Get to know me
Ellie Bautista, LMFTA, MT-BC
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Associate
Board-Certified Music Therapist
she/her
Location: Durham, North Carolina and surrounding area
My story
Growing up a pastor’s kid, it was common for me to attend funerals and memorial services beginning at a young age. In this space I began to understand these services not only as a space to say goodbye, but as a place to recount stories, draw close, and help carry the burden of grief alongside those who had lost their dear one. There was laughter, there were tears, there was everything in between. And I learned to hold space for it all.
I attended Appalachian State University where I received my bachelor’s degree in Music Therapy. My career as a music therapist has centered mostly around hospice where it has been my distinct honor to support many end-of-life journeys through music. I have also completed several trainings related to grief and loss and am a Certified Compassionate Bereavement Care Provider. Most recently, I received my master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy from Arizona State University and have since returned to my home state of North Carolina where I work as a therapist supporting individuals and families navigating chronic and/or terminal illness.
In my work as a hospice music therapist, it has been my greatest honor and privilege to provide music at countless memorial services for the dear patients I have known and for whom I have helped care. It is my ongoing passion to support families as they navigate grief and loss, recognizing each experience as unique as the next. I am thankful for every opportunity to be invited into that space. Thank you, in advance, for trusting me to bring music to the mystery and magnitude of this moment.
My philosophy
“With all that I am, and all that I have, I honor you.”
This phrase has often been incorporated in to the marriage vows I witnessed my dad perform growing up. As I tried to put into words what I want you to know about me, I found this phrase ringing in my ears.
This is how I approach my role as a musician entering this space. I bring to this work an understanding of grief and loss, a capacity for compassionate presence and unconditional empathy for how difficult this time is. In addition, I bring years of professional musicianship and the ability to skillfully bring music into this space. I want you to know that when I provide music for you and you family, it will be with all that I am and all that I have that I will honor your late loved one.