meet Melody Handy, MM, MT-BC
Melody Handy is a board-certified music therapist and the founder of Symphony of Hope Music Therapy, LLC. She holds a Master’s degree in Music Therapy from Florida State University and is certified as a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit Music Therapist (NICU-MT). Additionally, she completed the CARES® Dementia Care Online Training Program, enhancing her skills in supporting individuals living with memory loss.
Her academic background features dual Bachelor's degrees in Music Performance (with a concentration in piano) and Psychology from Alabama State University. Melody’s musical journey commenced at the age of three with the piano and has since expanded to include guitar, voice, and ukulele.
As a board-certified music therapist, Melody Handy aims to share her musical gift with others, helping individuals experience joy, connection, and healing through music. Her work is rooted in evidence-based practice, clinical creativity, and a strong belief in the transformative power of music. Melody is dedicated to building robust therapeutic relationships and designing meaningful experiences that reflect each client’s unique identity and goals.
WORKING WITH MELODY
What you can expect from your music therapy session
I use a person-centered approach that incorporates client-preferred music to support each person in reaching their individualized goals. My sessions are designed to highlight strengths, build confidence, and help clients recognize their successes in the moment.
Using evidence-based music therapy practices, I offer unconditional positive regard, active listening, and a strong therapeutic relationship that helps each client feel seen, heard, and supported. I draw from a variety of approaches, including cognitive-behavioral music therapy, neurologic music therapy, and community and wellness models, to meet the diverse needs of my clients. These techniques are adaptable and chosen to best support the individual’s emotional, physical, cognitive, and social growth.
