Kyler is Anderson Music Therapy's most recent member to join our music therapy team!
Music has been a big part of Kyler's life, so much that she pursued a career in music therapy. She's gearing up to take her board certification exam next week and officially become a board certified music therapist!
Kyler completed her internship at Prisma Health in Columbia, SC where she worked in behavioral health and medical care. During that time led groups on the psychiatric units and individual sessions with medical and NICU patients.
Fun Fact: In high school, Kyler and her friend created a Youtube channel where they posted covers!
Read the interview below to find out more about how Kyler got to where she is today!
What did you want to be when you grew up?
Growing up I watched a lot of tv shows and movies, especially ones that were about first responders and lawyers. My whole life the concept of helping others has been one of the highest values of mine. I always fantasized about being a detective or firefighter, helping others. I was always the kid that was very kind and did nice things for others.
I love animals so there was also a moment where I really want to be a veterinarian. At that time I really wanted to be surrounded by a bunch of animals.
How did you learn about music therapy?
In high school I loved playing music with my friend, singing in choir, and acting in musicals. At the time I was enjoying my AP Psychology class (Thank you Mrs. Clark Evans), so I sat down with my uncle one day and we searched music and psychology together online and music therapy came up! My family and I had no idea what music therapy was, so we started to read up on it. Shortly after, I learned more about music therapy when I shadowed a music therapist at a VCU Hospital.
From that day I knew music therapy was the career I wanted!
Why did you want to become a music therapist?
I knew I wanted to do something with music, but I also knew I wasn’t interested in music education or music business. When I learned about music therapy and shadowed a music therapist, I knew music therapy was the path for me. During my undergrad I was amazed by the profession and the impact it makes on all individuals. I wanted to become a music therapist because the profession gave me exactly what I was looking for: music and helping others.
Two thing I love, two things I cherish, two things I live by every single day, two things I want to share more of with the world.
What is your favorite thing about being a music therapist?
Having the opportunities to help others by giving them tools they can use in their lives to gain more autonomy and being able to connect with them through music.
If you weren’t a music therapist what would have been your career path?
Probably an artist. I would be writing my own songs, recording music, putting my music out in the world for others to listen to. I’ve always dreamed about going on tour and performing at concerts. Maybe it will happen one day in the future.
You're a new addition to the crayon box. What color would you be and why?
I would be purple because it is my favorite color. Purple is a strong color that can signify power but it is also gentle and delicate.
What is your favorite Pop/Rock song?
Unbreakable Smile by Tori Kelly. In life there’s always going to be others that want you to change so you can showcase a better image or criticize you on aspects of yourself because they don’t like it. You don’t have to give in to those people. Each individual person is unique. When I listen to this song it tells me to keep being myself because I’m me for a reason. Tori Kelly is my favorite artist. She has great music and an amazing voice!
WELCOME TO THE TEAM, KYLER!!!!