Joanna Kirby

Until recently, I have been quite splintered.  For a few years, I juggled multiple gigging ensembles, booking entertainment, and working as a music therapist. In August of 2008, I realized that something had to give.  First I reorganized my work days. I chose to work a 4 day/ 40 hr week, so that I could play music on Friday/Saturday.  Then I cut back to part time (32 hrs/week).  Finally I decided, since I was already half working for myself, I may as well go all the way. So, I began researching private practice MT and in August 2009, I made the leap.  So far, so good. Some days are busy with music therapy appointments and administrative odds and ends. Other days are quite flexible, allowing time for writing, learning new music and yoga.  All in all, I am really enjoying this new found balance.

Given these changes, I am reorienting this online publication to include more information about music therapy and the practice I maintain here in Harrisburg, PA.

Over the past two months my life has taken on new shape and responsibilities.  After nearly a year of planning and considering the leap from employee to sole proprietor, on August 31, 2009, I launched a private music therapy practice in midtown, Harrisburg.

With help, I chose to develop a professional music studio and library in the front room of my home where I provide music therapy treatment and music lessons.  The music room contains a library of song and instructional materials as well as a drum kit, Rhodes piano, several guitars, ukulele, metalophone, a multitude of hand and Latin percussion instruments, a didgeridoo, an ektara, and several djembe drums.

So far, I am providing individual music therapy treatment to several clients each week.  The clients who have followed me over the years have transitioned well to the new setting and continue to make steady progress toward their goals.  I have also picked up a few new clients and  two exceptional music students.  I find that in this new setting, I am able to offer my clients and students more choices and facilitate higher quality experiences.  Since I am no longer a mobile therapist I am able to contribute more time to planning and preparing session materials for each individual.

The most challenging obstacles in this venture seem to be working with medicaid, learning to use my accounting software, and finding affordable health care. I believe that I can over come these with practice, patience, and phone calls.  I look forward to the days when these measures become “old hat.”