CEO and Founder of PNW Music Therapy, LLC
Seattle
Music Therapy major 2010
Hartman has come along way from her music therapy major at SPU. She is the CEO and founder of PNW Music Therapy, LCC, providing music therapy services to individuals with cancer and neurologic disorders throughout the Seattle area. In addition to her work with PNW MT, she also works as a music therapist on the surgical unit at Seattle Children’s Hospital.
How does your time at SPU connect to the work you’re doing today?
My time at SPU provided me with the opportunity to become a music therapist without having to leave the state of Washington, where I grew up. I was one of the first two students to go through the program — and while there was much ambiguity entering into a new and developing program at a university, the newness and size of the program provided me with close one-to-one support and guidance, which was irreplaceable.
Who made a difference in your SPU education?
Dr. Carlene Brown — among her many accomplishments — has developed the music therapy program at SPU. Throughout my college years, she walked by my side as I learned how to use my music to support therapeutic needs of individuals and groups dealing with a variety of disorders and diseases.
She worked endlessly to establish a program that would train the next generation of music therapists. Her drive and perseverance showed me the importance of working hard for your passion. Now I am passionate about expanding the field of music therapy in Seattle and have already come back to Dr. Brown in my post-college years for guidance and direction. She continues to teach, even when I am not (officially) her student.
What advice do you have for students about life after graduation?
Figure out what makes your heart glad and your head happy. Once you know where your passion lies, pursue it with everything you’ve got.
