A long time ago while I was in college studying music, I had this dream of reaching people through music. At that time, my dream was to be on Broadway singing for the masses. During my studies, I met Anna McChesney at a rush event for a sorority I eventually joined. I remember her introduction so clearly, “Hi! My name is Anna! I want to be a music therapist and open my own private practice!”. She was so enthusiastic, inviting, and warm. It was hard not to believe in her big dream! She told me all about music therapy. After that meeting, I went to the registrar’s office and changed my major from vocal performance to music therapy.
Music therapy is the therapeutic use of music to change behavior, promote wellness, and improve the quality of life. Music therapists use evidence based practice of music therapy interventions to reach non-musical goals. After I received my degree and became a Board Certified Music Therapist, I set out to open Healing Sounds Music Therapy, LLC in Richmond, Virginia. We are a private practice serving a wide variety of populations in the greater Richmond area. We work in older adult communities, group homes, hospitals, hospice, day centers, and school systems (just to name a few!). Music has proven to be a fun and effective means for individuals and groups to reach their highest potential!
This past January, I took on a partner in my practice after 8 years of working solo- Anna McChesney, MS, LPC, MT-BC. Her dream inspired me to do what we are doing today. I am lucky to call her not only my best friend, but my fearless Co-Director. In the new year, we have put together a wide variety of new programs that we will be offering in August 2017. We are so excited to finally have our own clinic (to be announced soon!), provide music therapy social skills groups, early childhood groups, and individual sessions/lessons this fall.
Here are some of the exciting new programs we will be offering for individuals and groups for children and adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder and Developmental disabilities this fall:
Music Therapy Social Skills Groups
Tiny Sounds: Early Childhood Music Classes
Individual Music Therapy Sessions
Adaptive Music Lessons
Sibling Music Lessons (piano/guitar/voice/ukulele lessons for siblings of current HSMT clients)
Community Drum Circles
And more!
For more information, or to request an assessment, please check out our website: www.healingsoundsrva.com!
-Megan Martin, MA, MT-BC
Co-Director
Healing Sounds Music Therapy, LLC