Catherine Backus, MT-BC

Catherine Backus is a Board Certified Music Therapist (MT-BC) with over 10 years of experience, a Virginia Licensed Music Therapist, Certified Hospice Music Therapist, and Certified Neurologic Music Therapist (NMT). She is also an award-winning songwriter with a deep passion for using music to support individuals through life’s most challenging seasons.

Catherine earned her degree from the University of Georgia and completed her music therapy internship with Four Seasons Hospice in Flat Rock, North Carolina. She later pursued advanced training through the Academy of Neurologic Music Therapy, earning her certification in Neurologic Music Therapy. She also holds a Certificate in Hospice and Palliative Care Music Therapy (HPMT), strengthening her ability to provide specialized, compassionate care for individuals and families.

Catherine began her career working with older adults and individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in adult day settings. Her professional journey eventually brought her to Anderson Music Therapy Services, where she continues to combine clinical expertise with heartfelt connection. She is especially skilled in supporting individuals with dementia, age-related conditions, advanced illness, and end-of-life needs through evidence-based music therapy interventions.

Music has been part of Catherine’s life from the very beginning. She has been singing since before she could talk and began writing songs on guitar at the age of twelve. Today, she plays a wide range of instruments including guitar, trumpet, piano, banjo, mandolin—and is known for being an incredible guitar teacher.

While her musical style often connects naturally with older adults (who doesn’t love a great jazz standard?), Catherine loves making music with people of all ages and believes every person deserves meaningful connection through music.

Fun fact about Catherine: She's a native East Tennesseean who loves Pat Summitt and Dolly Parton with all her heart!