Shannon studied guitar and composition at the University of British Columbia, and worked as a guitar teacher and musician for several years. She qualified as a music therapist in 2013, with an MA (Distinction) from Anglia Ruskin University in England. She practiced as a music therapist in London for six years before moving back to the West Coast of Canada in May 2019. Shannon works mainly with children and young people with a range of additional needs, including Autism Spectrum Conditions, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, and emotional and behavioural difficulties. More recently she has started working with older adults with Parkinson’s disease.

Shannon’s approach is person-centred and grounded in developmental psychology and psychoanalytic approaches. She believes in working towards established aims while also allowing space for the client to explore and express themselves musically. Shannon works with a mix of improvised music, games and familiar songs. Sessions can also include adapted music education, songwriting and dance/movement exercises.