Often Misunderstood?

A couple weeks ago I was given the opportunity to attend American Music Therapy Association (AMTA) national conference in Sandusky, OH. I haven't been to a conference since I became a professional 3 years ago, but I was lucky enough to get to go every year in college. It was a much different experience this year-- I felt more independent, more entrenched in my personal views of how I practice Music Therapy, and far more able to articulate these ideas around my peers and colleagues. Do you ever have that feeling that you never grow up and get more mature, but then you look back at who you were years ago and come to this realization that you've changed immensely? That was my experience at this conference, and it was so fun!

In the Music Therapy world, the phrase "It takes a village" rings very true. We are a small community compared to many other professions, and have to constantly advocate for what we do and how it is beneficial. I actually met a gentleman who recently started a Music Therapy program at Riker's Island in NYC, and he is the only Music Therapist working at this lockdown facility. Talk about feeling isolated! I know how hard it is to be the only Music Therapist at a facility, and have no one that truly understands what I do. No one to bounce ideas off of, no one to supervise me or give me pointers. It can be really exhausted and lead to burnout. But just when I think I'll avoid answering any questions about "what Music Therapy is" or stick up for myself when people call me the "fun lady" or "guitar person", I realize that what I do MEANS SOMETHING and I want people to have a clear understanding of why!

I thought I would make a list of ways to answer those questions in kind and compassionate ways. Educating others as to what we do, but not coming across offended or condescending (because we are passionate about what we do..sometimes we can be too pushy). Here are a few pointers:

1. I always start every group allowing another patient to give their interpretation of what Music Therapy is based on the groups they have attended. This gives them ownership, and then you can guide the answer a bit without being overbearing. Often I hear "it's relaxing", or "it helps me get out my emotions". I validate those, and add "you're entirely correct, and those are two very worthy goals for Music Therapy. Music Therapy is the use of music to work on a nonmusical goal such as relaxation, communication, cognition, etc. Music is our tool, but not often our end goal".

2. My response to "oh the fun lady!" is often given in the form of gratitude. I often say "I'm glad you think my groups are fun! I would love to hear some of your personal thoughts about this song I brought today. It might be challenging, but I think it will be healing for us as a group today". This gets them away from the "it's always just fun in music therapy" to "wow, I really might learn something beneficial if I approach it differently".

3. Have you ever been called a Rec Therapist? I'm in the "Rec Department" according to many people at my hospital, but often use this as a chance to educate my peers. I simply say, "I don't have my degree in Recreation Therapy, but in Music Therapy. We both approach goals in different ways, I use music as my tool! They use other recreational activities". It's simple, and even if they forget, friendly reminders are always fine. But, sometimes you have to pick your battles too...

It's important to continue to advocate for Music Therapy and clear up misconceptions, but it is also tiring. As a community, we have to stand together and demonstrate our efficacy. One way we can do that is with simple words. Practice responding to people in this way, but remember to leave your fighting gloves at home. Our co-workers, family members and friends don't have intentions of offending us when they ask these questions. We are simply in a field where we are often misunderstood, but strong as ever!