Qualifications
- Certificate III Financial Service, Commonwealth Bank of Australia, 2003
- Bachelor of Arts (Liberal Arts and Sciences/ Music), Utah State University, Utah, USA, 1997-2002
- Associate of Science (Music), Snow College, Utah, USA, 1994-1997
Biography
Melissa is originally from the United States. She was raised in rural farming communities in Utah. Education has always been a high priority and music has always been a passion which eventually became the subject of study at university. During her university studies however, it became apparent that her dream of becoming a professional musician would not be. While volunteering in South Africa she met the love of her life. They were later married and she migrated to Australia.
Migrating to Australia has provided many joys and challenges. Life in Tasmania mirrors rural life in Utah in many aspects. Since living in Launceston four beautiful children have graced the Terry household with their own unique personalities. The complexities of becoming a mother in a new country without family or close friends presented challenges but has led to further musical education and more recently, research.
Current Study
Title of Research: Music as a therapeutic tool for women with postnatal depression in rural Tasmania
Melissa’s research will focus on exploring the experiences of women in rural Tasmania with postnatal depression (PND) and understanding what role music plays in alleviating PND symptoms. It has been suggested that rural Australian women are more likely to experience PND compared to their urban counterparts. Poor access to mental health services is a major obstacle for the treatment of PND in rural areas. Most treatments for PND require consultation by a specialist such as psychologist or psychiatrist, however complimentary or alternative therapies are the exception. Music therapy is one such therapy and has been trialled with success in several studies relating to clinical depression throughout the lifespan. Music as an instrument of healing has been understudied and underused however, shows promise as an easily accessible form of intervention for alleviating depression symptoms.
Supervisors
- Dr Heather Bridgman-Lecturer in Rural Mental Health, Centre for Rural Health, University of Tasmania
- Mr Stuart Auckland-Lecturer, Program Manager, Centre for Rural Health, University of Tasmania
- Dr Quynh Lê-Lecturer, Graduate Research Coordinator, Centre for Rural Health, University of Tasmania
