“Music Heals” Campaign Works to Combat Substance Abuse

William Shakespeare wrote “If music be the food of love, play on.” Now, one woman is using that as a motto for her work in working with those battling substance abuse.

Jennifer Hazen-Coyne is an outpatient substance abuse and mental health counselor at Arbor place in Menomonie and has used music in her therapy with patients.

“I have seen music help a lot,” Hazen-Coyne said to WEAU 13 News on Thursday. “Music can help us get in touch with and express emotions that may be difficult or hard to identify.”

Jennifer is also a recovering alcoholic – now sober for 25 years. She says this power of music has helped her get on the path to sobriety and works to have this connection made with her clients.

Jennifer started “Music Heals” to work into her treatment, procuring guitars and a piano. Now, she wants her treatment to go to a different beat.

“I have been doing drum circles in groups and the feedback that I’ve got from clients – things like ‘I didn’t think about using once.’ and how calm and soothed they felt after the drum circle,” she said.

So far, Jennifer’s campaign has raised over $2,000 and her hope is with each donation comes another life revitalized with the sound of music – as well as another life put on the path away from substance abuse.