What is Music Therapy?

Most of us would agree that music can be inherently therapeutic. Within music therapy, however, individuals benefit from the evidence-based use of music interventions to address their specific therapeutic goals. Music therapists create secure therapeutic relationships with their clients in order to facilitate healing & growth. Sessions may include music listening, instrumental play, singing, songwriting, mindfulness practices & music-based relaxation. Clients do not need any background or training in music in order to benefit from services. 

Marcie Hernandez, MT-BC
Neurologic Music Therapist

I am a board-certified music therapist and the owner of True Sound Music Therapy. As a music therapist, I have had the opportunity to work with a variety of individuals, ranging in all ages, backgrounds and abilities. I received my BM in Music Therapy from Queens University of Charlotte in 2012. From there, I went on to complete my clinical internship at MJHS Hospice & Palliative Care in Brooklyn, NY, providing music therapy within end-of-life care. In 2015, I completed an advanced training in Neurologic Music Therapy with Michael Thaut (Rhythm, Music & the Brain).

Throughout my career, I’ve been able to provide music therapy services in many different environments, including schools, nursing homes, private homes and medical facilities. I combine my knowledge of the healing elements of music with a humanistic and psychodynamic therapeutic approach. I provide client-centered care with the belief that the client is ultimately the expert of their own life. Within the therapeutic relationship, my goal is to provide guidance and support through musical and non-musical interventions to facilitate growth, healing and a deeper connection to self & others.

Individual Services Include

• Initial Assessment Session: Consultation & identifying therapeutic goals
• 45 minute sessions with uniquely tailored music therapy experiences. Includes documentation of progress, continual re-evaluation of goals & communication with related healthcare professionals, as needed.

Music Therapists Help Clients Learn, Heal, Connect Through Song

By Ken Picard of Seven Days

“Hannah Waterman doesn’t speak. The 16-year-old Burlington girl has Rett syndrome, a rare neurological disorder that affects her motor skills, coordination, balance and intellectual development. She also grinds her teeth, wrings her hands repetitively, has difficulty focusing her gaze and suffers from sleep disruptions…”