Rachel Rotert

Focus and Philosophy: Rachel Rotert believes that health professionals and students care more effectively for others when they care well for themselves. As a trauma-informed music therapist, Rotert believes that students and providers with strong wellness habits have a greater capacity to sustainably, creatively, and compassionately offer support to clients.

Rotert also believes in the power of practical, community-centered, interprofessional learning experiences for future clinicians. Within the Artis Center Clinic, Rotert works alongside faculty and students in a variety of allied health disciplines to support community members and teach students how to work collaboratively as a treatment team.

Background: Rotert began playing piano at age six and always considered music to be a crucial ingredient that enhanced her quality of life. She became curious about psychology in high school and felt torn about whether to pursue a career as a music educator or a counselor for children. Rotert became excited when she learned about music therapy as an allied health career option, since this path would combine her love for music and her drive to support others.

Rotert spent much of her early career as a music therapist with survivors of complex interpersonal trauma and children within the foster system. Rotert also provided clinical support in community mental health organizations, substance use recovery programs, and K-12 schools. Prior to her appointment at Radford University, Professor Rotert served as Expressive Therapy Manager within an inpatient psychiatric hospital. This clinical leadership role included regular supervision of students and interns, which became one of Rotert’s favorite aspects of the job. This love for teaching was the biggest factor that inspired Rotert to shift from clinical leadership to higher education.

Teaching: At Radford University, Rachel Rotert serves as Assistant Professor within the music therapy program. Rotert teaches a variety of music therapy courses to help students build practical skills and knowledge related to clinical musicianship, ethical therapeutic practice, effective treatment team collaboration, and much more. She also supervises several weekly music therapy sessions within the community and within the on-campus interdisciplinary clinic.

University Service: Outside the classroom, Rachel Rotert serves her department and university in a variety of ways. She co-leads a wellness initiative for music students and faculty, which includes a variety of events and experiences meant to support physical, mental, and relational health. Rotert also serves as editor of the monthly Be Well newsletter, which offers wellness-based information and support to all members of the College of Visual and Performing Arts. She also represents the music department on Faculty Senate and participates in the RISE committee, which works to address student food insecurity and enhance student belonging.

For more information about Rachel Rotert, please open the tabs below. If you would like a digital copy of her complete CV, please contact her at rrotert@radford.edu.