07/28/2026
It’s been a bit, but I’m still soaking in what an incredible experience it was to present at the World Congress of Music Therapy in beautiful Bologna, Italy. As I sat on the plane home, I found myself reflecting on just how special the week had been.
To stand in a room filled with music therapists and clinicians from all over the world, each bringing their own culture, experiences, and passion for helping others. It was both humbling and inspiring.
It was such an honor to present alongside Rachel Ebeling, Executive Director of The Angel Band Project, on “Reclaiming Voice and Identity: Trauma-Informed Music Therapy with Survivors of Sexual and Intimate Partner Violence.” Sharing the incredible work of Angel Band Project and the Songs of Survival program with colleagues from around the world was something I’ll never forget.
One of my favorite moments was watching the room come together during our opening and closing grounding experience. For just a few minutes, strangers from different countries became a community through breath, rhythm, and song. It was a beautiful reminder that music can be an intimate container for safe expression. It gave the phrase “music is a universal language” a whole new meaning for me.
I was deeply moved by the thoughtful conversations that followed our presentation. So many attendees shared ideas about how they hope to bring trauma-informed principles back to their own communities. Those conversations reminded me that while we may practice in different healthcare systems and cultures, our desire to create spaces of safety, belonging, and hope is something we all share.
I’m incredibly grateful to Rachel for inviting me to be part of this journey, to Angel Band Project for the life-changing work they/we do, and to every person who attended our session. I came home with a full heart, renewed purpose, and a deep appreciation for this amazing profession.
Thank you, Bologna, for an experience I’ll never forget!
