Rhythmic Roots Music Services, LLC provides music therapy services and adapted lesson services in the Greater Denver, CO area.
The Queenie Initiative
To develop and increase music therapy services for veterinarians, vet techs, staff, and those who are grieving a loss of a pet
In 2019, Bonnie went full time with Rhythmic Roots Music Services, LLC with nothing but her board certification and her tabby cat, Queenie. Queenie was an essential part of the creation and continuation of this business, providing moral support to Bonnie and many clients during the COVID-19 pandemic as she was the “co-therapist” during many telehealth and online music lessons. She is in many YouTube videos, social media posts, and podcast episodes. Queenie passed away on February 3rd, 2023 at the age of 18, leaving small paws to fill at Rhythmic Roots (she was a small cat with extra toes.)
Queenie valued joy, love, rest, and living each day to the fullest. Her values will be continued though Rhythmic Roots as we continue to remember her and celebrate her amazing life and the time we got to spend with her.
While grieving, Bonnie came across some distressing statistics. (TW: suicide) Did you know that "1 in 6 veterinarians have considered suicide?" Or "that suicide is more likely among veterinarians than among the general population — 1.6 times more likely for male veterinarians and 2.4 times more likely for female veterinarians?" This is partially due to the stressful aspects of their job.
Thus the idea for The Queenie Initiative was born. Veterinarians deserve to have resources for mental health support, including tailored music therapy resources for this community in need. Furthermore, pet loss in a very common but stigmatized struggle in the United States. The Queenie Initiative will also push for music therapy services to support those who are grieving a loss of a pet, especially marginalized communities where this disenfranchised grief may be exacerbated. Leaning into the lessons that Queenie taught, music therapy services to support mental health for these populations in need not only honor Queenie but will strive to bring joy, love, rest, and living life to the fullest.
Music and Meditation Services
The first project of The Queenie Initiative is to provide music and meditation services to either veterinarians or those who are suffering from the loss of a beloved pet.
If this is something you or a loved one would be interested in, please email Bonnie at bonnie@rhythmicrootsmusictherapy.org
This is a developing project with Rainbow Sound Therapy that will be provided either in the Denver area or online, depending on interest. If you are interested in online pet loss support groups, please fill out the interest form below.
[Image description: Queenie the tabby cat and Marina the dog with cartoon versions under them in front of a gold background. The logos of each company and a head shot of Bonnie and of Colleen are in the bottom right. The text reads, "Inspired By: Queenie Marina Music Meditation for Pet Loss and Veterinarian Support Bonnie Houpt of Rhythmic Roots Music Services, LLC & Colleen Christy of Rainbow Sound Therapy Call: Bonnie 678-602-1131 Colleen 954-554-3010 Email: bonnie@rhythmicrootsmusictherapy.org rainbowsoundtherapy@gmail.com"]
Impact
Sources
https://www.avma.org/javma-news/2015-04-01/study-1-6-veterinarians-have-considered-suicide
https://blogs.cdc.gov/niosh-science-blog/2019/09/04/veterinary-suicide/