A Quick Note
Hello everyone! I hope all is well and life has shown you a little kindness in your days! I feel very grateful for my time at the Groovy Garfoose. Getting to know you and myself as well has been the highlight of this first half of the year!
The growth of my self confidence has really shaped my experience during this internship. My confidence had the power to be my greatest enemy or my key to freedom. At times, I’d freeze during sessions, music completely leaving my mind. But once I utilized the tips below, I began to soar!
I hope the tips and the chant below will help you during your own endeavors!


Tips for Internship
- You Deserve This
Imposter syndrome will try its best to deter you from believing in the skills you worked so hard to hone. If you did not deserve this space, you wouldn’t be in this space. Keep going! - It’s Not About You
Sometimes we as music therapists forget that we are NOT performing. We are helping our clients navigate their space, lives and creating skills. - It’s All About What They Received
This ties into the previous tip. I had a challenging time internalizing the reactions of those who I serviced. However, it was suggested that I “put myself in their shoes“. For example, being in preschool for the first time. You are hungry. Everyone is trying to make you sit in your seat. You have to share in a way you aren’t used to. A lot of change is occurring, and sometimes it can feel like you are expected to be okay with that. Listening to Stephanie Leavell’s Podcast helped me put this into practice. - Be Kind to EVERYONE, Even You
As we are all aware, not everyone is the most welcoming or friendly. It can be easy to let their habits and attitudes get to you. However, if they see you loving yourself unabashedly, as well as those around you, it will bring them even a step closer to healing the hurt in their hearts. (This also means take breaks and learn to not have shame for that need!) - Have Fun!!!
This one is obvious! Be your wonderful self and enjoy the time you spend with your clients! Make sure to live outside of music therapy as well!
Affirmation Chant
In my different ventures during internship, I am never in shortage of those who need a boost in encouragement, self affirmations, and love. This affirmation chant can be used in any group, with individuals or even for yourself! Both young and old will enjoy it!
How to:
Step 1. Create a steady beat (feel free to get creative!)
Step 2. Pick three words from the word bank
Step 3. Fill in the blank



Diamond (she/her) joined The Groovy Garfoose in February 2023 as a music therapy intern. Music has been an important part of both her community and life, and using its power to accomplish individualized goals in therapy has only brought a deeper fulfillment and joy along the journey.