MELISSA SOMMERS, MM, MT-BC

Board-Certified Music Therapist #08171

Neurologic Music Therapist

 

Melissa Sommers became a board-certified music therapist in 2006.  She received her bachelor's degree in Music Therapy from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, and her master's degree in Music, with a focus in Neurologic Music Therapy, from Colorado State University in 2013.  Shortly thereafter, she started Harmonic Changes (Previously known as Meli Music).

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Melissa's introduction into the world of music therapy happened at a very young age.  Her youngest sister was born with a brain tumor.  Over the few years they had together, Melissa and her sister formed a very unique and strong relationship, through music.  On the toughest of tough days, Melissa quickly discovered the only way her sister would calm down was through playing piano for her.  Melissa realized she needed to start with her sister's preferred music, and wait for her to rock to the beat.  Once she was regulated and in a calmer state, then Melissa could branch into practicing her piano.  After the passing of her sister, Melissa has been passionate about using music to support others using the unique power and connection of music. 

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When she is not working, Melissa can be found running around the city of Chicago, alone or with her family! She is also completing her PhD in Expressive Therapies from Lesley University.