Music
In the early 2010s, I stumbled upon and fell in love with a particular type of musical instrument—the Handpan and steel tongue drum. These instruments are both melodic and rhythmic and can be played structured and formal or improvisational and intuitive.
Aside from the wonderful therapeutic and practical benefits, if music has taught me one thing about being a better counselor; it would be the importance of active listening.
Being present, able to hear and respond to the sounds being played, the notes left out, and the silence in between translates well into counseling.
I created a musical project, featuring these instruments called ‘The Steel Appeal’.
It features the Handpan and steel tongue drums in various settings from hip-hop, jazz, the middle of the forest, and lo-fi.
Some songs may promote relaxation, others may have you tapping your foot.
Either way, I hope you enjoy and if you have any questions about this instrument, I’d be happy to answer them. Please send me an email: sthorn@thecounselingguild.com