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