10 Questions with Claire Stephensen

• What led you to choose psychotherapy or counselling as a profession?

• As a child I dreamed of being a dancer or musician and in my teens, I was drawn to health. It was during my early 20s that I realised that it is impossible to separate mental health from the arts – which led me to studying a little bit of psychology before undertaking a Masters of Music Therapy.

• Which philosophical approaches have influenced your professional/personal development?

• Having been raised in the culture of behavioural based parenting and education, this was where I started out within my professional and personal learning. However, while I was studying music therapy I was also introduced to existential and humanistic frameworks. I like to draw from both angles as I believe they both play a role. I am fascinated by the neurological and physiological elements of mental health and trauma, but I am also aware that acknowledging strengths, experiencing a secure relationship and engaging in meaningful activity are all elements that are required to stimulate a positive change in our ways of thinking, doing and being.

• Which particular aspects of health or the human journey are you interested in?

• I am most fascinated by the impact of emotional expression on our physical, cognitive, social and emotional health. When we live in a culture that is based on fear or a culture where we are encouraged to bury our emotions by escaping, pleasing or acting out, our ability to express our needs diminishes. Music and creativity help us to connect with, express and release our emotions - and through music therapy, I believe it can be shared and contained within the therapeutic relationship and space.

• What method/s do you use?

• In music therapy we can do anything from have a conversation, listen to music, write songs or create music. We might also use guided relaxation or other creative media such as pastels or collage depending on goals and immediate needs. You do not need to have music skills - as the goal is not to teach music, but rather work towards your preferred way of thinking, doing or being. You will not be forced to engage in music, however, I will support you towards your preferred method of engagement and your goals.

• When do you think the client will start to feel that progress is being made?

• There are so many elements of progress - and progress will look different for every individual. However, empowerment and hope are important aspects for me. I feel that progress is being made when a client begins to feel empowered to work with themselves (rather than against) towards their personal values and goals.

• How has therapy made you a better person?

• Studying music therapy kick-started a new era of personal development for me. I feel really fortunate to work in a field where personal development and self-care is essential. I am continually learning to be vulnerable, creative and authentic. Each person I meet either challenges or reinforces those values - and both help me to become a better person. I engage in personal therapy and supervision to allow me to work through these challenges and to experience being a "client".

• What do you like most about being a therapist?

• Working with people and music everyday. I also like that it is a job that aligns with the important things in my life: People, creativity, playfulness, curiosity, simplicity and laughter.

• Do you ever have 'bad hair' days?

• Yes - every day is a bad hair day. The older I get, the less concerned I am about it though.

• What do you think is the most significant problem we face, in the world today?

• The impact western culture has on our global health and wellbeing.

• Can you share the name of a book, film, song, event or work of art that inspires you?

• So many!! As a starting point…
  Book – Sing, & Don’t Cry by Cate Kennedy is a memoir of an Australian who volunteered in Mexico for two years. I volunteered in Mexico myself briefly – and this book began my interest in the importance of culture and community in mental health (and the role that song, dance and laughter also play).
  Film – Samsara…a film without dialogue but a brilliantly choreographed story line with moving images and music.
  Song – “I Can Only Be Me” – written by Stevie Wonder, performed by Eva Cassidy.
  Event – Live music will always move me and touch me – whether it makes me dance, laugh, sing or cry – it makes me feel alive!!