What is music therapy?
The American Music Therapy Association defines music therapy as "clinical & evidence-based use of music interventions to accomplish individualized goals within a therapeutic relationship by a credentialed professional who has completed an approved music therapy program." Essentially, it is a music therapist's role to use musical experiences as a tool to support clients/patients in meeting their goals.
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Therapeutic music experiences can range from song-writing to promote emotional exploration to music-based mindfulness exercises to support relaxation and anxiety reduction. Interventions are tailored to the unique needs, strengths and musical preferences of the client. No previous musical experience in necessary to benefit from music therapy. The only prerequisite is an open mind, ready to explore.
Carly Poloskey, MMT, MT-BC
I am a board-certified music therapist, mental health advocate, and all-around creative soul who has been serving in various healthcare roles for over 8 years. I hold a Masters of Music Therapy with endorsement in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Slippery Rock University and a Bachelor's of Music in Music Therapy with a double major in Psychology and Performer's Certificate in Classical Voice from University of Miami Frost School of Music. My clinical experiences have ranged from supporting neurodivergent youth, individuals in acute psychiatry and families navigating medical crisis. I employ a humanistic-existential and feminist approach in my work, and I strive to embody my core values of justice, curiosity, and openness. Singing and songwriting played pivotal roles in my own mental health journey as a teen, and the healing I have experienced in creative contexts fuels my passion to support others through evidence-based artistic means.
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I started Creative Elements Health & Wellness because I want to bring the powerful healing tools of creative expression to more individuals and families through virtual and in-home sessions.