Overcoming Anxiety (Lessons from Columbus, OH)

I'm currently at the AMTA Great Lakes Region Conference here in Columbus, and even amidst the excitement, I'm experiencing a familiar wave of anxiety. Talking with colleagues and representing Melodic Mentor, I find myself questioning, "Am I conveying my message effectively? Am I truly prepared?"

This feeling, I realize, is very similar to the anxiety many aspiring music therapists face when preparing for the Music Therapy Board Certification Exam. That sense of "Am I ready?" or "Will I succeed?" can be overwhelming, and make you feel like you don't belong.

Being here, surrounded by professionals, I'm reminded of the immense pressure exam candidates face:

• Exam Anxiety: "Will I recall all the information? What if I freeze during the exam?"

• Performance Pressure: "Will I be able to effectively demonstrate my knowledge?"

• Professional Identity Concerns: "Am I on the right path? Will I succeed as a board-certified music therapist?"

  
  

But remember, even when you feel like you don't belong, you bring something valuable. I never imagined that a girl who grew up in a tiny unincorporated town right outside of Charleston, West Virginia, would be here with so many other professionals, as a business owner helping other students with something I struggled with at one point.

Just like I'm reminding myself now, here's what you need to remember:

• Anxiety is normal. Everyone, even seasoned professionals, experiences it.

• Your preparation and dedication matter. You've invested time and effort, and that counts.

• You have the resilience to overcome challenges. You're stronger than your doubts.

• You bring something unique and valuable. Your perspective and experiences matter.

  
  

Strategies for Managing Certification Exam Anxiety (What I'm Learning Right Now)

As I navigate my own anxieties at this conference, I'm using strategies that directly apply to the exam experience:

1. Deep Breathing and Mindfulness: When anxiety hits, I take a moment for deep breaths to regain focus. This is essential before the exam.

2. Strategic Preparation: Investing Time for Future Success: My prepared exhibitor materials and booth are a testament to the importance of planning. This didn't come together overnight, or even in a week. It took significant time and forethought. Similarly, thorough exam preparation is crucial. Give yourself the gift of time to prepare. Your future self will thank you for the effort invested today.

3. Recognizing Shared Experiences: Seeing others experience similar anxieties reminds me we're all in this together. Exam candidates are not alone in their struggles.

4. Seeking and Providing Encouragement: Positive interactions fuel my confidence. Encouragement from mentors and peers is vital for exam takers.

   
   
   
   

   

   
   
   
   

Melodic Mentor: My Support for Your Exam Success

Even here, at a professional conference, I'm thinking about aspiring board-certified music therapists. At Melodic Mentor, I understand the unique pressures of the music therapy board certification exam. I'm here to provide:

• Targeted certification exam preparation resources.

• A supportive community to navigate the challenges.

  
  

If you're feeling anxious about the certification exam, know that I'm here to support you. I'll help you build the skills and confidence you need to succeed.

Warmly,

Kayla Stubblefield-Williams, LPMT, MT-BC