Do you work with people one-on-one?

Yes I do, on a case-by-case basis. I have helped musicians of all skill levels and backgrounds recover from injury, develop healthier practice habits, and overcome unhealthy perfectionism.

All sessions are offered virtually. The initial occupational therapy evaluation is 90 minutes and costs $175. Following the evaluation you are provided with a detailed report of assessment findings and recommendations which can be provided to your physician. Additional sessions are 30-60 minutes and start at $50.

If you would like to learn more about my services before scheduling an evaluation, I do offer a free 15 minute phone consultation. You may also text me if that is preferable to you. If you are interested in this free consultation, click here

Areas of Expertise:

• 360 degree biomechanical / ergonomic analysis

• upper extremity rehabilitation

• development of safe return-to-play program

• ergonomic adaptations to instrument

• executive functioning coaching

• concussion rehabilitation

  
  

do you offer workshops for non-marching arts ensembles?

Yes! I provide workshops on injury prevention and mental wellness for all types of performing artists including classical musicians, conductors, pianists, dancers, actors, and more. I have been a guest lecturer at college of music symposiums and presented at national high school arts camps. If you think your performers would benefit from a workshop on injury prevention (they would!), please feel free to reach out to see if I would be a good fit.

What is occupational therapy and how does it help musicians?

Occupational therapy (OT) is a person-centered, holistic healthcare profession dedicated to helping people of all ages perform their meaningful everyday activities (i.e., “occupations”) to the best of their ability. OTs help people with the most basic everyday tasks like relearning how to get dressed after having a stroke to something as complex as playing a musical instrument while recovering from a hand injury or coping with performance anxiety.

OTs are trained to assess many different factors that could be limiting a person’s performance such as physical limitations (e.g., range of motion, pain, weakness), cognitive difficulties (e.g., executive dysfunction, memory issues), psychological challenges (e.g., anxiety, depression) and environmental factors (e.g., social environment, culture, resources). This information allows the OT to develop an effective treatment plan with creative solutions. For example, OTs are experts in assistive devices and may recommend ergonomic adaptations to the instrument in addition to an exercise program to strengthen muscles. When working with musicians, OTs consider the musician’s body, mind, and environment to create a holistic treatment plan.

In sum, OTs help you adapt so you can do what you need to do/love to do in the healthiest way possible.

How far ahead do i need to book a clinic?

For the Fall Marching Band season: Clinics start booking out in May. Book by June/July to reserve your dates for band camp.

For the WGI season: Clinics start booking out for the upcoming WGI season in September/October. For WGI, I recommend doing a clinic at one of the first weekends after the line has been set.

For the DCI season: Book by February/March. I recommend doing a clinic at one of the camps closer to move-ins or in the first couple days of move-ins.

do you offer virtual Clinics?

Yes! Please contact me at awatson@thewellmusician.com for more information.