Music Therapy and Teaching
Music therapy
My practice centers on supporting individuals and communities affected by violence, trauma, grief, and loss through the political contexts surrounding those experiences. Sessions can be conducted individually or in groups, often complementing other therapeutic practices, treatments or pharmaceuticals.
music therapy
Music therapy is the evidence-based practice of using music interventions by a board-certified music therapist to achieve clinical goals within a therapeutic relationship. Research has demonstrated the profound connection between human emotion, somatic processing, and music, reliably eliciting emotional responses in listeners. The practice encompasses listening to, reflecting on, and creating music to enhance a person's health and well-being. A board-certified music therapist serves as a safe guide through the deeper areas of the unconscious.
- For more information, visit www.musictherapy.org.
- For resources, visit www.mederimuzik.com.
- For insight into my practice, check out this essay.
Areas of expertise
- High-control group recovery
- Hate and extremist group involvement
- Gang and human trafficking involvement
- Insular religious and cultic group involvement
- Hospice and palliative care
- Liberation music therapy
- Political Burnout and disillusionment
- Activists experiencing burnout
- Veteran and service members experiencing disillusionment
Music and emotional health - support groups
I facilitate one-off music and emotional health support groups for various organizations and affinity groups, including:
liberation music therapy
Liberation Music Therapy draws upon the principles of Liberation Psychology, which emphasizes empowerment, critical consciousness, and social justice. When applied to music therapy, these principles guide the therapeutic process toward promoting individual and collective liberation, fostering critical awareness of social and systemic issues, and facilitating empowerment through music and community engagement. Below are some fundamental principles of Liberation Music Therapy. By integrating these principles into the therapeutic process, Liberation Music Therapy offers a transformative and empowering approach to music therapy that supports individuals in their journey toward healing, discovery, and social change.
Empowerment
Liberation Music Therapy aims to empower people to recognize and challenge oppressive beliefs, behaviors, and structures that may impact their emotional and psychological well-being. Through music-making and self-expression, participants are encouraged to reclaim their voices, agency, and personal power.
Critical Consciousness
Liberation Music Therapy fosters critical thinking and awareness of social, cultural, and systemic issues that contribute to individual and collective oppression. Participants are encouraged to explore and question societal norms, stereotypes, and injustices through musical expression and dialogue.
Social Justice
Liberation Music Therapy promotes social justice by addressing and advocating for equality, diversity, and inclusion within the therapeutic process and the broader community. Music is used as a tool to amplify marginalized voices, challenge systemic inequalities, and foster community solidarity and activism.
Holistic Approach
Liberation Music Therapy adopts a holistic approach that considers the interconnectedness of individual, cultural, and societal factors influencing mental and emotional well-being. The therapeutic process is adapted to meet the unique needs and experiences of each individual, utilizing a variety of musical and therapeutic techniques to facilitate growth and healing
Community Engagement
Liberation Music Therapy emphasizes the importance of community connection, collaboration, and collective action in promoting individual and collective well-being. Group music-making, dialogue, and shared experiences are utilized to build community, strengthen solidarity, and foster mutual support and understanding among participants
Cultural Sensitivity and Inclusivity
Liberation Music Therapy values and honors cultural diversity, recognizing the importance of inclusivity, respect, and sensitivity toward individuals' cultural backgrounds, identities, and experiences. Music from various cultures and traditions is incorporated to celebrate diversity, promote cross-cultural understanding, and facilitate cultural healing and connection.
Transformative Learning and Growth
Liberation Music Therapy encourages transformative learning and personal growth through self-reflection, exploration, and self-expression facilitated by music. Participants are supported in their journey towards increased self-awareness, resilience, and personal development, empowering them to enact positive change in their lives and communities
Teaching
My teaching philosophy centers on empowering students to uncover their innate musical abilities, nurturing self-confidence, and fostering a strong sense of accountability. I have a deep respect for diverse musical traditions and strive to apply this respect to best serve each student's journey of understanding and creativity, blending historical roots with an understanding of progressive musical innovations. Above all, I am committed to creating a respectful and safe learning environment where students can feel comfortable exploring and growing.
I teach: Music for Dancers 101 and 102 at the Martha Graham School
I offer all lessons online and conduct workshops both online and in person.
I teach: Music for Dancers 101 and 102 at the Martha Graham School
- One-off private lessons
- Composition and improvisation workshops
I offer all lessons online and conduct workshops both online and in person.
education
- BA in Music Therapy - Montclair State University
- Board Certified Music Therapist - Certification Board for Music Therapists (CBMT)
- Guided Imagery and Music Level 1 - Atlantis Institute for Consciousness and Music
- Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) Practitioner - The Priority Academy