Strength-Based Improvisation

Strength-Based Improvisation is a new approach that is geared for participants with any amount of improvisation experience. Participants may use the instrument of their choice, which can include percussion or voice. Non-threatening experiential opportunities are aimed at personal exploration while simultaneously learning approaches to engage clients.

Lisa Jackert, MA, MT-BC has 20 years of experience in adult/geriatric psychiatry, substance abuse, eating disorders, and wellness. Currently employed by Community Hospital of Long Beach and operates a private practice. She has been a clinical training director and past professor of Music Therapy at Chapman University. She received the award for Professional Practice at the 2005 Western Regional Conference. She is also a FAMI-candidate of the Association of Music and Imagery and has been focusing on the use of The Bonny Method of Guided Imagery and Music with infertility and pregnancy. Currently, Lisa is on the Board of Directors for the American Music Therapy Association.

Robin Rio, MA, MT-BC is professor of music therapy at Arizona State University. She also has many years of experience working with a variety of populations, including the geriatric population and the homeless. She is also is on the Editorial Board for Music Therapy Perspectives and has recently written the book: Connecting through Music: Music Therapy in Alzheimer’s and Dementia Care. Currently, Robin is serving as a member of the Ethics Board for the American Music Therapy Association and has past served the Western Region of AMTA as Vice President.