Our Team
Margaret Gomez, Operations Manager
“My primary responsibility as Operations Manager is to ensure all aspects of the business run smoothly. I enjoy working with people, budgeting, organizing, and solving problems.
I’m completing my Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration at Goodwin University and have earned my Associates in Early Childhood Education from Tunxis Community College. I’ve worked with diverse populations in the business and customer service industries from religious institutions, educational facilities, and public as well as private transportation organizations, but this by far is my most cherished venture.
When I’m not working, I enjoy traveling, cooking, reading, working out and spending time with family and friends.”
Mellany Gomez, MT-BC, Program Coordinator & Music Therapist
"My primary responsibility as Program Coordinator is to help develop and implement programs that support the social and emotional development and literacy of our participants. As a music therapist, I facilitate both individual and group music therapy sessions and music enrichment groups to support each clients' goals and objectives.
My primary instrument is clarinet, which I've played now for about 18 years! I also enjoy performing and am proficient on piano, guitar, ukulele, voice, saxophone and many percussive instruments.
I earned my Bachelor's Degree in Music Therapy with a minor in psychology from Anna Maria College in Paxton, Massachusetts. I later became a Board-Certified Music Therapist (MT-BC) in July 2020! I've worked in both Massachusetts and Connecticut in various settings including nursing homes, schools, pediatric palliative care, adult day centers, group homes, daycares, preschools, and private practice in home and virtual. I enjoy facilitating music therapy sessions, music enrichment classes, music lessons, and working with people of all ages and abilities!
When I'm not working, I enjoy training and competing in muay thai kickboxing, spending time with friends and family, and playing video games."
Madison Howell, MT-BC, Music Therapist
"As a staff music therapist, I facilitate both individual and group music therapy sessions and music enrichment groups to support each clients' goals and objectives.
My primary instrument is voice, but I have also played the flute, piccolo, oboe, bass guitar, and violin throughout my years of being in orchestras, bands, and jazz ensembles. With my training as a music therapist, I became proficient in guitar and piano, as well as most percussion instruments.
I earned my Bachelor's Degree in Music Therapy with a minor in psychology from Marywood University in Scranton, Pennsylvania, home of The Office! I later became a Board-Certified Music Therapist (MT-BC) in July 2023. I've worked in both Pennsylvania and Connecticut in various settings including nursing homes, schools, adult day centers, group homes, preschools, and private practice in home and virtual. I truly enjoy working with every population and creating a safe and comfortable space for people to learn and grow while also learning from them! I've worked with speaking and non-speaking individuals as I continue to learn more American Sign Language (ASL) both in my own study and from my clients, and I have had the pleasure of working with Spanish-speaking families as well.
When I'm not working, I'm busy catching a Dave Matthews Band concert with my mom, training for IronMan triathlons, and going camping and hiking with my partner. I'm so excited to work with you!"
Sarah Ghonaim, Teaching Artist
Sarah is an Egyptian-American actor, writer and teaching artist for theater. She is also the founder of the upcoming workers cooperative, Ezbekkiya Productions, aimed at creating anti-oppressive theater and film productions. Her play, “Genies in a Bottle” was workshopped at Playhouse on Park after being awarded funds through Artist of Color Accelerate and CT State Artist Respond. As an actor, she recently performed in Shakespeare’s “Twelfth Night” playing Sir Toby with Escapism Productions.
Sarah has spent the last four years facilitating and cultivating theater curriculums for ages 8-21 that invite leadership, ignite creativity and empower youth. Each program fosters students’ unique talents, allows for play and movement, creates confidence and improve speaking skills. Each curriculum is specifically designed based on school/organization’s preferences.
Student spotlight!
Catherine Sigg, Music Therapy Practicum Student
"I am an undergraduate junior student in the Honors College studying music therapy at Southern Connecticut State University. My primary instrument is the flute, but I am also learning piano, guitar, percussion, and soon voice! I also play in the University Band.
I have clinically observed music therapy in group homes, working with clients who have physical and cognitive disabilities, and am currently working in a practicum setting at an alternative high school with Mellany Gomez.
This semester I am looking forward to expanding my experience with different music therapy clientele and making new connections in the music therapy industry in Connecticut. I would like to strengthen my playing abilities on piano and guitar, learn how to facilitate music therapy sessions at my practicum setting, and learn how to foster positive relationships with clients.
When I am not working or practicing music, I enjoy travelling, spending time with my family and friends, baking, and cuddling my pets!"