Hi! My name is Mallory McDonald, and I am one of the new music therapy interns at Therabeat, Inc. For the next six months, I have been offered the privilege of working alongside exceptional therapists as well as clients, and I could not be more excited to begin this journey. This week consisted of a lot of observation of sessions, note taking, and friend making! I have had the time of my life thus far, and I am so thrilled to be able to finish my degree with In Harmony Pediatric Therapy.
Music therapy is an extremely special form of healthcare that utilizes the therapeutic functions of music to improve quality of life. I have always enjoyed music and have been involved in activities such as choir, musical theater, and singing lessons for as long as I can remember. I felt a little disheartened before attending college because I thought that I would have to set aside my passion for music to pursue a career. It was such a pleasant surprise when music therapy was introduced to me as an option. I had not heard of music therapy until my brother and sister were diagnosed with autism. Watching my sister receive treatment and meet goals was so special, and opened a door to discovering how the therapeutic functions of music can be used to meet an individual’s needs. I knew that I wanted to do the same for others and promote positive change in people’s lives.
My first week at Therabeat has just come and gone, and I am so giddy to wake up and come into the clinic every morning. Having the opportunity to observe successful music therapists treat clients has been incredible. I have met some of the most spectacular individuals, and have enjoyed every minute of making music with them. Some of my favorite moments of the week were observing other therapies including speech, physical, and occupational. It was so intriguing to see the different forms of treatment. Along with that, observing a co-treatment session with physical therapy was insightful, and allowed me to view how much progress can be made when therapists work together on a treatment plan. I have also enjoyed listening to the clients prepare for the recital in adaptive lessons. I can tell how hard these kiddos have worked on their songs, and can hardly wait to hear the finished product. I also had the opportunity to observe an evaluation/assessment using IMTAP.
Being at Therabeat this past week has already educated me on so much and has made me extremely excited to become a board certified music therapist. I am honored to be working with these individuals and making music with them for the next six months. I am so thrilled to be here and so excited to contribute to sessions in the weeks to come!
-Mallory McDonald, Music Therapy Intern
