Amplifying Voices: The Healing Power of the “Grito” in Music Therapy
This course, Amplifying Voices: The Healing Power of the “Grito” in Music Therapy, explores the intersection of culture, identity, and healing in music therapy practices that center the expressive power of the “grito” in mariachi music. Facilitators will share insights from their work with Latine communities highlighting how reclaiming this culturally rooted vocal tradition supports emotional release, self-expression, and empowerment. The session will examine how culturally responsive, asset-based approaches to music therapy—grounded in community partnerships and agency—can foster wellness, belonging, and pride in identity. Presenters will also discuss implications for developing music therapy programming that elevate historically silenced voices.
Earn 3 pre-approved CMTEs
Asynchronous and self-paced format
This course is pre-approved by the CBMT for 3 CMTE credits.
Course Learning Objectives:
Participants will demonstrate a basic understanding of the sociohistorical role of mariachi music and its relevance for music therapy treatment (II.D.9 and III.A.5.i).
Participants will identify three clinical goals that can support the use of mariachi music and gritos in MT treatment (III.A.4.C).
Participants will critically review two composite vignettes and engage in peer discussion of culturally responsive practice (III.A.4.C).
Meet the Instructors
Cynthia Pimentel Koskela, M.Ed., MT-BC
Cynthia Pimentel Koskela is an experienced music therapist, advocate, and leader in establishing music therapy programs in a variety of settings; including but not limited to, the establishment of Esperanza Academy’s first music therapy program. She identifies as a first generation Mexican American and is an advocate for the expansion of culturally responsive music therapy services centering music as a source of collective healing justice. She is the co-founder of the Latin American Music Therapy Association, an organization dedicated to connecting Latine identifying music therapists, and currently holds a position as the inaugural clinical director for the Berklee Music and Health Institute.
Marisa de León-Oyoque, MS, MT-BC, TRS/TXC
Marisa (she/her) is a xicana music therapist in the Rio Grande Valley. She is the founder and clinical director of RGV Music Therapy and Wellness Center, a private practice specializing in culturally informed music therapy along the southernmost region of the Texas-Mexico border. She has published peer-reviewed articles that center Mexican American voices in music therapy, highlighting culturally responsive practices and underrepresented perspectives in the field.