With my internship at Therabeat finally coming to a close, I have been reflecting on all of the amazing experiences and memories that I have made along this journey. Therabeat has taught me so much about improving my therapeutic technique, professionalism, and musical interventions. It also taught me about maintaining patience, communication, choosing joy, and showing love to others.
During my internship, I have had the opportunity to work with a variety of individuals all with different ages, diagnoses, and backgrounds. Each of them has incredible talent and a love for music. I have loved experiencing thirty minutes to an hour with each of my friends and I am beyond grateful for the lessons they taught me along the way. I have learned patience for when the session takes a turn and does not go my way. I have learned how to communicate, and be open-minded to the way that others communicate as well. I have learned about how to be flexible when there are sudden changes or when something unexpected happens.
My incredible supervisors during this internship, as well as the other women in the clinic, (and Matt), have taught me how to be punctual. How to take extra steps to remain prepared and organized. How to communicate effectively with my peers. I have learned so much about how to shift from a student mindset to becoming the therapist in the room. I have also learned how to have compassion for others and how to show love through careful listening and consideration for others. I have learned how to be an encourager and how to be a good friend.
One year ago, I could not have even imagined getting to this point of completing my internship and graduating from college. It flies by so quickly. This experience is truly what you make of it along the way. I will never forget my experiences here and the friends that I have made along the way. I am so blessed to have had this opportunity, and I will miss it just a little too much.
Thank you, Therabeat. Until we meet again!
-Mallory McDonald, Music Therapy Intern