My name is Macie Skinner and I am so excited to be a part of the Therabeat team as a music therapy intern! I am from Alpharetta, Georgia, and I am so happy to be back home working in a field that I am so passionate about! Growing up, I was on a competition dance team at RISPA, a performing arts studio in Milton, GA. I moved back home at the beginning of the pandemic, and by this past fall I was able to begin teaching classes at my old studio again! I have always loved working with kids and teens, and Therabeat has already proven to be a perfect fit for me in more ways than one!
I began my music therapy journey at Florida State University in 2016, where my primary instrument was voice, but I also spent a ton of time studying instruments like the guitar and piano! I earned a certificate degree in Music in Special Education my senior year, and I was one of a few music students lucky enough to be able to extensively study American Sign Language through a specialization program! ASL quickly became a passion of mine, and I was even able to become a TA for a nonverbal communication class for undergraduate music therapy students! One day, I hope to open my own co-operative private practice that serves individuals with hearing impairments! Outside of the classroom, I served as co-captain of LEVEL Dance Company, a student-run dance team, and performed at various campus events including: Dance Marathon, Relay for Life, FSU’s annual Homecoming Parades, and Pow-Wow Pep Rallies!
I absolutely love all things tie dye, vintage, and anything with sunflowers on it! I am a coffee fanatic, and I’m constantly listening to and learning new music. Some of my biggest musical influences include: Elton John, Jake Scott, Ben Platt, and Sara Bareilles! When I’m not working, I enjoy spending time with my friends and family, and babysitting my sweet nieces and nephew!
My first week as an intern at Therabeat has shown me that this experience is going to be everything I could’ve asked for in an internship and more! The team of therapists have been so welcoming and helpful with any and all questions we’ve had (and there’s been a LOT)! I love coming to work every morning, there’s nothing like walking into such a positive atmosphere full of joy and celebrations for little victories! I’ve already learned so much from everyone here, and I can’t wait to continue learning and growing with such incredible people!
‘Til next time!
-Macie Skinner, Music Therapy Intern