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Music provides clients a path to experience vulner-
ability without compromising safety. Lyrics spark
conversations. Harmonies provide a sense of com-
munity without a direct violation of privacy. Music
therapy allows the client to address their discomfort
and work through it within a safe place. Music ther-
apy is non-judgmental, non-prescriptive, and based
on client preference. It is these ideals that makes for
proper participation and effective outcomes--healing
over performance.
Evolution and ease of access to music has enhanced Photo by Miguel Á. Padriñán
Photo by Miguel Á. Padriñán
many aspects of therapy. Technology has increased
opportunities for anyone to learn and create music.
Photo by Moose Photos
Photo by Moose Photos In just a few steps, music can be made and produce a
The Sound of Healing sense of accomplishment. Today’s music is not re-
stricted in any way. Music has become eclectic and
Interview with Chrissy Watson by Tammy Yosich inclusive. For example, country and rap music have
recently blended and typical pop sounds can be found
Written By RM Pearce, ZGP Intern merging into contemporary Christian melodies.
American music borrows from other countries and
allows for a larger sense of community among diverse
In 2012, Chrissy Watson made her way from North ture, listening to podcasts and loving her dogs. She individuals.
Carolina to Jackson, Tennessee. Chrissy had such a would happily show pictures of them on her smart-
passion for music, she believed it could change lives. phone with little prompting. Throughout Chrissy’s career she learned how much
Her arrival in Jackson was purely coincidental if you power is held by music and the effect it has on people
believe in such a thing. Watson was searching the Part of her “self-care” routine included absorbing in ways other therapeutic mediums may not. In music
internet for a workshop for music therapy. Howev- information. She kept herself updated on the chang- therapy, clients engage in the composition process.
er, what she stumbled upon was a job listing for the es happening in music therapy. According to Chris- Through this commitment, the brain willingly absorbs
Star Center in Jackson and an opportunity to put her sy, music therapy is an established health profession information and lessons are learned through music to
passion into action. in which music is used within a therapeutic relation- help the client resolve their struggles. Music is uni-
ship to address physical, emotional, cognitive, and versal. While one may not understand the language,
“Jackson is the epitome of its endorsed social needs of individuals. everyone can hear the same tune. Music may be the
name, ‘Hub City’ because everything is medium in which kindness, compassion, and healing
connected here,” Chrissy explained. Jackson, According to American Music Therapy Association, can unite us all.
Tennessee is conveniently located between two ma- “Clinical and evidence-based use of music interven-
jor cities--Memphis and Nashville. One doesn’t need tions help patients accomplish individualized goals
to travel far within the Hub to find amenities and within a therapeutic relationship by a credentialed
Photo by Rahul Yadav
support. Jackson is home to several religious organi- professional. Through musical involvement in a Photo by Rahul Y adav
zations, educational institutes, healthcare facilities, therapeutic context, clients’ abilities are strength-
and both indoor and outdoor activities. ened and transferred to other areas of their lives.
Research in music therapy supports its effectiveness
Chrissy knew in high school that therapeutic music in many areas such as: overall physical rehabilita-
was her calling. Educated at the University of Kan- tion and facilitating movement, increasing people’s
sas, she later completed a clinical therapy internship motivation to become engaged in their treatment,
in Texas. This exceptionally compassionate young providing emotional support for clients and their
woman became skilled in neurological rehabilita- families, and providing an outlet to express their
tion with music therapy. While music motivated her feelings.” https://www.musictherapy.org/about/
career decisions, she also found joy in nature, litera-
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