Today we’d like to introduce you to Marianela Cordoba Saborio, CEO & Clinical Director at MCS Music Therapy
Hi Marianela, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
Growing up immersed in music from a young age, thanks to my parents who enrolled me at the Instituto Nacional de la Música in Costa Rica at the age of 7, laid the foundation for my journey. Through disciplined dedication to one of the finest music programs there, I unknowingly began shaping my future. As a musician and trumpet player, I learned the values of hard work and commitment, qualities that would define my path forward.
Seeking new horizons, I applied and auditioned for an international boarding school in Traverse City, MI, despite the uncertainties of coming from a third-world country. In 2009, I received life-changing news: a full scholarship to the renowned Interlochen Arts Academy, one of the world’s more prestigious art schools. At 17 years old, I embarked on a journey to the United States alone, where the next two years became a period of discovery, achievement, and unexpected blessings.
Following my time at Interlochen, I pursued my bachelor’s degree in Trumpet Performance at Lynn University in South Florida, fulfilling a dream to continue my musical growth in the United States. It was during this transformative period that I discovered music therapy—an evidence-based healthcare profession that uses music to address cognitive, physical, emotional, and social needs. The concept of using music to positively impact others deeply resonated with me and continues to inspire me today.
Driven by a vision and guided by missions throughout my life’s journey, I pursued my master’s degree in Music Therapy with the aspiration of one day owning my own practice. My goal is clear: to lead a team at MCS Music Therapy dedicated to enhancing the quality of life and happiness of our clients and their families through the profound power of music.
My path to where I am today has been challenging, yet nothing has deterred my determination. Supported by my family’s unwavering values and having experienced the difficulties of moving to a new country at a young age, I have found the strength to pursue my dreams. As I look forward to the future, I am committed to expanding our practice and making a meaningful difference in today’s world, using music as a catalyst for healing and joy.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
My journey has been far from easy, yet it has been abundantly blessed with valuable lessons and opportunities. Each obstacle I’ve faced has served as a signal to push harder and persist, rather than giving up. Throughout my life, I’ve always strived toward future goals, both professional and personal. However, personal challenges, such as navigating a divorce, provided a profound reality check. I once envisioned a life filled with marriage, family, a home, and pets—all of which I had, only to lose it all in an instant. This experience taught me to embrace each day fully, to maintain goals while being flexible, and to navigate life’s currents with greater fluidity.
As a business owner, the journey is demanding, particularly on a mental level. Wearing multiple hats—from marketing and staff management to scheduling and exploring new opportunities—can be overwhelming. Yet, I’ve grown to appreciate every aspect of running my business. I’ve learned the importance of seeking support, seeking advice, and prioritizing my mental well-being to foster success.
Through it all, I’ve discovered that resilience isn’t just about bouncing back from setbacks—it’s about evolving, adapting, and embracing the journey with newfound wisdom and determination. Every challenge has strengthened my resolve and deepened my appreciation for the path I’ve chosen.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
A dedicated music therapy practice serving the vibrant South Florida community. At MCS Music Therapy, we harness the transformative power of music to enhance our clients’ quality of life. Rooted in the belief that music can achieve tailored, therapeutic goals under the guidance of trained professionals, we specialize in patient-centered care.
Our approach at MCS Music Therapy is deeply humanistic, prioritizing active listening, empathy, and the cultivation of trusting relationships with our clients. Through music, we address a wide spectrum of psychological, physical, cognitive, and emotional needs, awakening feelings and sensations that promote holistic wellbeing.
Led by board-certified music therapists, we offer a range of therapeutic interventions including emotional expression, creating calming environments, pain relief, improving attention spans, and fostering healthy habits. One of the amazing things about music is that it can be helpful through the lifespan. We work with clients right from birth and all the way to end of life. At MCS Music Therapy, we are committed to empowering our clients through the profound healing potential of music.
What does success mean to you?
Success, to me, is unequivocally rooted in perseverance and resilience. Life presents a myriad of challenges, as a friend wisely pointed out recently, and these challenges are essential for prompting positive transformations and personal growth. Through my own journey, I’ve found that periods requiring resilience often necessitate innovative approaches for survival. Reflecting back, these moments not only facilitated survival but also fostered substantial personal development, leading to eventual success.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.mcsmusictherapy.com
- Instagram: mcsmusictherapy
- Facebook: mcsmusictherapy
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