Why Serenade Music Therapy? A calm, strengths-based approach for children, teens, and families

In the world of therapy, names matter. They hold meaning. They set intention. They quietly communicate what kind of space you are stepping into. I chose the name Serenade Music Therapy very intentionally. The word serenade is rooted in the idea of the serene—something clear, calm, and peaceful. In a world that is often loud, chaotic, and over-stimulating, I wanted to create a music therapy practice for children, teens, and families that acts as a counterweight: a space where safety, regulation, and connection come first.

The Evolution of My Music Therapy Practice

My approach to music therapy sits at the intersection of medical science and somatic, creative work. It has been shaped by years of experience supporting children and adolescents with diverse needs—and by a belief that therapy should support the whole family.

The Foundation: Clinical Experience with Children

My career began in a children’s hospital, where I developed a strong clinical foundation and a deep understanding of how trauma, illness, and chronic stress impact the developing nervous system. This experience informs how I work with children and teens who may experience anxiety, emotional dysregulation, sensory overwhelm, or difficulty with communication.

The Spark: Voice, Theater, and Expression

Alongside my clinical background, I bring training in theater and vocal performance into my work. I view the voice not just as a musical instrument, but as a powerful tool for emotional expression and nervous system regulation—especially for children and teens who may struggle to express themselves with words alone.

More Than Music: A Somatic, Family-Centered Approach

At Serenade Music Therapy, sessions are about more than making music. They are about working with the body and nervous system in a developmentally responsive way. A somatic approach recognizes that experiences—especially stress and overwhelm—live in the body. Through music, movement, rhythm, breath, and creative play, I help children and teens shift out of fight-or-flight and into a state of safety and connection. For families, this work supports co-regulation, deeper understanding, and more meaningful connection at home. Music therapy becomes a bridge—supporting emotional regulation while creating space for creativity, joy, and relationship.

Belonging, Not “Fixing”

Many families come to music therapy feeling defined by a diagnosis or by what their child is struggling with. My philosophy is different.

Serenade Music Therapy is not about fixing what is “wrong.” It is a strengths-based, neurodiversity-affirming approach that focuses on what is already present and meaningful. I work with children, teens, and families to create a therapeutic space where curiosity, autonomy, and connection are honored.

When children feel safe, they can explore.
When teens feel understood, they can express themselves.
And when families feel supported, true connection can grow.

This is where a sense of belonging emerges—one that no diagnosis can define.

An Invitation to Families

Serenade Music Therapy is an invitation to slow down in a fast-moving world.
To find moments of calm and clarity.
To reconnect through music, creativity, and relationship.

If you are a parent or caregiver seeking music therapy for your child or teen, or looking for a therapeutic approach that supports the entire family, I invite you to step into this space.

Here, we make room for safety.
For creativity.
And for your song.