Nicole Bakker
Hi, I’m Nicole!
I’m a board-certified music therapist and certified K–12 music educator based in Denver, Colorado. My journey into music therapy began long before I earned my master’s degree in 2017—it started with a lifelong love of music and a deep desire to care for others.
Growing up, I studied voice, dabbled in piano, and later picked up the guitar. But it was during a volunteer trip to a children’s hospital in Israel at age 16 that I truly understood the power of music. Standing in a room full of children and their families, I began to sing—and everything changed. The room fell silent, and I could feel music creating a moment of connection, calm, and healing. That was when I knew: music could make a difference, and I wanted to be part of that.
Since then, I’ve had the privilege of working with a wide variety of clients and in diverse settings, including three years teaching music in Denver Public Schools. Today, I bring a person-centered approach to both therapy and education, building strong, trusting relationships with each client, student, and family I serve.
I believe music is a powerful tool for growth—and that everyone deserves a safe, supportive space to explore, learn, and thrive. Thanks for stopping by—I can’t wait to meet you and begin your musical journey together.
Nicole’s Experience
Masters in Music Therapy from SUNY New Paltz, NY. 2017
Board Certified Music Therapist
Certified Music Educator in Colorado, K-12
Internship at The Center for Discovery in Harris, NY working with children with autism and developmental disabilities using a Nordoff- Robbins (improvisational) music therapy approach.
Part time music therapist at The Center for Discovery in the adult residential program
Music therapist in a skilled nursing home for Veterans
Music therapist in a day habilitation center for adults
Music therapist (mostly in home) working with children with developmental disabilities and life limiting illnesses. CES & CLLI waivers
Music Educator and music therapist in Denver Public Schools