Word of the Week: ENDURANCE

Word of the Week: ENDURANCE

I drew this word of the week during a very appropriate time! I am now shifting from co-treating and taking data to planning and leading music therapy sessions on my own. My mindset is changing, and so is my endurance level. Going to school for music therapy takes one type of endurance, but actually practicing music therapy takes another type completely! Many music therapists experience something called “burnout”- it turns out that devoting your time and energy to other individuals can take a toll on your soul and mind after a while! I found this blog post, from MT-BC Roia Rafieyan’s blog The Mindful Music Therapist, to be a nice exploration on the reasons for MT burnout. In her blog, Roia also mentions this article by Ryan Howes, which gives insight to psychotherapy burnout, and ways to cope. It makes sense that while we put time and energy into the well-being of others, it is important to take care of ourselves too. I hope to keep these things in mind as I pursue my career in music therapy!

-Marjie