How to Connect with Your Therapist Through Music

Recently, I have had an influx of clients wanting me to listen to a song that in their definition “perfectly explains” what they are feeling, thinking, or current state of mind and if only I knew the song I would understand better what they're going through at the moment. I personally also couldn’t help but agree, when it is difficult to communicate what is in your heart, art has a way of showing up for us in defining ways. I also give my clients credit, it is nerve racking to share music with others for fear of them not enjoying it, receiving the same message, or not feeling as moved. 

Some of the music I recognized and some of it I genuinely would have never come across had it not been for my clients. It was an interesting experience for me to receive homework from my clients versus me assigning work between sessions. Not only was this new but very exciting to listen to these songs that range in rhythm, genre, feelings, message, time periods and much more. The exercise also opened up another level to the therapeutic process, not only did I feel more connected to my client but I also noticed that my clients felt empowered by asking for what they need or want within the session. 

I would take notes on the music given to me and bring them to our next session for my client and myself to discuss. Some of my takeaways were similar to my clients and some of them were completely missed. Together we were able to build connections between life themes, understand certain behaviors, or uncover lost feelings. I discovered Taylor Swift lyrics to exactly pinpoint the frustration my client felt towards their partner. I understood much more clearly from Tyler the Creator, how my client was struggling with their sexuality. Supertramp taught me that my client was feeling scared and struggling to take up space within their environment. Mitski was able to be an invitation in vocalizing how lonely my client feels. 

My clients were able to have a chance of taking initiative by sharing music they not only connected with but also felt deeply vulnerable. Ultimately, this piece is a loving encouragement to all individuals within their own therapy room to not only bring yourself into the space by what type of music or art you enjoy/connect to but also work on the skills of asking for what you need within an environment that can be taken out into the “real world.

Try it out and never hesitate to send me more song recs!