Because end-of-life work is deeply intimate, I do not offer professional services to friends or family members. The process of recording a heartbeat is a meaningful intervention that involves witnessing, memory-making, and carries significant emotional and symbolic weight. Maintaining clear professional boundaries helps protect both the integrity of the therapeutic space and my personal relationships. For animals, services may be considered on a case-by-case basis depending on the nature of the request. In some situations, this work may be more supportive or legacy-focused rather than clinical music therapy. I am always happy to connect loved ones with trusted colleagues when appropriate.

I am fluent in Tagalog and am able to provide services in Tagalog. For other languages, I can use translation tools to communicate with clients or families to gather information about their loved one. Written materials can be translated as well.  However, in collaborative songwriting in a language other than English or Tagalog, I work with an outside consultant to ensure that lyrics are accurate, meaningful, and properly pronounced before recording. Because of this, services in other languages may involve increased fees. Please reach out to discuss your specific needs.

Yes, I can. However, any musical presence I provide in hospice or end-of-life settings falls within the scope of music therapy. Even when the intention is simply to offer live music, the work remains therapeutic in nature and is approached with the same clinical care and intention. Please reach out to discuss your needs so I can determine the appropriate structure and provide my rate.

Music Therapy is the clinical and evidence-based use of music interventions to accomplish individualized goals within a therapeutic relationship. This means sessions may involve playing instruments, listening, or creating music; but the goals are always therapeutic, such as supporting emotional expression, reflection, or processing difficult experiences. We assess clinical needs to ensure the interventions are tailored to support each individual’s emotional, psychological, and physical goals. Board-Certified Music Therapists (MT-BCs) have specialized training, complete clinical internships, and follow professional and ethical standards to provide safe, supportive care. Music Therapy may also incorporate elements of sound, vibration, or mindful listening, but always within a structured therapeutic framework. Sound healing generally uses music or sound for relaxation or well-being without formal credentialing or targeted therapeutic goals. Listening to music on your own can be comforting, but Music Therapy provides intentional interventions to support emotional, psychological, and physical needs.

Yes. I have experience working with children, and much of my early clinical training was in pediatric palliative care. My practice supports clients of all ages—including children, adults, and even pets—using music to encourage emotional expression, reflection, and processing.

Collaborative songwriting allows clients or their loved ones to create an original song as a meaningful keepsake. During the session, I speak with the client or family to learn more about the person the song honors. These can be memories, lessons, or qualities they want to celebrate. Using this information, I draft lyrics and share them with the client or family for approval. Once approved, I record the song (usually guitar and vocals) using the approved lyrics, typically set to a melody of a song chosen by the client or family.  This process can also support someone who is creating a legacy song for the family they leave behind, providing a meaningful way to reflect, express, and preserve memories through music.

No, I do not bill insurance. Services are offered on a private-pay basis, and can be paid through Zelle, Venmo, cash, or check. Payment is collected at the time of the recording.

Session length depends on the needs of each client, but my standard rate covers a one-hour visit which can include the heartbeat recording, collaborative songwriting, or another music therapy intervention. If additional time is needed, an extra fee will apply.

No, you do not need any prior music training or experience. Services are designed to be accessible and supportive for all clients, regardless of musical background.

Yes. Consultations and collaborative song writing sessions can be done via phone or Zoom.