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As a 22-year-old woman of Puerto Rican and Italian descent, my journey in music therapy has been a unique blend of cultural richness and intergenerational connection. I have always believed in the power of music to transcend barriers, and this belief has guided me in my practice, whether I’m working with children, adults, or senior citizens.
One of my most recent cherished sessions that I crafted alongside colleagues was called "Music Around the World." In this session, I incorporated songs from various cultures- Ireland, Germany, Cuba, Mexico, Austria, South Korea, and as well as my own culture, and shared this music with my residents. This not only allowed me to introduce the beautiful melodies and rhythms of music from my culture, but also created a space for my residents of different cultural backgrounds to reminisce and connect with the music they grew up with. It's a magical experience to see eyes light up and memories resurface as familiar tunes fill the room.
I have had various clinical placements during my undergraduate coursework at Rowan University in Glassboro, NJ. I have had the joyous opportunity to do music therapy with children, adults, and senior citizens. Working with children, I find that there’s pure joy, enthusiasm, and innocence. They are always eager to interact, play different instruments, and sing along to music with me. Their openness and energy make every session a delightful adventure. However, as I transitioned into working with adults and senior citizens, I encountered a different dynamic. Despite the warmth and engagement from many, I also faced minor microaggressions, often linked to my identity as simple as being a young woman. These experiences, though challenging, have taught me resilience and adaptability. I’ve learned to navigate these situations with grace, ensuring that the therapeutic environment remains positive and inclusive to all of my residents.
Music therapy, for me, is more than a profession; it’s a calling to bring harmony and understanding across different ages and cultures. Each session reaffirms my belief in the unifying power of music and inspires me to continue sharing my cultural heritage while embracing the diverse backgrounds of those I have the privilege to work with.
Maia Morales (she/her/hers)
Rowan University ‘24
B.M. in Music Therapy & Minor in Psychology
CAT Intern at Living Branches
