your Successful Business from the Ground Up
Buy Now!
In this episode, we are speaking with Kristen DiMarco about her journey to becoming a music therapist and her specialization in pediatric hospice work. Kristen also tells us more about her vision for the future of the profession of music therapy in Canada.
Here is a little more about Kristen:
Kristen DiMarco, a certified Music Therapist and Registered Psychotherapist, holds a Bachelor of Music Therapy from Wilfrid Laurier University and a Master of Arts in Creatives Arts Therapies from Concordia University. Kristen is the music therapist at Emily’s House Children’s Hospice where she supports children and families who are navigating life limiting illness and loss through both the inpatient and home-visiting programs. Kristen has been practicing music therapy for over 8 years, previously working with adults in community, hospital, and long-term care settings. She is on the Board of Directors of the Music Therapy Association of Ontario, holding the role of Government Regulation Chair for three years before recently transitioning to the role of Ethics Chair.
In this episode, we are speaking with Annabelle Brault who shares with us about her journey to becoming a music therapist along with why she has chosen to focus her published research around clinical work with informal caregivers. Annabelle also tells us more about why she has chosen to study digital well being as part of her doctoral work.
Here is a little more about Annabelle:
Annabelle Brault, MA, MTA is a resource-oriented music therapist, musician, researcher and educator. She is an artist member of the Centre for the Study of Learning and Performance at Concordia University, and the French content editor for the Canadian Journal of Music Therapy. She provides music therapy services in-person and online in various community organisations and institutions in the greater Montreal area as well as professional music therapy supervision at the National Institute of Music Therapy. She is a PhD Candidate at Concordia University investigating the potential of musicking for exploring digital well-being issues in post-secondary students. Other research interests include the use of music technology as a creative medium to instill social change, as well as resource-oriented approaches in clinical and educational contexts. Annabelle teaches both in-person and online learning in the Creative Arts Therapies department at Concordia University, and most recently in the Department of Music Research at McGill University’s Schulich School of Music.
In this episode, we are speaking with Steffi Friyia, Vice President of the Music Therapy Association of Ontario. She is a recent graduate of the University of Toronto Master’s in Music and Health Sciences program and she will tell us about her academic experience and research. We wrap things up by discussion Steffi’s volunteer experiences and why this is important for the next generation of music therapists.
The Music Therapy Association of Ontario (MTAO)Conference isFebruary 24th, 2024: https://musictherapyontario.com/events/2024-mtao-conference-and-agm/
Here is a little more about Steffi:
Steffi is a recent MA graduate of the Music and Health Sciences program at the University of Toronto. With a decade of experience as a certified music therapist, Steffi has embarked on a new venture by founding "Neurologic Music Therapy Services of Ontario," where her focus is specifically on working with stroke patients in the next chapter of her career. In addition to her entrepreneurial pursuits, Steffi remains actively involved in academia. Until the end of June 2024, she dedicates her expertise to assisting current PhD students with their research projects. These projects explore the impact of music on individuals dealing with stroke, autism, depression, and suicide. Notably, Steffi has also been hired as a casual research assistant for the Centre of Depression and Suicide Studies at St. Michael's Hospital. Currently, Steffi leads the Toronto-Area Music Therapists group. Concurrently, she serves as the Vice-President of the MTAO Board of Directors, contributing to the advancement and governance of the field. Steffi's commitment to the intersection of music and health continues to shape both her professional journey and the broader landscape of music therapy.
In this episode, we are speaking with Pam Lansbergen with the Canadian Association of Music Therapists. Pam will share more about her decade-long journey with the CAMT along with some of the key initiatives she’s been involved with. Pam also tells us about her biggest learning moment and her thoughts on the future of music therapy in Canada.
Here is a little more about Pam:
Pam has been working for CAMT since 2013 with a focus on delivery of member services, volunteer management, event management, and systems development. When not at work, Pam enjoys spending time with her husband, cats and dog. She is an avid trail runner and serves as a Race Co-director for Phoenix Trail Races in London, Ontario.
In this episode, we welcome Dr. SarahRose Black back on the podcast from Toronto, Ontario.
SarahRose shares more about the reach and importance of music therapy research. With the Canadian Journal of Music Therapy now being open access, she explains how it helps bring music therapy research to an international level and to allied health professionals.
A little more about Dr. SarahRose Black:
Dr. SarahRose Black is a certified music therapist and registered psychotherapist, specializing in palliative care and psychosocial oncology at both the Princess Margaret Cancer Centre and Kensington Hospice in Toronto. She is also the outgoing editor of the Canadian Journal of Music Therapy. In addition, she promotes music and health with Pulse Music Media.
Link to Canadian Journal of Music Therapy:
https://cjmt-rcm.musictherapy.ca/index.php/cjmt-rcm/issue/view/4
We have four guests we are featuring on this episode Chrissy, Quentin, Hannah and Aprajita from the Canadian Music Therapy Fund. On this episode we’ll get a greater understanding of the mandates of the fund along with opportunities for scholarships, grants, and music therapy advocacy.
For more information about the fund, please visit: https://musictherapyfund.ca/
Chrissy Pearson:
Chrissy is a certified music therapist, registered psychotherapist and fellow of the Association for Music and Imagery. She has worked in various settings including long-term care, palliative care, acute care, group homes, and inpatient and community mental health. She currently works in Toronto at Baycrest Centre, is the executive director of the Canadian Music Therapy Fund and runs a small private practice offering GIM and supervision. Chrissy recently published a paper exploring the experiences of older adults who are aging at home with online music therapy sessions. Advocating for music therapy and providing presentations and consultations about the benefits of music therapy is an important part of her work.
Quentin Burgess:
Quentin Burgess is the Director of Industry and Member Relations at Music Canada, who represents Canada's major record labels. In this role, he works closely with label staff and industry partners, and oversees the organization's Gold/Platinum Certification Program, which recognizes and celebrates milestone sales of music in Canada. Quentin is the Board Chair of the Canadian Music Therapy Fund, and a member of CMTF's Advocacy Committee
Aprajita Saxena:
Aprajita is a certified music therapist and the manager for the Music Therapy Centre in Toronto, supported by the Canadian Music Therapy Fund. In her journey as a music therapist, she has had the opportunity to work with children and older adults with varying clinical goals, mental health needs, and cultural backgrounds. Her clinical work is rooted in a person-centered approach that involves the use of music to connect and support individuals with their holistic wellness goals. Additionally, her recent research initiatives have been focused on understanding the global music therapy landscape with a special focus on India. In her spare time, one can find her travelling, reading fiction or singing Indian classical music.
Hannah You:
Hannah You, a Certified Music Therapist completed her Master of Music Therapy from Wilfrid Laurier University in 2009. Her current position at The Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto has afforded her the opportunity to provide music therapy services in the Paediatric Intensive Care Unit, Cardiac Critical Care Unit, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Cardiology and works closely with the Paediatric Advanced Care Team (PACT). She has completed a specialized NICU music therapy training at Mount Sinai Beth Israel Hospital in New York. Hannah is a Board Member of the Canadian Music Therapy Fund since 2019 and is incoming Vice Chair. She leads the Disbursements Committee and is passionate about creating continued opportunities for grants and scholarships for music therapy across Canada.
We have three guests we are featuring on this episode: Tyler Reidy, Teresa Ianni and Laura Hastings. Tyler shares his journey as a NICU music therapist and the ways his work impacts babies and families each day. Teresa tells us more about an amazing quality improvement project in the neonatal intensive unit of a hospital and what her vision is for the future of music therapy. Finally, Laura tells us more about her drive to create the nation-wide network of music therapists working in the NICU.
Here is a little more about Tyler, Theresa and Laura:
Tyler:
A Certified Music Therapist (MTA) and Registered Psychotherapist (RP) living in Guelph, and working in Kitchener-Waterloo. He earned his Master of Music Therapy degree at Wilfrid Laurier University. He is one of the full-time medical music therapists at Grand River Hospital in Kitchener Ontario in the Children's program providing services to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), Inpatient Pediatrics Unit, and the Pediatric Oncology Group of Ontario (POGO) Satellite Clinic.
Tyler also works as a Child and Family Therapist at Bloom: Child & Family Therapy in Kitchener . Tyler has further training in the First Sounds: Rhythm Breath and Lullaby NICU music therapy training and in Neurologic Music Therapy (NMT).
Theresa:
A Registered Psychotherapist (RP) and a Certified Music Therapist (MTA). She has a Master’s degree in Music Therapy (MMT) and specialized training in Neurological Music Therapy (NMT) and NICU music therapy (Rhythm Breath Lullaby). Theresa has been working as a music therapist for over 13 years where she has had the opportunity to work with children and adults with developmental delays, neurological impairments and mental health disorders. Theresa currently works full-time at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre (Toronto) in Geriatric Care; Alzheimer’s’ Dementia and End of Life, and has recently completed a Quality Improvement project in the Sunnybrook NICU “Implementing a Music Therapy Program”. Theresa is also the owner and director of a music therapy private practice which supports children and young adults on the Autism Spectrum.
Laura:
Laura graduated from Capilano University in 2013 after completing her internship at BC Children's Hospital. After practicing for 4 years in Vancouver and the Lower Mainland, she went on to complete a Master's in music therapy at Concordia University in Montreal. There, she joined forces with Capilano graduate Alison Usher-Jones in her private practice working with individuals with autism. After 4 years in Montreal, she returned to the West Coast to work in a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit and in long-term care. Laura is excited to be in the new Board position of President Elect and to support BC music therapists.
On this episode, we are speaking with Mary Jane Landaker from Kansas, the first US certified music therapist featured on our program. Mary Jane speaks with us about her journey into the music therapy profession (31 years ago) and about working with music therapy interns. She also shares more about her thoughts on the future of music therapy.
Here is a little more about Mary Jane:
Mary Jane Landaker is a Board Certified Music Therapist who works with children and adolescents in a special purpose school in rural Kansas. She is an internship director, the continuing education director and treasurer of the Online Conference for Music Therapy, Inc, and a 30-year veteran of the music therapy profession. She is the owner of www.musictherapyworks.com where she focuses on providing music therapists with products to enhance their clinical practice.
How can Beyond the Studio help you as a music therapist?
You can now purchase the popular Sing it Girls!® Program for your community! www.singitgirls.ca
We offer virtual supervision services with our co-founder, Adrienne Pringle MMT, RP, MTALearn More Here: https://beyondthestudio.ca/music-therapy-supervision
If you need help with your business, Cathy Thompson, co-founder of Beyond the Studio can help!
Her new book is The Dandelion: Secrets to Growing Your Successful Business from the Ground Up
She also provides 1:1, customized business coaching with 30 years of experience.
Learn More Here: https://cathythompson.biz/book
In this episode, we are speaking with Jill Hedican about her work in the area of obsessive compulsive disorder and the transition from a long career in end of life care. Jill also shares with us specific ways that music therapy is used with OCD clients and where she feels the field is heading in the future.
Here is a little more about Jill:
Jill is a Certified Music Therapist and Registered Psychotherapist who has been practicing music therapy in the Toronto area for over 20 years. Her contribution to the field included advocacy for the inclusion of music therapy throughout the formation of the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario. With past experience in supporting children with Autism Spectrum Disorder, Jill has spent the bulk of her career at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre providing music therapy for Veterans at end of life, as well as community patients and their families in a palliative care setting. This past December, she had the opportunity to expand her clinical practice at Sunnybrook and is now developing a music therapy program within the Thompson Anxiety Disorders Centre, home to Canada's only Intensive OCD Treatment Program for clients with severe OCD.
In this episode, we speak with Karie Rippin Bilger about her journey to becoming a music therapist and her return to school to study social work. Karie also shares more about her unique education and career path and how that benefits the people that she serves.
Here is a little more about Karie:
Karie is a Registered Psychotherapist and Certified Music Therapist, originally from Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, living in Guelph, Ontario. She completed her Honours Bachelor of Music Therapy in 2001, and Master of Social Work in 2011, both from Wilfrid Laurier University.
Karie started the Music Therapy program at St. Joseph's Health Centre Guelph (SJHCG) in 2004 and worked as a music therapy clinician and pre-professional supervisor in Long Term Care, Complex Continuing Care, Palliative Care, and Adult Day Program settings. In 2015, her role expanded to include Clinical Leadership of Recreation and Music Therapies.
In 2021, Karie shifted away from music therapy clinical practice, and now works as a Community Responsive Behaviour Team Clinician with the Behavioural Supports Ontario program.
Karie has continuously been deeply involved in music therapy professional issues, contributing to a variety of projects, presenting at conferences, serving as Vice President of the Music Therapy Association of Ontario, and as Ethics Chair of the Canadian Association of Music Therapists. She continues to be an active member of CAMT's Ethics Committee and is the Vice President of the Board of Guelph Youth Singers.
When not working or volunteering, Karie loves to travel, spend time with friends and family, and to support her very creative daughter's various artistic pursuits.
In this episode, we are speaking with Sue Bains about equity, inclusion, representation, and social justice in music therapy. She helps us to further understand what anti-oppressive music therapy is and how do we do it in terms of education, practice, and research.
Here is a little more about Sue:
Sue Baines, PhD, MTA, FAMI, is respectfully grateful to be a live and learn on the unceded territories of the Lil’wat, xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Shíshálh (Sechelt), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish) and Səl̓ílwətaʔ/Selilwitulh (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations on Turtle Island. She is a feminist and an activator. Her research focus is anti-oppressive music therapy. Sue has taught in the Bachelor of Music Therapy program at Capilano University in North Vancouver, BC, Canada since 1997 and continues to practice music therapy in long-term care.
Article referenced in podcast from Voices:
“It’s Not What’s Done, But Why It’s Done”: Music Therapists’ Understanding of Normalisation, Maximisation and the Neurodiversity Movement
https://voices.no/index.php/voices/article/view/3110/3067
In this episode, we are speaking with Jennifer Lin about their unique journey in becoming a music therapist and what a typical day looks like for them. Jennifer also shares their vision for the next 10 years and a little more about their research at the master’s level.
Here is a little more about Jennifer:
Jennifer (they/she) is a certified music therapist (MTA) in the Greater Toronto Hamilton Area. They completed their Honours Bachelor of Music with a specialization in Music Cognition from McMaster University followed by their Graduate Diploma in Music Therapy and Masters in Creative Arts Therapies (Music Therapy) from Concordia University. Jennifer received their accreditation in 2021 and currently is in their second year of practice. Jennifer has experience working with clients of all ages, their main interests include working with children, (Q)BIPOC, and disabled communities. They are a strong advocate for the use of music therapy in marginalized communities and amplifying minority voices. Jennifer received the George Stroumboulopoulos Music Therapy Scholarship from the CMTF in 2021 and recently received the Dr. Sandi Curtis Music Therapy Social Justice Award at their graduation from Concordia University in April!
In this episode, we are speaking with Hayley Francis-Cann about her new role as the Canadian Association of Music Therapist’s incoming President and her journey to become a music therapist. Hayley also tells us more about bringing music therapy to Bermuda, her organization called Synergy Music Therapy & Wellness Services along with details about her other important projects and work.
Here is a little more about Hayley:
Hayley Francis Cann, BMT, NMT, MScAH, MTA is a Bermudian-Canadian certified music therapist and neurologic music therapist fellow with clinical experience in a variety of settings. Hayley completed a Masters of Science in Aging and Health at Queen’s University, has released two Children’s books, is a co-host for the Able Voice Podcast, is a serving board member for the Canadian Association of Music Therapists (CAMT) since 2020 and recently elected as President in May 2023. She is the co-founder of the practice Synergy Music Therapy & Wellness Services and creator of MTA Hayley - a platform for public speaking, resource building, and advocacy for anti-oppressive practices. In everything she does, Hayley aims to provide an authentic experience that is respectful toward all people no matter their age, diagnosis, background or additional social locators.
In this episode, we are speaking with Dr. Cheryl Jones who tells us about her unique journey to become a music therapist specifically in the area of neurologic music therapy. Dr. Jones also shares with us about her work in the field of music-based rehabilitation following traumatic brain injury and being featured in two documentaries done by the CBC.
Here is a little more about Cheryl:
Dr. Cheryl Jones is a certified music therapist and registered psychotherapist in Ontario. She earned her MMT at Wilfrid Laurier and her PhD in Music and Health Sciences at the University of Toronto. She is a Neurologic Music Therapist-Fellow. She has taught in the music therapy departments at Wilfrid Laurier University, Concordia University, and most recently at the University of Miami. She currently serves on the international advisory council for the Academy of Neurologic Music Therapy. Dr. Jones has over 17 years of clinical experience and is specialized in music-based rehabilitation following brain trauma. She is a regular guest lecturer at universities and conferences and her clinical work has been featured in 2 national CBC documentaries as well as the book “Allison’s Brain” by Robert McMechan.
In this episode, we are speaking with Melissa Tan who talks with us about her journey to becoming a music therapist, her role as a Neurologic Music Therapist and what her typical workday looks like. We also learn more about what Melissa is currently researching for her PhD along with her vision for the future of music therapy.
Here is a little more about Melissa:
Melissa Tan is a Certified Music Therapist (MTA) and Registered Psychotherapist with the College of Registered Psychotherapist of Ontario. She is the in-house Neurologic Music Therapist (NMT-F) at Abaton Integrative Medicine in Oakville, Ontario working with clients with autism, early development, neurorehabilitation, and dementia. Melissa is also Part-Time Faculty in the Creative Arts Therapies Department at Concordia University, Montréal. Melissa has a B Music in Piano from McGill, an MA in Music Therapy from the University of Roehampton in London, UK and is currently a PhD candidate in the Music and Health Sciences Research Collaboratory at the University of Toronto.
In this episode,we speak with Erin Gross about the work of music therapists at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre and how it has evolved over the years. She also shares more about some interprofessional collaborations with music therapists at Sunnybrook.
Here is a little more about Erin Gross, MA, RP, MTA:
Erin has been a music therapist for 18 years. She completed her undergraduate training at Wilfrid Laurier University, and her Masters of Creative Arts Therapies, Music Therapy Option at Concordia University. She has worked with a wide variety of client populations in many different settings over the years. She was an employee of JB Music Therapy in Calgary, was a staff member and clinical manager at the Music Therapy Centre in Toronto, currently works at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre in Toronto. Until recently, she was a clinician in the Sunnybrook Veterans Centre, and she is the Professional Practice and Education Leader of Creative Arts Therapies for the organization.
In today’s episode, we are speaking with Andrea Lamont about her role working in paediatric music therapy and what it means to be innovative in the fields of psychotherapy and education. Andrea shares some amazing examples of innovation that she has been involved with at Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital along with ways to connect the paediatric system of support.
Here is a little more about Andrea:
Andrea Lamont, MSC, RP, MTA, FAMI, works as the Music Therapy Team Lead, Clinical Education Liaison, and contributor/content expert to various interdisciplinary research projects at Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital. Andrea also teaches and provides clinical supervision for the music therapy program at Wilfrid Laurier University in Waterloo. In 2017, Andrea was awarded the Meritorious Service Cross (Civil Division) as part of the Holland Bloorview team that created the Virtual Music Instrument in 2017 and in 2018 Andrea received an award for clinical excellence from the Teaching and Learning Department at Holland Bloorview. In 2020, Andrea co-created a Student-Lead Learning Environment opportunity through Holland Bloorview’s Teaching and Learning Department in response to the impact of the pandemic; delivering a virtual clinical music therapy and music psychotherapy services for parents and caregivers of children with special needs served by Holland Bloorview in partnership with Wilfrid Laurier University’s music therapy program.
In this episode, we are hearing from 4 music therapists across Canada who are in varying stages of their careers speak about their plans for music therapy awareness month. Adrienne also shares more about the 7 task forces from the Canadian Association of Music Therapists where you can find educational tools and information to share with your communities about what music therapists do.
Erika starts the episode by sharing more about what is happening on the East coast of Canada in Newfoundland. As an MTA, Erika has experienced the impact music therapy can have on individuals in various situations and settings. She hopes one day everyone will have the ability to access music therapy in their area and it will be a core part of health care.
Rhonda tells us more about her awareness building in Nova Scotia. A lifelong educator and learner, Rhonda spent over twenty years teaching music in public school systems in Nova Scotia and Ontario. She began her music therapy studies in 2020 and is very close to finishing her internship to become a Music Therapist Accredited (MTA).
Victoria is in Ontario and works in the area of palliative care and is a song writer, audio engineer and artist. She is involved with the CAMT Advocacy Committee sharing her expertise in media relations and will be presenting her research, “Faith and Practice: How Religious Beliefs Affect Music Therapists’ Identity and Practice” at the World Congress of Music Therapy later this year.
We finish this episode with Stephanie in British Columbia who shares the engaging social media campaigns she is working on at Capilano University. Stephanie is a 4th year Music Therapy student who is excited to start her internship in a Long-Term Care Facility. While she is finishing her studies, she is working to promote music therapy on the Capilano University Music Therapy Student Association pages.
In this episode, we are speaking with Jennifer Buchanan, the Executive Director of the Canadian Association of Music Therapists, about music therapy month 2023, the World Congress in Vancouver this summer and how music therapists are addressing complex problems across Canada.
Here is a little more about Jennifer MTA, MBA:
Jennifer is the two-time past president of the Canadian Association of Music Therapists. The Canadian music therapy community presented Jennifer with their two most prestigious awards – the Norma Sharpe Award for lifetime achievement and the Frani Award, named after her long-time mentor and friend – and the pioneer of music therapy in Canada.
The hashtags to participate in the conversation during music therapy awareness month and the World Congress in July are:
MTA2023
MTA
WCMT2023
In this episode, we are speaking withSara Klinck about her expertise in the areas of music therapy as it relates to dying and bereavement. Sara shares with us about the bereavement group model that she has developed and written about along with some of her highlights of working with the dying and bereaved.
Here is a little more about Sara:
Certified Music Therapist (MTA) & Registered Psychotherapist (RP); Clinical Supervisor &Instructor
Sara Klinck,is a Registered Psychotherapist and Certified Music Therapist whose private practice extends to hospice palliative care, long-term care, and community wellness programs.She is a clinical supervisor and music therapy instructor (Wilfrid Laurier University), and co-author of a book and several book chapters highlighting music therapy with the dying and bereaved.
Sara’s Book: Voices of the Dying and Bereaved: Music Therapy Narratives
https://barcelonapublishers.com/Voices-of-the-Dying-and-Bereaved-Music-Therapy-Narrativves
As we anticipate Music Therapy Month in March 2023 we take this opportunity to reflect on the achievements of the past year by resharing our show from music therapy month 2022. During this episode which first aired in March 2022 we speak with Jennifer and Chrissy about what’s happening across Canada during music therapy month, their experiences moving into executive director roles along with collaborative projects to support mental wellness.
Here is a little more about our guests:
Jennifer Buchanan:
Jennifer is Founder and Visionary Architect of JB Music Therapy (JBMT), and thrice nominated for the Community Impact Award by the Calgary Chamber of Commerce. Author of 3 books, ‘Tune In‘ ‘Wellness Incorporated‘ and Wellness, Wellplayed: The Power of a Playlist she is a keynote speaker at national and international conventions, on music and mental health, music therapy, and health entrepreneurship. Combining her experience as a Certified music therapist with her MBA, Jennifer is the Executive Director of the Canadian Association of Music Therapists – CAMT, our professional organization (Jennifer has volunteered as a 2 time past President) – has recognized Jennifer with boththe Norma Sharpe Award for lifetime achievement and the Frani Award, named after her long-time mentor and friend.
Chrissy Pearson:
Chrissy is a certified music therapist, registered psychotherapist and fellow of the Association for Music and Imagery. She has worked in various settings including long-term care, palliative care, acute care, group homes, and inpatient and community mental health. She currently works in Toronto at Baycrest Centre, is the executive director of the Canadian Music Therapy Fund and runs a small private practice. Chrissy is an active clinical supervisor and has received teaching and supervision awards. Advocating for music therapy and providing presentations and consultations about the benefits of music therapy is an important part of her work.
In this episode, we are speaking with Candice Hamilton-Miller a registered psychotherapist and founder of CHM Therapy Services. As an allied service professional working alongside music therapists, Candice shares her perspective on the role music therapists play with her clients and the impact of the sessions. Candice also discusses the stage at which she would refer a client to a music therapist and about her view of the future of mental health care in Canada.
Here is a little more about Candice:
Candice has degrees in Psychology and English from the University of Cape Town and York University, and a Masters Degree in Family Relations and Human Development from The University of Guelph. She is a Registered Psychotherapist and Supervisor with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario and a Certified Cogmed Coach. she works with clients of all ages and stages with specific training many modalities of psychotherapy and coaching including Cognitive behavioural Therapy, Narrative therapy, Solution Focused therapy, Play Therapy, Art Therapy, and Sex Therapy.
In this episode, we are speaking with Priya Shah about her journey as a music therapist and her learning in the field of mental health. She tells us more about the impact of music therapy with the clients with mental health issues, Gestalt training she’s taking along with her vision as a music therapist.
More information about Priya Shah, RP, MTA, MMT
Priya Shah is a certified music therapist, registered psychotherapist, and adjunct professor at Wilfrid Laurier University. She currently works in adult inpatient mental health and addictions at Homewood Health Centre and in private practice and is completing additional training in Gestalt psychotherapy.
For more information about Beyond the Studio’s music therapy services, please visit www.beyondthestudio.ca
We are excited to welcome Melissa Jessop on this episode to speak about her personal experience of using music therapy with the birth of her two children. She shares more about the process of music therapy assisted childbirth and her own birth song.
Here is a little more about Melissa:
Melissa studied music therapy at Wilfrid Laurier University, she completed her internship in Scotland. In 2003 was a member of the first MMT graduating class (also at WLU). She is a Registered Psychotherapist and Certified Music Therapist and has extensive experience as an internship and university practicum supervisor. Melissa has been practising music therapy for 28 years and specializes in the area of music therapy and dementia care. Melissa is the operator of Music Therapy Affects, a business that provides professional music therapy services to long term care homes within Waterloo Region.
In this episode, we have Kaitlyn Kasha who tells us about her reasons for pursuing a master’s in music therapy and along with additional educational opportunities. She also shares with us more about her volunteer opportunities as a music therapy student and the impact they’ve had on her lens as a music therapist. Finally, Kaitlyn imparts some words of wisdom with students who are starting out in the profession.
Here is a little more about Kaitlyn Kasha BMus, MMT, RP(Q), MTA:
Originally from Saskatchewan, Kaitlyn Kasha is based in Kitchener-Waterloo and recently completed the Master of Music Therapy program at Wilfrid Laurier University. Previously, she attended Western University, graduating in 2020 with a degree in vocal performance. Kaitlyn works from a client-centred and resource-oriented approach and aims to practice within an anti-oppressive framework. Kaitlyn was the recipient of the 2022 CAMT Student Award. Kaitlyn is currently working in private practice and hospice care and also enjoys teaching voice and ukulele.
In this episode, we have Ruth Roberts speaking with us about her extensive career in music therapy. Ruth tells us about how she started in the profession, some of her experiences along with her strategies for sustaining herself over her career. Ruth also shares her current focus and words of wisdom with our music therapy community.
Here is a little more about Ruth J. Roberts, RP, MTA, FAMI
Following undergrad studies, Ruth attained a Masters of Music Therapy from Wilfrid Laurier University in 2003, and has worked as a music therapist for 25 years. She retired from Sick Kids Hospital last year, after 22 + years and currently maintains a small private practice working with elderly people. She is a Fellow of the Association of Music and Imagery, is an assistant trainer with “Eastern Canada Guided Imagery in Music” led by Guylaine Vaillancourt, and has a small private GIM practice.
In this episode, we are speaking with Anna Plaskett about her journey to becoming a music therapist and her entrepreneurial pursuits as it relates to building Heartsparks Music Therapy and an exciting new collaboration with the Maritime Conservatory. Anna also shares her best advice to those just starting out in the profession of music therapy.
Here is a little more about Anna:
Anna Plaskett is the Music Therapy Department Head at the Maritime Conservatory of Performing Arts. She has over 18 years experience as a music therapy clinician, supervisor, presenter and entrepreneur. Anna holds a Bachelor of Music Performance from Michigan State University, a Certificate of Music Therapy from Acadia University, and is a Certified MTA. She has served as the Continuing Education Chair & Vice President for the Atlantic Association for Music Therapy. Anna performs original children’s music and released her debut children’s album, ‘To the Moon & Back’ in 2017. She is also a proud mother to her six-year-old daughter, Elsie.
In this episode, we are speaking with Kimiko Suzuki about her role as the Canadian Association of Music Therapists chair of Equity and Diversity. Kimiko also tells us more about her journey to becoming a music therapist and what inspires her.
Here is a little more about Kimiko:
Kimiko Suzuki, MA, MTA (she/her/hers) is the current Equity & Diversity Chair for CAMT since 2021. She received her MTA status in 2016, has been working in the field of music therapy since 2017, and obtained her MA in Creative Arts Therapies (Music Therapy Option) at Concordia University in 2018. Her current professional role is Lecturer for the 3rd and 4th year music therapy courses at Acadia University's School of Music (located in Mi'kma'ki, the unceded ancestral territory of the Mi’kmaq nation). She has presented at four annual CAMT Conferences, acted as a guest panelist for "Sound, Mind, and Body: The Healing Power of Music" hosted by the Tafelmusik Baroque Orchestra, and toured around Canada as a performing violist.
For more information on how to access the CAMT documents mentioned in this episode: https://www.musictherapy.ca/about-camt-music-therapy/camt-and-social-justice/
Today we are excited to interview Yasmin Kawar about her work with persons in addictions recovery, trauma, and abuse. She tells us more about what it was like for her starting out in music therapy and what her best advice is for new music therapists.
Here is a little more about Yasmin:
Yasmin Kawar is a Jordanian-Canadian music therapist and qualifying counselling therapist working in the K’jipuktuk (Halifax) area. Yasmin specializes in providing music therapy in mental health settings and is currently working with persons in addictions recovery, trauma & abuse, and criminalized populations. Yasmin's approach is person-centered, intersectional, and anti-oppressive. She works to meet her clients where they are in their life journey to collaboratively and creatively explore challenges, deepen self-understanding, and develop innate resources for healing and personal growth. Yasmin also serves as Vice President for board of the Atlantic Association for Music Therapy, and Secretary for the Creative Arts in Counselling Chapter of the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association.
For more information about resources from today’s show, please visit:
www.beyondthestudio.ca
Today we speak with Daniel Kruger about his research for his master's thesis on the history of the Canadian Association of Music Therapists (CAMT). He shares more about the details of the study and how this research has informed his music therapy practice.
Daniel Kruger: MA, MTA
Daniel Kruger is a Montréal-based music therapist, guitarist, producer, and composer. Daniel has spent time studying jazz, highlife, and improvised music at the University of Guelph and University of Ghana. He completed his masters degree in music therapy at Concordia University in 2019. Daniel is an active musician in the creative improvised music scene in Montréal. His masters research project focused on the early history of the Canadian Association of Music Therapists. He now works full-time as a music therapist in the child and adolescent psychiatry department at the Douglas Mental Health University Institute where he also supervises masters students from Concordia. Daniel's clinical work prioritizes the use of pre-structured and free improvisation, and places an emphasis on collaborative composition and recording projects.
For more information about resources from today’s show, please visit:
beyondthestudio.ca
On this show we have the pleasure of chatting with the past president, current president, and president-elect of the association to get their unique perspectives on what’s happening on the west coast of Canada. We get a better understanding of the leadership structure and initiatives that are happening with the Music Therapy Association of British Columbia.
Here is a little more about Susan, Laura, and Sheila:
Susan Summers PhD, MTA:
Susan Summers is a Certified Music Therapist and Vocal Psychotherapist who has been a passionate advocate in her clinical work with older adults and those at end-of-life and in leadership roles for over three decades. She has been an instructor in the music therapy department at Capilano University for nearly 25 years. Susan currently serves on three professional boards: Canadian Association of Music Therapists, Federation for Counselling Therapists in BC, and the Music Therapy Association of BC, and is currently serving again as President of MTABC. Susan’s passion and vision for music therapy inspires students, colleagues, and other health professionals to partner with us to ensure that music therapy is known and is available to everyone as an essential health profession.
Laura Hastings, MTA, MA, BMT, BA in Mus, NICU-MT:
Laura graduated from Capilano University in 2013 after completing her internship at BC Children's Hospital. After practicing for 4 years in Vancouver and the Lower Mainland in private practice, long-term care, and in the non-profit sector, she went on to complete a Master's in music therapy at Concordia University in Montreal. There, she joined forces with Capilano graduate Alison Usher-Jones in her private practice working with individuals with autism. The thrilling festivals and world-class food of Montreal were spectacular but, after 4 years, she returned to the West Coast to work in a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit and in long-term care. Laura is excited to be in the new Board position of President Elect and to support BC music therapists.
Sheila Lee, MA, MTA, FAMI, NICU-MT, RCC :
Sheila has been involved in music and the arts all her life. As a Registered Clinical Counsellor and Certified music therapist, she regularly uses music, dance, visual arts, and play therapy techniques in her work. She has a BA from UBC, Bachelor of Music Therapy from Capilano U, and an MA in Counselling from UVic. As a lifelong learner, she has completed certifications in Neurologic Music Therapy, NeonataI Intensive Care Unit-Music Therapy, all three levels of The Bonny Method of Guided Imagery and Music, Trauma-Informed Expressive Arts Therapy, and Therapeutic Yoga for Trauma & Resilience.
Her private practice, She Lee Music, has led her to provide music therapy for several school districts and non-profit organizations, and teach early childhood music classes in several daycares and childcare centres. She is also a BC Children’s and BC Women’s Hospital employee. Most recently, she began working on a unit supporting mothers who use substances and their infants who have been exposed to substances. Her specialties include supporting babies, children, teens, mothers, and families.
Sheila’s other passions include her martial arts training, and spending time with her husband and children. She is thrilled to be invited to Beyond the Studio and hopes everyone who is listening is doing well.
“For more information about resources from today’s show, please visit: beyondthestudio.ca
Today we welcome two guests from Quebec, Nathalie Albert and Marie-Fatima Rudolf who will be sharing with us more about the Quebec Association of Music Therapy. They will also speak about their own experiences as music therapists and performers and how the roles interchange and influence one another.
Here is a little more about Nathalie:
Nathalie is a vocalist with a vast performance and recording background. She studied music at the University of Montreal and discovered music therapy when performing in health care settings and completed her MA in Music Therapy at Concordia in 2019. Currently she works full-time with children with special needs at Yaldei School in Montreal. Other experiences include working with children suffering complex trauma from abuse or neglect, and older adults living with Alzheimer’s disease or other neurodegenerative disorders and those with intellectual disabilities. She is currently the President of the AQM.
Here is more about Marie-Fatima:
Marie-Fatima Rudolf is a jazz pianist and music therapist based in Montreal. After obtaining her Bachelor degree in jazz piano at McGill, she spent several years performing, recording albums, and teaching, before doing a Masters in jazz piano in New York. While in New York she discovered music therapy at the Louis Armstrong Center for Music and Medicine, and fell in love with the idea of combining music and well-being. She completed her masters in music therapy at Concordia in 2018 and has been working in various settings, including long-term care, palliative care, with autistic children and children with physical disabilities. She continues to perform and record in Montreal, Toronto, and New York.
For more information about resources from today’s show, please visit: beyondthestudio.ca
In this episode, we are speaking with Sawyer Garrity and Vallye Adams, both from southern Florida.
Sawyer shares with us how the song Shine was created and the impact of this around the world. She also tells us more about the non-profit organization, ShineMSD, that she co-founded. Vallye tells us more about the mission and impact of ShineMSD along with more about the Instrument of Hope.
Here is a little more about Sawyer:
Sawyer Garrity is one of the co-writers of Shine and co-founders of ShineMSD. She is a senior at the University of Miami's Frost School of Music studying music therapy. Sawyer found her voice with music at a young age and has been deeply connected to it ever since. She uses music to help cope with her problems in the world; it is her outlet when she needs to express anything at all. While writing Shine with her close friend, Andrea Pena, Sawyer realized the full power that music has on people, and it’s healing properties. She hopes that with the ShineMSD Foundation, people from her community can find ways to express themselves through art and start the healing process. She truly believes that art has the power to transform us all. She wants everyone to remember to be kind to everyone they meet and treat others with love.
Here is a little more about Vallye:
Vallye Adams is the founder and CEO of Etavele Solutions, LLC, a national consulting firm based in Tampa Florida. Unique like her name, Etavele offers solutions to ‘elevate’ and enhance events, engage boards, specializing in proven sustainable revenue development in the not-for-profit sector. Growing up and a native to the Ft. Lauderdale FL area, Vallye is proud to represent SHINE MSD as their acting Executive Director and Non Profit Consultant.
After attending the University of South Florida, Vallye’s professional experience spans over twenty years, including multifamily property management, real estate sales, and over twelve years in executive non-profit management, fundraising, event development, expansion strategies and new market growth.
A #1 International Best Selling Author of, “YES I CAN!” 16 Success Secrets from Inspiring Women around the world, and collaborator of #1 Amazon National Best seller, “The Impact of Influence”, Vallye is honored to share her success secrets and energy. Vallye lives in Tampa with her husband of 24 years and three children.
To learn more about ShineMSD please visit: https://shinemsd.org/
To listen to the song, Shine, please visit: https://open.spotify.com/track/2T3uaiOXltqaOthhAPzzzA?si=974f55e7a8c14a1a
“For more information about resources from today’s show, please visit: beyondthestudio.ca “
In this episode, we welcome Melody Owen from Vancouver British Columbia. Melody speaks with us about what neurodivergent means and how music therapy is essential for expression and awareness of self. Melody also shares about her current projects and how they are woven into her music therapy practice.
Here is a little more about Melody:
Melody is a neurodivergent music therapist and GIM fellow working in Vancouver, BC. She received her Bachelors of Music Therapy at Capilano University and her GIM certification from the Inner Journey with GIM program. She primarily works with children and youth in a variety of community settings in Vancouver and Squamish as well as is the owner of Sing It Girls East Vancouver. Her company, Music With Melody provides music therapy services for children with extra needs and the families who support them and is a part of STEPS BC clinic, a collaborative space where families can create a team of professionals to support their child's needs. Melody continues to grow her GIM practice and is curious about the relationship between music and our spiritual well-being.
“For more information about resources from today’s show, please visit: beyondthestudio.ca “
In this episode, we welcome Nicola Oddy from Perth Ontario. Nicola will be sharing details about her latest research project: Seeking Awareness of Our Selves and the Environment through Vocal Improvisation in The Singing Field. She will also explain how this research will be used in her music therapy practice.
Here is a little more about Nicola:
Nicola has been a music therapist in Canada for 37 years, using the voice as her primary mode of intervention in both her practice and in her research. She is a proud MTA, a registered psychotherapist in Ontario, and is a Certified Counsellor with the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association. Currently, she supervises interns and professional music therapists who come to her for one-to-one and group music centred supervision both in person and online. She also teaches courses at Concordia University in Creative Arts Therapies and at Carleton University in the school for studies of art and culture and in the school for industrial design. Nicola recently fulfilled a life-long dream by completing her PhD, studying singing as a listening practice at Carleton University in the music stream of the Cultural Mediations program. Through her research-creation project, The Singing Field, she learned how environmental vocal exploration (EVE)in place can be a tool for increasing awareness of both self and place. She has written several published articles and book chapters and has served her music therapy community as conference co-ordinator, proceedings editor, on the editorial review board for the Canadian Journal of Music Therapy, and as president of the CAMT.
She lives in Perth Ontario, where singing takes on a central role in her community work as she leads inclusive choirs and raises funds to increase music therapy opportunities for both therapists and music therapy recipients in Perth and Ottawa.
For more information about resources from today’s show, please visit: beyondthestudio.ca
In this episode, we welcome Miya Adout from Toronto Ontario. Miya will speak with us about her experience as a successful music therapy business owner, what it takes to continue to succeed in the field along with advice for new music therapists. Miya also shares information about providing cultural competence training for music therapists and allied healthcare professionals who are working with Jewish older adults.
Here is a little more about Miya:
Miya Adout is a graduate of Concordia University where she received a Master of Arts in Creative Arts Therapies after completing a BA in Culture and Expression from York University. Miya works with individuals of many ages and needs with a focus on dementia care. She opened her private practice, Miya Music Therapy, in 2015 which now consists of a team of over 10 certified music therapists providing services to individuals and care-facilities throughout Ontario. Miya is also passionate about providing training workshops for dementia care teams on the topics of using music with intention in care facilities and cultural sensitivity when working with Jewish older adults. Aside from her clinical, entrepreneurial, and coaching work, Miya spends her time practicing photography, being out in nature, and most enjoyably being with her two young children.
For more information about resources from today’s show, please visit: beyondthestudio.ca
In this episode, we welcome Alexandra Moir from Halifax Nova Scotia. Alexandra shares with us what’s happening at the Atlantic Association for Music Therapy in terms of new projects along with some of the challenges faced in Atlantic Canada. She ends the interview with a story from her own journey to becoming a Music Therapist.
Here is a little more about Alexandra:
Alexandra Moir, BMus, CMT, MTA, is a Music Therapist from Halifax, Nova Scotia. She is one of two music therapists at Camp Hill, Veteran's Memorial Hospital, and loves working with seniors and the neuropsychiatric symptoms of dementia. Alexandra has conducted multiple data collection and program assessment projects and thoroughly enjoys data and processing results. Alexandra brings unique music-based interventions to her residents through harp, voice, guitar, and piano and she is passionate about Music Therapy advocacy and education through her roles of AAMT president and internship supervisor. She is also the mother of two young children who already love music!
Connect with Alexandra on Instagram: @alexandramoirmta
For more information about resources from today’s show, please visit: https://beyondthestudio.ca
In this episode, we speak with Fleur Hughes from Calgary Alberta. Fleur discusses her humanistic approach to Music Therapy using Improvisation with children along with inspiring advice for new music therapists based on her clinical career.
Here is a little more about Fleur:
Fleur Hughes completed her Music Therapy Master’s degree at the University of West England in 2015 and is working towards a PHD focusing on improvisation, mental health and well-being. Fleur's therapeutic approach is rooted in a person-centered, humanistic perspective - she is currently working as a certified music therapist (MTA) in a special education school with elementary aged children diagnosed with neurodevelopmental disorders. Fleur also serves as the ethics director for the MTAA and received the 2020 Advocacy Award from the CAMT.
In this very special episode celebrating music therapy month, we have two guests joining us. First, we have Jennifer Buchanan from Calgary Alberta and we welcome Chrissy Pearson from Toronto Ontario. We speak with Jennifer and Chrissy about what’s happening across Canada during music therapy month, their experiences moving into executive director roles along with collaborative projects to support mental wellness. Also to note, this episode is also being recorded on video to share in a different format this month.
Here is a little more about our guests:
Jennifer Buchanan:
Jennifer is Founder and Visionary Architect of JB Music Therapy (JBMT), and thrice nominated for the Community Impact Award by the Calgary Chamber of Commerce. Author of 3 books, ‘Tune In‘ ‘Wellness Incorporated‘ and Wellness, Wellplayed: The Power of a Playlist she is a keynote speaker at national and international conventions, on music and mental health, music therapy, and health entrepreneurship. Combining her experience as a Certified music therapist with her MBA, Jennifer is the Executive Director of the Canadian Association of Music Therapists – CAMT, our professional organization (Jennifer has volunteered as a 2 time past President) – has recognized Jennifer with both the Norma Sharpe Award for lifetime achievement and the Frani Award, named after her long-time mentor and friend.
Chrissy Pearson:
Chrissy is a certified music therapist, registered psychotherapist and fellow of the Association for Music and Imagery. She has worked in various settings including long-term care, palliative care, acute care, group homes, and inpatient and community mental health. She currently works in Toronto at Baycrest Centre, is the executive director of the Canadian Music Therapy Fund and runs a small private practice. Chrissy is an active clinical supervisor and has received teaching and supervision awards. Advocating for music therapy and providing presentations and consultations about the benefits of music therapy is an important part of her work.
To join the discussion online, please use hashtag #CanadianMusicTherapy
In today’s show, we welcome Amanda Schenstead from Regina Saskatchewan. Listen in as Amanda speaks about her journey as a music therapist and her role as President of the Music Therapy Association of Saskatchewan. She also tells us more about how she views music therapy as a part of overall wellness.
A little more about Amanda:
Amanda Schenstead grew up in small town Whitewood, SK and after graduating from high school, she attended Brandon University where she completed a Bachelor Degree in Music with Majors in Flute Performance and Minors in Theatre and English. She then went on to complete a Master of Music Therapy Degree at Wilfrid Laurier University in Waterloo, ON where she was also a recipient of a SSHRC Scholarship for her arts-based major research project. In 2009, she returned home to Saskatchewan where she has since been working as a music therapist at Wascana Rehabilitation Centre with the Veterans and Extended Care programs. She has also enjoyed work in the Palliative Care program which operates out of the Pasqua Hospital. Outside of work, Amanda is an active member of Regina's theatre community as an actor, director, musician, and playwright. She also enjoys weekly games of Dungeons & Dragons.
MTAS website: https://musictherapysk.com/
MTAS Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Music-Therapy-Association-of-Saskatchewan-272929639392252/
To join the discussion online, please use hashtag #CanadianMusicTherapy
In this episode we welcome Sandy Pelley, the founder of Creative Music Therapy Solutions and Music Therapy Suite. Sandy shares her experiences with us about her journey to becoming a music therapist along with how she established her two businesses. We also learn more about Sandy’s vision for the future of music therapy.
A little more about Sandy:
Sandy Pelley is a Certified Music Therapist (MTA) who owns and runs Creative Music Therapy Solutions and Music Therapy Suite. She also has a small clinical practice, working mostly with children on the autism spectrum. She graduated in 1989 with a diploma from Capilano, and then returned to Capilano University to receive her degree in 1994. Sandy also has a BA in Psychology from Simon Fraser University. Sandy has been a member of both the MTABC and the CAMT since 1987. She has been the Accreditation Chair for the CAMT, and a Regional Representative, as well as currently sits on the board for the Canadian Music Therapy Fund. Sandy was the recipient of the lifetime achievement award for the MTABC in 2018 and received a lifetime membership. Last year Creative Music Therapy Solutions was the recipient of a CMTF grant to work with front line workers, with Corrections Canada in a pilot project, planning eventually to bring Music Therapy to Corrections Canada across Canada.
To join the discussion online, please use hashtag #CanadianMusicTherapy
This “mash up” is in celebration of our 1-year anniversary of the Canadian Music Therapy Podcast!
One of the important parts of the interviews with our guests is asking them to share a poignant story with listeners in their as work music therapists. On this episode, we have created a compilation of 8 guests from 2021 that focuses on their stories and experiences as music therapists in Canada. We hear from Susan LeMessurier-Quinn, Elaine Cheung, Dr. Kevin Kirkland, Tess McKinnon, Mary Meads, Dr. Amy Clements-Cortes, Adrienne Pringle, and Noreen Donnell.
To join the discussion online, please use hashtag #CanadianMusicTherapy
In this episode, we welcome Robyn Peters, the President of the Music Therapy Association of Manitoba. Robyn who speaks about her journey from completing her degree in music therapy to quickly moving into the role of MTAM board president. Robyn also shares more about the projects that MTAM is involved with along with the FACT-MB certification process.
Robyn began pursuing her music therapy degree at the Canadian Mennonite University in Winnipeg and then completed her degree in 2018 through the online program at Saint Mary of the Woods College in Terre Haute, Indiana. Shortly after becoming a certified music therapist Robyn joined the MTAM board to connect with other music therapists and then in 2019 she became the board president. Over the past 4 years Robyn has been working with a number of different clients. This has included working at care homes, children with autism, adults with intellectual and physical disabilities, children in foster care, and working with those dealing with grief and loss. When she is not busy juggling her schedule between in person and online sessions Robyn enjoys spending time with her family. Robyn and her husband Garry have been married for 36years, have 4 grown children, and one grandson (and a golden retriever named Jack). One of their favourite things to do together is head out in their camper (aka The Tiny House) and enjoy some relaxing time at one of the many campsites in Manitoba. Robyn has also discovered that she enjoys painting and drawing and has found this to be a great outlet for self-care.
To join the discussion online, please use hashtag #CanadianMusicTherapy
In this episode, we have created a mash up of four interviews from 2021 that focuses on the visions our guests have for the future of music therapy in Canada. We hear inspiring ideas from Dr. Susan Summers, Dr. Amy Clements-Cortes, Dr. Elizabeth Mitchell, and Dr. SarahRose Black as ways to look ahead to what is possible.
Our featured guests:
Dr. Summers: at 1:21
Dr. Clements-Cortes: at 4:36
Dr. Elizabeth Mitchell: at 8:05
Dr. SarahRose Black: at 11:16
Adrienne Pringle’s Reflections: at 13:38
To join the discussion online, please use hashtag #CanadianMusicTherapy
In this episode, we have created a mash up of four interviews from 2021 that focuses on the journey to become a Music Therapist. We hear about the personal origin stories from Noreen Donnell, Jennifer Buchanan, Chrissy Pearson and Stephen Williams. We learn how these successful music therapists started their careers and the winding paths they have had.
To join the discussion online, please use hashtag #CanadianMusicTherapy
In this episode we welcome Mackenzie Costron from K'jipuktuk/ Halifax, Nova Scotia. Mackenzie shares the concepts of heart centered business within a music therapy practice framework. She also discusses her thoughts on the sustainability of heart centered entrepreneurship in Canada and globally.
Here is a little more about Mackenzie:
Mackenzie Costron, BMT, MTA, RCT (she/her), is the Owner and Founder of Find Your Voice Music Therapy, launching the first practice location in Katarokwi/ Kingston, ON June 2014. She launched the second Find Your Voice Music Therapy location in K'jipuktuk/ Halifax, NS July 2017 and currently provides music therapy & counselling services in Halifax area.
Mackenzie began her Canadian Association of Music Therapists (CAMT) Certified Music Therapist (MTA) training with Acadia University obtaining a Bachelor of Music Therapy (BMT). In recent years, Mackenzie returned to campus as a part time member of the music therapy faculty instructing 3rd and 4th year students. She is also a Registered Counselling Therapist (RCT) with the Nova Scotia College of Counselling Therapists (NSCCT) and completed the Narrative Therapy program through The Hincks-Dellcrest Centre and University of Toronto. In addition, Mackenzie is a Heart Centered Facilitator with Costron+Co supporting creatives, therapists and health/ wellness entrepreneurs through business, coaching and mentorship sessions, workshops, and retreats.
https://www.instagram.com/costronco/
https://www.facebook.com/CostronCo
https://www.instagram.com/findyourvoicemusictherapy/
https://www.facebook.com/FindYourVoiceMusicTherapy
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mackenzie-costron-bmt-mta-rct-41093055/
To join the discussion online, please use hashtag #CanadianMusicTherapy
We are extending a warm welcome to Elaine Cheung on this episode of the Canadian Music Therapy Podcast. Elaine is the President of the Music Therapy Association for Alberta and she shares with listeners about her experience as a board member of the MTAA and where she sees the future of music therapy not only for Alberta, but for Canada. Elaine also shares a poignant story of the impact of music therapy for patients and staff in intensive care units.
Here is a little more about Elaine:
Elaine is currently the President of the Music Therapy Association for Alberta and has been working with the JB Music Therapy team for the last five years. She received her Master of Music Therapy from Wilfrid Laurier and prior to that, a degree in Music Education and a certificate in Clarinet Performance. She loves the thrill of working with people of all ages and abilities and aims to develop a meaningful therapeutic relationship to maximize a person's potential for change and growth. When not providing music therapy services, you can find Elaine searching for the next learning opportunity and playing clarinet in a community ensemble.
To join the discussion online, please use hashtag #CanadianMusicTherapy
In this episode, we welcome Julia Beth Kowaleski to talk about the Music Therapy Association of Ontario (MTA0), their projects and mission. Julia will also share her thoughts on the challenges and future of the profession of music therapy. She also tells listeners about her experience establishing a music therapy practice in Antigua.
Here is a little more about Julia Beth:
Julia Beth Kowaleski is a certified music therapist, Neurolgic MT fellow, founder & owner of Julia's Place Music Therapy. She has served in the president role on the Music Therapy Association of Ontario Board of Directors since 2016. Julia founded the first music therapy practice on the island of Antigua (2010) working with children. She has a Bachelors of Music Therapy from Wilfrid Laurier University (2010), her Masters of Music and Health Sciences at U of T where she is currently a PhD student.
To join the discussion online, please use hashtag #CanadianMusicTherapy
In this episode, we welcome Naomi Ben-Aharon as they talk about their experiences as a queer music therapist coming from a family of non-musicians, they discovered a strong connection to music. They describe personal growth, clinical experiences, their willingness to be uncomfortable, taking intentional risks and connecting with clients in mental health, hospice and 2SLGTBQ+ communities.
Here is a little more about Naomi:
Naomi Ben-Aharon (they/them) is a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) and Certified Music Therapist (MTA) with a Master of Music Therapy degree from Wilfrid Laurier University. Naomi is a transgender, non-binary, queer therapist who uses a resource-oriented, trauma-informed, client-centered, and anti-oppressive approach to music psychotherapy. Their internships have focused on the areas of mental health (Homewood Health Centre, Cambridge Memorial Hospital), hospice care (Dr. Bob Kemp Hospice), and long-term care (Shalom Village).
To join the discussion online, please use hashtag #CanadianMusicTherapy
In this episode, our guest Rachael Finnerty shares with us what proactive wellness is and why she believes that music therapy is a proactive approach to mental health. Rachael is also a PhD candidate and talks about her research and the results so far. As the founder of the Music Therapy Academy, she discusses the ultimate goal of the academy.
Here is a little more about Rachael:
Rachael has been a music therapist for 20 years, she served as the president of the Music Therapy Association of Ontario from 2010-2014 and was the recipient of the YWCA Woman of Distinction Award, for Healthcare in 2015. Rachael brought 2 music therapy courses to McMaster University in 2010 and currently educates over 2000 students each academic year about music therapy.
To join the discussion online, please use hashtag #CanadianMusicTherapy
In this episode, we have a very special guest host putting us in the hot seat! Stacy Maynard is our podcast producer and tech guru. She is passionate about helping businesses get visible online. Stacy prepared a bunch of questions for us and without preparation, you can listen in as she asks us about the background of Beyond the Studio, Sing it Girls, the podcast and what Adrienne thinks about the future of music therapy!
Stacy works with corporate teams and entrepreneurs alike to make their strategy work for their business, brand and bottom line.
Visit www.themastermind.city to see how she can help your business.
To join the discussion online, please use hashtag #CanadianMusicTherapy
In this episode, Stephen Williams speaks to us about how his career in music therapy began and his key learnings from working on boards and committees throughout his journey. He also shares with us his inspiration for a recent presentation about psychological woundedness and the power of vulnerability.
A little more about Stephen Williams:
Stephen has been a certified music therapist for over 30 years. The second half of his career has been as a music therapy educator at the Capilano University Bachelor of Music Therapy program in North Vancouver, BC. Prior to teaching he worked with children, adolescents, adults and the elderly in his music therapy practice. Until recently, he maintained a small private music therapy practice with a focus on adults and mental health, and adolescents with Asperger's Syndrome. Half of Stephen's role at Capilano University is teaching in the music therapy program, and the other half is an administrative, coordinator role. Service has been at the core of Stephen's career in music therapy.
To join the discussion online, please use hashtag #CanadianMusicTherapy
This episode is a little different! We have two guests joining us, Mary Meads and Tess McKinnon. Mary is a licence owner for the evidence-based, Canadian program called Sing it Girls and Tess has been a participant of the Sing it Girls program at 4 different times over the past year. They talk about their experiences both facilitating the program and from a participant’s perspective.
A little more about Tess McKinnon:
Tess is 11 years old and lives in Waterloo Ontario with her family and 2 guinea pigs, Sherlock & Watson. She loves performing, including dance, drama and singing. Her favorite subject is science, and she likes to play badminton. When she’s bored, she likes to read, hangout with her friends, do crafts, and play with her guinea pigs.
A little more about Mary Meads:
Mary Meads (she/her) is a Credentialed Music Therapist and owner of Wellington Music Therapy Services. A graduate of the Concordia Creative Arts Therapies Masters, Music Therapy option, Mary returned home to Guelph, Ontario to set up her practice with hopes of extending the powerful reaches of music therapy deep into Guelph and the surrounding areas. She loves connecting with community partners and families, developing new programs, advocating for the profession, and engaging with her team of 8 MTAs to offer high quality and exciting music therapy & Community music programs. Mary’s current clinical work focuses on Older Adults Living in Long-Term Care settings, early intervention / early childhood music education, and using the singing voice to enhance wellbeing. Mary also holds a part time position at St. Joseph's Health Care Centre in Guelph, where she supports those living in Long Term Care. Next steps for Mary include engaging more deeply in Anti Oppressive Practice, and leaning into a broader application of music and health on a community level.
To join the discussion online, please use hashtag #CanadianMusicTherapy
Learn more about buying a Sing it Girls licence here: www.singitgirls.ca
In this episode, Esther shares with us about the curriculum for Meet In The Music©- music therapy curriculum for children with autism & diverse needs. She covers examples of program content, data collection, documentation and clinical report generation using the curriculum.
A little more about Esther Thane
Esther has specialized in the field of Autism and special needs since 1996. After over a decade on faculty at Capilano University, teaching in the Bachelor of Music Therapy Program, Esther continues to enjoy presenting at conferences, writing book reviews for published journals and holding workshops for universities, local agencies as well as internationally. In 2014, Esther completed Dr. Diane Austin's (Music Psychotherapy Center, NY) first international distance training program in Advanced Vocal Psychotherapy. Her publication in the book: Voicework in Music Therapy (Jessica Kingsley Publishers), focuses on her innovative method of Vocal-Led Relaxation for Children with Autism. Esther created Meet In The Music© (MITM) music therapy curriculum for children with autism, which is utilized by music therapists throughout the United States, Canada and Australia. Esther is Executive Director of ET Music Therapy in Vancouver, British Columbia, where the team serve over 120 families with both in person and telehealth. ET Music Therapy is situated in two studio locations as well as in schools, implementing the MITM curriculum. In 2017, Esther received the “Iconic Women Creating a Better World For All” award, presented by the Women Economic Forum in New Delhi, India. Recently, Esther received the Canadian Association of Music Therapists (CAMT) PEER RECOGNITION AWARD for innovation and advocacy.
To join the discussion online, please use hashtag #CanadianMusicTherapy
To connect with Esther and learn more about Meet in Music© please visit: https://www.etmusictherapy.com/
In this episode we are privileged to welcome 2 guests, Michelle and Lee-Anne, who are both assistant professors of Music Therapy from Canadian Mennonite University. They speak about the CMU music therapy program, how their unique perspectives influence the work they do, and the practicum experiences of students.
Here is a little more about Michelle: Michelle Yaciuk, is a professor of music therapy at CMU and owns Prelude Music a music therapy and education business in Winnipeg, MB. Her passions include teaching music therapy students, early childhood development and all things business.
Here is more information about Lee-Anne: Lee-Anne Dowsett is a music therapist and clinical counsellor specializing in attachment-focused work with children and families. She is also an Assistant Professor at Canadian Mennonite University in Winnipeg.
Connect with Lee-Anne and Michelle:
Lee-Anne: @leeannendowsett
Michelle: @preludemusicwinnipeg
www.facebook.com/preludemusic.ca
If you are looking for a music therapist, please visit www.beyondthestudio.ca
To join the discussion online, please use hashtag #CanadianMusicTherapy
In this episode, our guest Dr. Amy Clements-Cortes shares with listeners about her research and clinical work which has had a global impact in advancing the discipline of music therapy. She also delves into relationship completion in palliative care music therapy along with her vision for the future of music therapy.
A little more about Dr. Amy:
Amy Clements-Cortes, PhD, RP, MTA, MT-BC is Assistant Professor, Faculty of Music, University of Toronto; Instructor and Supervisor, Wilfrid Laurier University; and Academic Coordinator & Instructor, Interdisciplinary Studies, Ryerson Chang School. She is a credentialed Music Therapist, Registered Psychotherapist and Fellow in the Bonny Method of Guided Imagery and Music, as well as in Neurologic Music Therapy. Her research contributions have had a significant impact in the understanding of understudied phenomenon, resulting in excelled treatments and services. Amy is Research and Ethics Chair of the World Federation of Music Therapy (WFMT), and Managing Editor of the Music and Medicine journal.
Connect with Amy:
Twitter: @DrAmyClements and on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amy-clements-cortes-b93a6411/
If you are looking for a music therapist, please visit www.beyondthestudio.ca
To join the discussion online, please use hashtag #CanadianMusicTherapy
On this podcast, our guest Cynthia Bruce speaks to us about her current work which aims to bring Critical Disability Studies and disability rights to the centre of intersectional social justice work in music therapy. Cynthia’s teaching and research activities amplify the under-represented voices of disabled scholars and practitioners and position the lived experience of disability as a vital source of knowledge.
A little more about Cynthia Bruce
Cynthia Bruce is a blind activist educator, researcher, and Certified Music Therapist (MTA). Her work sits at the nexus of music therapy, critical disability studies, and accessibility in post-secondary education.
If you are looking for a music therapist, please visit www.beyondthestudio.ca
To join the discussion online, please use hashtag #CanadianMusicTherapy
In this episode, we are changing things up! Cathy interviews Dr. Laurel Young along with podcast co-host and business partner, Adrienne Pringle.
This episode focuses on bridging gaps between music therapy research and practice, focusing specifically, on a project that Laurel and Adrienne collaborated on together, entitled Lived Experiences of Singing in a Community Hospice Bereavement Support Group.
A little more about Dr. Young and Adrienne:
Dr. Laurel Young is a certified music therapist and psychotherapist with over 25 years of diverse clinical experience, authored several publications, presented internationally, and served on the CAMT and Canadian Music Therapy Fund Boards. She is an Associate professor of music therapy at Concorida University and is a research member of Concordia’s PERFORM Centre, Concordia’s Arts in Health Research Collective (AHRC), and the Centre for Research and Expertise in Social Gerontology (CREGÉS) and currently serves as the Associate Director of engAGE: Concordia’s Centre for Research on Aging.
Adrienne Pringle is the Director of Beyond the Studio and Co-Founder of the Sing it Girls! Program, along with the Co-host of the Canadian Music Therapy Podcast. She is a Registered Psychotherapist and Certified Music Therapist (MTA) with over 20 years of experience working as a therapist, educator, lecturer, researcher, clinical supervisor, and performer.
If you are looking for a music therapist, please visit www.beyondthestudio.ca
To join the discussion online, please use hashtag #CanadianMusicTherapy
In this episode, Elizabeth talks with us about her lived experience as a music therapist, her vision for the future of music therapy and important lessons learned on her journey. Liz shares poignant experiences about working in residential mental health care and the impact music can make on the way people perceive clients. Her passion is making music accessible because she believes that “access to music is a human right.”
A little more Elizabeth:Dr. Elizabeth Mitchell is a registered psychotherapist, certified music therapist, and assistant professor at Wilfrid Laurier University where she coordinates the Bachelor of Music Therapy program. Liz has extensive experience bringing music-centered music therapy practices to mental health treatment settings with individuals of all ages and is curious about the connections between music therapy and other musical-relational practices. Laurier’s Faculty of Music has appointed Dr. Elizabeth Mitchell to a tenure-track appointment as Assistant Professor in Music Therapy effective July 1, 2021.
If you are looking for a music therapist, please visit www.beyondthestudio.ca
To join the discussion online, please use hashtag #CanadianMusicTherapy
On this episode, Paul Lauzon digs into his research that focuses on the concepts of belief, value, relationships, and learning. Through his work, he is challenging the way we think about respect for persons and our relationships with each other and ourselves.
A little more about Paul:
Paul Lauzon is Founding Professor of the Acadia University Music Therapy Program. As a clinician, he has worked with clients throughout the life cycle, from prenatal to palliative care. As a teacher and scholar, he has an abiding interest in understanding why music is effective as therapy. He is a Certified Music Therapist with 40 years of experience – he is a past President of Canadian Association of Music Therapists (CAMT), and the founding President of the Atlantic Association for Music Therapy (AAMT), he is committed to the growth of Music Therapy in the Atlantic region.
Read more about Paul Lauzon here: https://beyondthestudio.ca/podcast
If you are looking for a music therapist, please visit www.beyondthestudio.ca
To join the discussion online, please use hashtag #CanadianMusicTherapy
In this episode, Dr. SarahRose Black speaks with us about the variety of roles she has in the field of music therapy. From her research exploring music therapy in the context of assisted dying, to her role as the editor in chief of the Canadian Journal of Music therapy, to her work in the field of oncology and palliative care. SarahRose is passionate about music and health and that comes through on today’s show.
A little more about Dr. SarahRose Black:
Dr. SarahRose Black is a certified music therapist and registered psychotherapist, specializing in palliative care and psychosocial oncology at both the Princess Margaret Cancer Centre and Kensington Hospice in Toronto. In addition, she promotes music and health with Pulse Music Media.
Read more about Dr. SarahRose Black here: https://beyondthestudio.ca/podcast
Connect with SarahRose on Social Media:
Twitter: @sarahroseblack
PULSE:
YouTube: www.youtube.com/pulsemusicmedia
Instagram: @pulsemusicmedia
If you are looking for a music therapist, please visit www.beyondthestudio.ca
To join the discussion online, please use hashtag #CanadianMusicTherapy
On this episode, Dr. Kevin Kirkland delves into the current research that is happening in BC in the field of music therapy along with his mission to shed a light on supporting individuals who have had adverse childhood experiences.
A little more about Dr. Kevin Kirkland:
Kevin Kirkland has been practicing music therapy since 1989, he is an instructor of music therapy at Capilano University and is more passionate about the field than ever. He joins us today from Vancouver, British Columbia
Read more about Dr. Kirkland here: https://beyondthestudio.ca/podcast
Connect with Kevin on social media:
https://www.instagram.com/aces_and_addiction/
If you are looking for a music therapist, please visit www.beyondthestudio.ca
To join the discussion online, please use hashtag #CanadianMusicTherapy
Chrissy Pearson focuses on taking chances with her journey to become a music therapist and psychotherapist. She shares with us some poignant stories of how she connected with clients in non-traditional ways and speaks to her passion for advocating for music therapy.
Chrissy received her Honours Bachelor of Music Therapy from the University of Windsor in 2002. She completed her internship at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre in Aging and Veterans Care. She is a certified music therapist (MTA), a member of the College of Registered Psychotherapists (RP) and a Fellow of the Bonny Method of Guided Imagery and Music (FAMI). She has worked with people of all ages facing a diverse range of challenges in settings such as community mental health, schools, long term care, hospitals and in private practice. Currently, Chrissy works in Toronto at Baycrest Centre in palliative care and inpatient psychiatry, and in April of this year she became the Executive Director of the Canadian Music Therapy Fund. Chrissy is an active supervisor and has received teaching and supervision awards from both Sunnybrook and Baycrest.
Over the years, Chrissy has served on various committees for the Canadian Association of Music Therapists and, during her time in Winnipeg, spent a term as President of the Music Therapy Association of Manitoba. Advocating for music therapy and providing presentations and consultations about the benefits of music therapy is an important part of her work.
If you are looking for a music therapist, please visit www.beyondthestudio.ca
To join the discussion online, please use hashtag #CanadianMusicTherapy
Listen in as Kiki Chang and Joel Klassen talk about what it has been like for Canadian music therapists during the pandemic and changes made at the Canadian Association of Music Therapists. Kiki will also share the relationship between music therapy and the social determinants of health while Joel speaks about his journey as an atypical music therapist.
Kiki is the current President of the Canadian Association of Music Therapists. She has been a Certified Music Therapist (MTA) since 2009, primarily working in hospital and long-term care settings with older adults. Kiki has completed graduate-level training in both music therapy and counselling and psychotherapy, and is currently a PhD candidate specializing in health policy and equity. Her doctoral research focuses on the government regulation of health care professions from a health equity perspective and its impacts on music therapy in Canada.
Joel Klassen is a Certified Music Therapist (MTA) living and working in rural Southern Manitoba. He holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts (Music), and a Postgraduate Diploma in Music Therapy (Nordoff-Robbins) from the University of Edinburgh. For the past 15 years he has been a full-time music therapist for Eden Health Care Services, serving a mental health hospital and numerous long term care homes. Trained in cello, piano, guitar and voice, his clinical work focuses on dementia care and the enabling of recovery from mental illness.
Joel serves as a practicum supervisor and lecturer for CMU in Winnipeg, and is currently vice president on the board of the Canadian Association of Music Therapists.
If you are looking for a music therapist, please visit www.beyondthestudio.ca
To join the discussion online, please use hashtag #CanadianMusicTherapy
Dr. Summers has an incredible history in the field of music therapy and vocal psychotherapy. Listen in to hear her personal stories about the impact of using voice in music therapy and her belief that everyone can sing. Susan also tells listeners about her work with older adults and her tireless efforts for the advocacy of music therapy in Canada.
Meet Susan:
Susan Summers, PhD, MTA is a certified music therapist and vocal psychotherapist who has been passionate about her work with older adults and those at end-of-life care for over three decades. She teaches in the music therapy department at Capilano University, serves on several professional association boards, and is in private practice. Her graduate work research focused on the healing and therapeutic use of voice. She has been a member of the UBC research team for ten years with an interest in music therapy clinical practice with seniors with dementia. She brings her passion for advocacy for music therapy to her current roles as MTABC and CAMT Advocacy and Government regulations chair.
To join the discussion online, please use hashtag #CanadianMusicTherapy
Elizabeth Eldridge is an innovator, leader and is passionate about her work in the field of music therapy and mental wellness. Elizabeth shares a poignant story about a young client from a psychiatric facility and how music therapy helped her come out of her shell and find her strength in recovery. Elizabeth also tells us about where her professional journey has taken her and why connection in so important, particularly during the pandemic.
Meet Elizabeth:
Elizabeth Eldridge is a Certified Music Therapist, Psychological Healthy & Safety Consultant and serial entrepreneur. Following her music therapy degree at Acadia University she completed her clinical internship in Mental Health Recovery Services in Hamilton, Ontario, which ignited her passion for mental health. In her role as an intern she gained invaluable experience working on an interdisciplinary team supporting clients living with various psychiatric illnesses. She returned home to southern New Brunswick in 2008 and established Arpeggio Music Therapy, which has expanded to include internship and subcontracting positions.
In 2012, after identifying the need for mental health education for laypersons, Elizabeth founded Arpeggio Health Services whose ever-growing team now provides training opportunities like Mental Health First Aid Canada-wide. Taking on additional education related to mental health herself, Elizabeth launched a consulting practice and now works as an advisor to companies that are adopting best practices around psychological health and safety management, striving to optimize workplace mental health to boost productivity, decrease absenteeism and improve employee engagement, retention and workplace culture.
Elizabeth has served in various board and committee roles over the years in support of the growth of music therapy as a profession, including a term as president of the Canadian Association of Music Therapists.
To connect with Elizabeth, please visit: www.elizabetheldridge.com
To join the discussion online, please use hashtag #CanadianMusicTherapy
Jennifer Buchanan is a pioneer in the field of music therapy in Canada. She blends health, heart and mastery while continuing to advance the field of music therapy. Jennifer speaks candidly with us about her humble beginnings, her sources of inspiration and how music is a powerful connector for professionals and those from diverse backgrounds.
Meet Jennifer:
Jennifer’s company JB Music Therapy has been instrumental in the implementation of hundreds of music therapy programs throughout Canada for almost 30 years and has been thrice nominated for the Community Impact Award by the Chamber of Commerce. Jennifer is the recipient of the two most prestigious Canadian music therapy lifetime service awards: the Franni Award and the Norma Sharpe Award.
She is the Executive Director for the Canadian Association of Music Therapists and has been an invited keynote speaker at national and international conventions speaking on music therapy and health entrepreneurship to a wide variety of education, healthcare, government, small business, and corporate audiences.
As an author of two award-winning books – ‘Tune In‘ and ‘Wellness Incorporated‘ she has appeared as a guest on numerous news and current affairs programs including Fox News Health, NBC, CBS, CTV, Global TV, CBC Radio and Television and has been featured in publications such as The Guardian, The Huffington Post, and Canadian Living.
In addition to her Music Therapy education, Jennifer has her Executive MBA specializing in social entrepreneurship from the University of Fredericton.
To join the discussion online, please use hashtag #CanadianMusicTherapy
Noreen Donnell is a Certified Music Therapist and Registered Psychotherapist with over 30 years of clinical experience. She graduated from Wilfrid Laurier University with the first Undergraduate (1988) and Graduate (2003) Music Therapy classes and has dedicated her entire career to the field. Her most recent success is the creation of the Commusicate program which is being used by music therapist’s internationally! Noreen candidly tells us about her personal journey becoming a certified music therapist. The poignant stories she shares about three unique clients and how music made a pivotal difference in their lives will connect you to why music therapy is a powerful modality for growth and healing.
Meet Noreen:
Combining her desire to help others with a lifelong study of music, Noreen Donnell has dedicated more than 30 years to her profession as a Certified Music Therapist. Holding a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Music Therapy and a Master's degree in Music Therapy from Wilfrid Laurier University, she has extensive experience working in different settings helping children and adults with developmental delays and physical disabilities, psychiatric and emotional challenges, and children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. From 2010-2014, she was the Clinical Director of Music Therapy at Blueballoon Health Services. Prior to that position, she operated her own private practise Halton Music Therapy, and has worked at hospitals, rehabilitation centres, and long-term care facilities. She is co-founder of ComMusicate, a successful and unique music-based group intervention program that combines music therapy and speech language pathology to improve communication skills in children. She is also accredited with the Canadian Association for Music Therapy where she served on the national board as Vice President (2004- 2009). Noreen is a Registered Psychotherapist with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario and is a member of the Music Therapy Association of Ontario, Laurier Centre for Music Therapy Research, and the Songwriters Association of Canada. Noreen has also published numerous articles in the Canadian Journal of Music Therapy, and has composed for and produced a children’s CD entitled “Singalingalong”. Noreen is currently operating a supervision practise, MusicByDesign, working as music therapist at Hamilton-Wentworth Catholic School Board, and consults to various organizations. As a musician, Noreen plays piano, guitar, violin and percussion.
Learn more about ComMusicate here: https://beyondthestudio.ca/commusicate
If you are looking for customized online music lessons visit www.beyondthestudio.ca
To join the discussion online, please use hashtag #CanadianMusicTherapy
From Canada’s eastern most city on the North Atlantic we are featuring the work of Susan LeMessurier Quinn at the Janeway Children’s Hospital, Eastern Health, in St. John’s Newfoundland. We will connect with Susan to learn more about the versatility of music therapy and stories from both inpatient and outpatient settings with children and youth. Susan shares her experience with a young patient in the NICU and how music therapy had a profound impact on the infant's health and well-being. She also highlights the ways that Telehealth is providing essential health care and mental health support to children and youth in report communities as far away as Labrador.
Meet Susan:
Susan LeMessurier Quinn is a certified music therapist at the Janeway Children's Health and Rehabilitation Centre in St. John's, NL. Her clinical experience of over 20 years includes working with children and youth with diverse needs ages 0-18 years in the areas of rehabilitation, child development, acute care, and mental health. She has also provided services in residential treatment for youth experiencing complex mental health illnesses. Susan is a professional associate of the MUN School of Music, a past president of the Atlantic Association of Music Therapy, has served on the board and the advocacy committee for the Canadian Association of Music Therapists, and is currently an instructor for the Creative Arts Therapy program at Concordia University.
If you are a music therapist looking for supervision, learn more at https://beyondthestudio.ca/music-therapy-supervision
To join the discussion online, please use hashtag #CanadianMusicTherapy
In this inaugural episode of the podcast, Adrienne and Cathy speak with Dr. Sandi Curtis from Montreal Quebec as she shares her wealth of knowledge about feminist music therapy. Dr. Curtis shares her mission about why she wrote her book entitled “Music for Women (Survivors of Violence): A feminist music therapy interactive e-book” along with her approach to feminist music therapy. Sandi shares how music therapy is a powerful tool for women and girls who survive violence.
Meet Dr. Curtis:
Dr. Sandi Curtis, MT-BC, MTA, is Professor Emeritus in the Music Therapy Program at Concordia University’s Creative Arts Therapies Department in Montreal, Canada. She is an internationally trained music therapist with more than 30 years’ experience in clinical practice, education, and research. Dr. Curtis specializes in work with women and girl survivors of male violence, with current research interests in Feminist Music Therapy and Community Music Therapy.
She is recipient of a Windsor Social Justice Person Award. Dr. Curtis has published extensively in peer-reviewed journals and scholarly textbooks, with her most recent being “Music for Women (Survivors of Violence” (2019, Barcelona Publishers). She is a Research Member of the Arts in Health Research Collective and a Fellow in the Simone de Beauvoir Institute. She is co-investigator in a $2.5 million Social Sciences and Humanities (SSHRC) Partnership research grant exploring “Rape Culture on Campus & the Role & Influence of Arts & Pop Culture” (IMPACTS: Collaborations to Address Sexual Violence on Campus).
For more information about Dr. Curtis and her book, please visit: https://sandicurtis.com/
For more information about the Sing it Girls program, please visit: www.singitgirls.ca
We would love to know your thoughts about the show! Share with us using hashtag #canadianmusictherapy
What happens when you combine someone with a career as a Music Therapist & Psychotherapist with someone who is an Entrepreneur, TV host and all-around curious person? Welcome to the Canadian Music Therapy Podcast! In this episode, Adrienne speaks about her roots in music therapy and how her passion for work in hospice & community singing has shaped her career. Cathy shares with listeners about her early sales career when she was 4 years old and her background in business development and mental health promotion.