Executive Highlight
Alison Hughey
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Director/Owner, Carolina Music Therapy
- Industry: Health / Wellness / Fitness
Business Founded: 2018
Phone: (864) 680-6985
Email: [email protected]
Address:
208 Stone Oak Ct.
Spartanburg, SC 29303
How long have you been in your industry?15 Years
Why did you choose your industry?I'm passionate about the powerful effects of music for individuals, groups and humanity as a whole. A few years after graduating with a music performance degree in 2003, I experienced a back injury. I turned to an old friend to help me cope with the pain: Music. I found myself tapping out rhythms, humming, and singing to distract myself and find hope. During this period, I met a friend of a friend who told me about music therapy as a career path, and I chose to pursue the field.
Who are your typical clients?I often work with people who have neurodegenerative diseases such as dementia. I also work with people who have experienced trauma (such as sexual abuse or assault), cancer survivors, and people with anxiety (adults and youth). I've started focusing more on the wellness space in the last five years, frequently presenting for community groups and retreats.
What do you like best about being in this industry?Music is accessible, enjoyable and non-threatening while also being a highly effective catalyst supported by research. Most clients are motivated to participate, enjoy the process and gain substantial improvements!
What are common problems you see?It is frustrating to often see mislabeling of "music therapy," or to have others assume that I must be volunteering as a musician. Just as going for a walk isn't physical therapy, listening to your favorite song isn't music therapy. There is also no one size fits all "most relaxing song ever" or healing frequency to cure all ills.
What advice/tips do you have for clients?Make a habit of listening to music you love! It's something so simple yet powerful. When we listen to a song we enjoy, our levels of dopamine and serotonin are boosted while levels of cortisol are reduced. This combination improves mood, reduces stress and associated tension, and can benefit our immune system. If you sing or "drum" along (on your body, a table or actual drum), you'll get added benefits of vagal stimulation and cross hemispheric connection for your brain.
When is your busy season?Winter holidays, in part because I'm also a performer and church music director!
What keeps you up at night?The impact of medicaid and other aid cuts to the clients, communities and organizations I serve.
How do you market yourself to grow/expand your business?Relationship building and sharing free helpful content online including a weekly Creative Catalysts zoom group. In this Monday night group (6-6:30pm), I draw a card from my Creative and Curious self care card deck (see website) and facilitate a short creative prompt (art, music, writing or movement).
How involved are you in the community?I regularly attend local art and music events, stay informed in current events and politics (and contact reps/senators with my viewpoints), and offer donation based groups.
What is your favorite not for profit or charity?Premier Arts Collective
What advice would you give to someone thinking of getting into this business?Be sure to keep your own love of music alive! It's easy to get burned out if you don't
What do you enjoy doing in your free time?Spending time with my husband collecting and listening to old vinyl, traveling, going to festivals/concerts, spending time outdoors, and having fun with family and friends.
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