Frequently Asked Questions
You have questions. I have answers.
Whether you're new to music therapy, searching for the right music teacher for your child, planning a birthday party, or looking for someone to officiate a Jewish life cycle event — you're in the right place.
Browse by topic on the right, or scroll through. Don't see what you're looking for? Reach out directly and I'll get back to you.
What is music therapy?
Music therapy is a clinical and evidence-based practice that uses music interventions to support physical, emotional, cognitive, and social goals. I use instruments, singing, movement, and songwriting to help clients express themselves, build skills, and regulate emotions.
Who can benefit?
Neurodivergent children and teens (ADHD, autism, developmental differences)
Teens and young adults struggling with anxiety or emotional regulation
Families looking for creative ways to connect and support their child's development
Music therapy
Common questions
Do I need to have musical experience?
Not at all! Music therapy is about expression and engagement, not performance. All sessions are tailored to the client's comfort and needs. No prior music experience is ever required.
How do you support neurodiverse clients?
My sessions are structured yet flexible, sensory-informed, and built around your or your child's unique strengths. I often use visuals, predictable routines, and multi-sensory tools to create a safe and engaging space.
Do you accept insurance or scholarships?
I accept the Step Up for Students scholarship. Unfortunately, no other insurance companies in Florida currently cover music therapy. I am always open to discussing alternative payment plans to find a way to make music therapy accessible for your family.
Where do sessions take place?
Most sessions are held in Miami — in-home, at partner locations like schools or clinics, or virtually. For events, I travel throughout South Florida.
What training do you have as a music therapist?
I attended the University of Miami's Frost School of Music and graduated with a Bachelor's degree in Music Therapy. During my training, I completed clinical placements in hospice, early intervention, cancer care, and PPEC settings working with children with cerebral palsy and other medical conditions. After graduating, I completed a 6-month full-time music therapy internship at an inpatient neurologic rehabilitation hospital, then sat for and passed my board certification exam to become MT-BC.
Is music therapy evidence-based?
Yes. Music therapy is a board-certified, evidence-based practice used in hospitals, schools, clinics, and mental health settings worldwide. It is backed by research in neurology, psychology, and developmental science.
How is music therapy different from art or play therapy?
Music therapy uses rhythm, melody, and active music-making to uniquely tap into the brain's emotional and language centers through sound. Unlike art or play therapy, it activates both hemispheres of the brain simultaneously, supporting emotional, behavioral, and developmental goals through a neurologically distinct pathway.
What instruments are used in music therapy?
Common instruments include guitar, piano, drums, shakers, tambourines, and the client's own voice. Instruments are chosen based on therapeutic goals — not musical skill.
Do you offer in-home or virtual music therapy sessions?
Yes. I provide flexible options for in-home and online music therapy to accommodate different learning needs, sensory sensitivities, and family schedules.
Are your services suitable for nonverbal children?
Yes. Music therapy is inherently nonverbal and highly effective for children who are non-speaking or minimally verbal. It supports connection and expression through sound and movement.
What is your approach to music therapy?
My sessions are structured yet flexible, sensory-informed, and built around each client's unique strengths. I use visuals, predictable routines, and multi-sensory tools to create a safe, engaging space where clients feel empowered to explore, express, and grow.
Can you work with the rest of my therapy team?
Yes — collaboration is a core part of my approach. I regularly coordinate with speech-language pathologists (SLPs), occupational therapists (OTs), mental health counselors, behavior analysts (BCBAs), teachers, and other professionals to ensure holistic, consistent support.
Whether your child is in early intervention, receiving school services, or working with a private team — I'm here to complement, not compete with, those efforts.
With your consent, I'm happy to:
Share progress updates and session summaries
Align goals and strategies with your existing team
Co-treat or schedule back-to-back sessions when appropriate
Participate in IEP meetings or team planning calls
How does music therapy work?
Music therapy works because music is one of the few activities that activates multiple regions of the brain at once — including areas responsible for language, emotion, movement, memory, and executive functioning. This makes it an incredibly powerful tool for therapeutic change.
Auditory + Motor Systems
Listening to rhythm and playing instruments stimulates motor planning and coordination — ideal for children working on movement or sensory integration.
Limbic System (Emotion Center)
Music taps into deep emotional processing, helping children and teens safely explore feelings, reduce anxiety, and build emotional regulation skills.
Prefrontal Cortex (Focus + Decision-Making)
Structured music activities improve attention, impulse control, and executive functioning — especially important for individuals with ADHD or developmental differences.
Language Centers
Music and singing support speech, language development, and expressive communication — even in non-speaking or minimally verbal children.
Hippocampus (Memory + Learning)
Music enhances memory and learning, making it effective for children needing repetition and structure to retain new skills.
Bilateral Brain Processing
Unlike many therapies that target one domain, music therapy integrates both hemispheres, creating stronger neural connections and increasing neuroplasticity.
Music lessons
Common questions
What instruments do you teach?
Guitar, piano, voice, and general music / music theory.
How do I know if my child is ready for music lessons?
Every child develops at their own pace, but here are a few signs to look for:
Interest in music — curiosity about instruments, singing, or dancing
Ability to focus — can follow simple instructions and stay engaged for 10–15 minutes
Fine motor readiness — beginning to use fingers with intention (pressing keys, tapping rhythms)
Emotional readiness — open to trying new things and can tolerate gentle guidance
Routine and structure — enjoys structured activities with a beginning, middle, and end
If your child isn't quite ready, music therapy or general music enrichment can be a wonderful foundation first.
When is the right age to start music lessons?
Ages 0–3 — music enrichment (singing, clapping, instrument exploration)
Ages 3–5 — early childhood music classes or music therapy; some may begin simple private lessons
Ages 5–7 — common age for structured lessons in piano, voice, or guitar
Ages 8+ — ready for full-length lessons, practice routines, and skill development
Not sure? A trial lesson or music-based assessment can help determine the best starting point.
Children's programs & classes
Music for every stage
What programs do you offer?
From infant music enrichment to group classes for older kids, my children's programs are designed to build a joyful relationship with music — whether that's a first step toward lessons, a complement to therapy, or simply a fun, developmental activity.
Programs & classes include:
Early childhood music enrichment (ages 0–5)
Group music classes for kids
School & preschool programs
Jewish early childhood music programs
Music enrichment for neurodiverse children
How are group classes different from music therapy?
Group classes focus on music enrichment, social development, and the joy of making music together. Music therapy is individualized and goal-directed, designed to address specific developmental, emotional, or behavioral needs. Many families start with a group class and move into private music therapy or lessons as their child grows.
What ages are your children's programs for?
My programs serve children from birth through early elementary age. Different classes are designed for different developmental stages — reach out and I'll help match your child to the right fit.
Do you come to schools or preschools?
Yes. I offer in-school and in-preschool music programs throughout Miami-Dade County. Whether you're a parent looking to bring music into your child's school or an administrator interested in a residency or ongoing program, reach out to discuss options.
Can children with special needs participate in group classes?
Absolutely. My classes are inclusive and sensory-informed. I create environments where all children — regardless of ability, diagnosis, or communication style — can participate, feel welcome, and thrive.
Jewish ceremonies
Officiating life's most meaningful moments
What does it mean that you're an ordained cantor?
As an ordained cantor, I don't just provide music — I officiate Jewish life cycle events in their entirety. I lead ceremonies with liturgical knowledge, musical depth, and a personal touch that honors both tradition and the unique story of your family.
What life cycle events do you officiate?
B'nai Mitzvah
Baby namings & brisses
Weddings
Funerals & memorial services
Shabbat & holiday celebrations
Conversion ceremonies
Do you work with families who are not very observant or are interfaith?
Absolutely. I meet every family where they are. Whether you're deeply traditional, culturally Jewish, interfaith, or somewhere in between — I create ceremonies that are meaningful, personal, and free of judgment. My goal is for you to feel seen and celebrated.
Can you customize the ceremony to reflect our family?
Yes — that's one of my favorite parts of the work. I take time to get to know your family, your story, and what matters most to you. I'll work with you to craft a ceremony that balances tradition and personalization, incorporating readings, songs, or customs that are meaningful to you.
Do you work across different Jewish denominations?
Yes. I'm comfortable officiating across Reform, Conservative, Modern Orthodox, and non-denominational settings, and I adapt to the traditions and customs of each family and community.
Do you travel for ceremonies?
Yes. I'm based in Miami and available throughout South Florida. I'm also open to travel for destination ceremonies — reach out to discuss your location and we'll figure out what works.
Birthday parties
Do you do birthday party entertainment?
Yes! I offer interactive music birthday parties featuring live guitar sing-alongs, bubble play, scarves, egg shakers, parachutes, and free instrument play.
Every party is tailored to the birthday child's age, interests, and theme — for kids of all ages and abilities.
"Children are immersed in music participation, dancing, and singing — celebrating in a fun, innovative way that parents and kids love."
Logistics & booking
Getting started
How do I get started?
The best first step is to reach out through the contact page. I'll follow up to learn more about you or your child, answer any questions, and help determine which service is the best fit. For music therapy, I offer a free 15-minute phone or video consultation before we schedule a first session.
How long are sessions?
Music therapy and music lesson sessions are typically 30 or 45 minutes depending on age, need, and goals. We'll determine the right session length together during your consultation.
How far in advance should I book?
For weekly music therapy or lessons, I recommend reaching out as soon as possible — my schedule fills up, especially for in-home slots. For events like birthday parties or ceremonies, I suggest booking at least 4–6 weeks in advance to ensure availability.
What areas do you serve?
I'm based in Miami and serve clients throughout Miami-Dade County for in-home sessions and lessons. For events, ceremonies, and performances, I travel throughout South Florida.
What is your cancellation policy?
I ask for at least 24 hours' notice for session cancellations. Late cancellations or no-shows may be subject to a fee. Life happens — I always try to be flexible and work with families when possible.
Do you offer sibling discounts or package rates?
Yes! I offer discounted rates for siblings receiving services and package pricing for families booking multiple sessions in advance. Reach out to discuss what works best for your family.
Still have questions?
I'd love to hear from you.
Whether you're just curious or ready to get started — reach out and I'll be in touch.
Contact meHave another question or want to learn more?
Whether you’re just curious, or ready to try your first session, please feel free to reach out and I’ll be in touch!