Core Values
These core values drive how I practice and they shape the work that I do, While they are "guiding lights" for the present and future of my music therapy practice, they are also listed here so you can determine if we are a fit for each other. For more on related topics like statements of positionality, see the About Sam page.
Liberation
I practice with an anti-oppressive lens, and thus a lens rooted in liberation. I recognize the harm caused by systems and structures of power, and work to flip those power structures in sessions; I am not the expert on folks' lived experience, they are. I recognize oppressive systems, including those with intent to help such as therapy, medical, insurance, etc, can and do cause harm in particular to marginalized folks and their communities, and work to navigate these systems alongside my clients if necessary.
Access
I recognize that everyone has different access needs, learning styles, and communication styles, and center the needs of the folks I work with in my practice. I recognize as a virtual-only practice there are inherent barriers to who I can serve and help, as technology and internet access are not yet ubiquitous. In the future I hope to put funds toward technology access for my clients and/or for under-served and/or marginalized communities. Whenever possible, I utilize free technology resources with my clients to give them access to creative tools for mental health and wellness at the lowest possible cost.
Equity
I recognize that Equity, not 'equality' is the goal of liberation, and that measures of 'equality' and inclusion/diversity, while hugely important, are stepping stones toward equity. I recognize this in my own practice as well as in broader systems that are traditionally not equitable. To directly address this I have a number of equity-based pay scale slots available in my practice for traditionally marginalized folks.
Community
Community is key to liberation from oppressive systems, to living in a truly equitable way in which the community is bigger than the sum of its parts. Your community is valid whether they are friends you've made, people like you, your neighbors, or friends you've made online. Digital communities are valid. In the future I hope to work to build a digital community around clients who seek that, and I am open and happy to help clients find their community if they want to explore that in therapy.