Beyond the Stage: What Musical Theatre Taught Me About Being a Therapist

Written By Maya Owens MFTC

Before discovering that I wanted to become a therapist, my childhood was spent singing, acting, and falling in love with musical theatre. From a young age, I was drawn to storytelling, and I became fascinated with the way that emotions and stories can be expressed through music. As I look back on my journey towards choosing to become a therapist, I believe that my experience in musical theatre helped to lead me in this direction. It has taught me valuable lessons that have shaped me both as a human and as a therapist. Musical theatre taught me so much more than just how to be a performer. It taught me about emotion, vulnerability, support, and the importance of each person’s story.

The Importance of a Supportive Environment

When I look back at my experience in theatre, I realize that one of the most meaningful parts of the experience was having supportive people around me who created a safe and nonjudgmental environment for me to express myself. I wouldn’t have been able to grow as effectively as a performer if it weren’t for the people who surrounded me. Their encouragement and kindness impacted me in many ways. Because it was so special to explore and take risks in this type of community, the importance of being supported has become a significant value that I carry through my life. This value is a large part of what led me to choosing therapy as a profession. 

“I wouldn’t have been able to grow as effectively as a performer if it weren’t for the people who surrounded me.”

Creating a safe and nonjudgmental environment for others is essential to the therapy process, but I will always place special emphasis on maintaining this type of space for my clients. My own experiences have shown me the power that compassionate, nonjudgmental support can have. While I am no longer creating this support in a theatre setting, its impact remains the same in all aspects of my life. Musical theatre taught me about the importance of a supportive environment, and I am grateful to be able to carry this value with me into the therapy room.

The Importance of Vulnerability

Meaningful storytelling happens with vulnerability. Connecting to real and deep emotion is what transforms lines on a page into art that is moving. To be able to express this type of authentic emotion on stage is vulnerable, but it is essential to creating impact. I have so much respect for the musicians and actors who are willing to be vulnerable despite their fears because it will always create deeper connections and purposeful storytelling. Especially as I was growing up, it took time for me to learn how to let me guard down and fully open up as a performer. 

The lessons that I have learned about vulnerability during my time in musical theatre are incredibly important to me as a therapist. My experiences have taught me that it takes courage to express genuine emotion to others, and that vulnerability is a strength. I strive to honor the courage it takes for clients to be vulnerable and authentic in therapy. I carry this understanding with me so that I can create a space where vulnerability can lead to growth.

The Importance of Stories

One of the reasons that I love musical theatre is because I love that audience members can learn something from each character’s story. By pairing these stories and the emotions behind them with music, musical theatre connects with people in a way that makes us feel seen, and the stories on stage can connect with our real life experiences. 

The time that I have spent studying characters and storytelling has led me to value each person’s story in life outside of the stage. Our experiences as humans and the stories we share have shaped who we are. This value contributes to my passion for family systems theory, which is a lens to therapy that prioritizes where we come from and the context that surrounds us. There is so much more to a person than what is directly in front of us, and I value the stories and experiences that have shaped my clients.

Bringing the Stage to the Therapy Room

While I no longer participate in theatre the way that I used to, I now use what I have learned from the experience everyday as a therapist. The opportunity to create a safe space, honor vulnerability, and hear client’s stories is very important to me. Understanding emotion, stories, community, and empathy in musical theatre has led me to where I am today.

“If vulnerability, storytelling, and a supportive environment are values of yours, reach out and see if our therapy services are the right fit for you!”
Maya Owens MFTC

Hi there! My name is Maya and I work with individual kids, teens, and adults, as well as couples and families. My approach is rooted in empathy, authenticity, and creating a safe, nonjudgmental space for growth and exploration. I believe deeply in each person’s innate capacity for positive change. I understand that each individual’s journey is unique, and I am committed to meeting you where you are.

With a background in both musical theatre and psychology, I’ve come to value the profound impact of storytelling, creativity, and human connection. This led me to earn my Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Regis University, where I cultivated my passion for systemic therapy. The primary modalities that inform my approach include Emotionally Focused Therapy and Narrative Therapy. I view therapy as a journey towards self-compassion, empowerment, and fostering deeper connections. I am passionate about hearing your personal story and developing a collaborative relationship to promote healing and growth.

When I am not in session, you can find me spending time in the mountains, seeing live music, singing, cooking, crafting, and spending time with my family and dogs!

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