Jonathan Cousins - Booth

Director of Education and Professional Affairs

Before training as a Music Therapist, Jon served for 8 years in the Royal Marines Band Service as a Clarinettist alongside holding a medical/military support secondary role . A personal experience of Music Therapy led Jon to explore the profession further, in particular the impact of Music Therapy with complex trauma. Following graduating from the Guildhall School of Music & Drama Jon has worked across charity, freelance and NHS sectors and has comprehensive experience in developing and commissioning new services. Alongside his role at BAMT Jon works for the NHS in Forensic Adolescent Mental Health & is the Creative Therapies Strategy Lead for the trust. Jon has experience working in a wide range of clinical areas however his main body of work has been focused around; adolescents, complex trauma, mental health and children in care or separated from their family system.

Jon has been involved in BAMT in various capacities since 2017. Initially as a volunteer but then as a trustee, Vice-Chair and in 2019, acting Chair. A position he held until leaving the board in July 2021. During his time with BAMT Jon has represented the profession at Parliamentary meetings and high profile NHS events as well as contributing to Music Therapy policy and guidance. One of highlights of Jon’s career so far was Chairing the organising committee for the Belfast 2020/21 conference where despite the in-person conference being postponed due to covid he led a team to re-plan and deliver a highly successful virtual conference to over 600 delegates.

Jon lives on the South Coast with his wife and son (Megan & Reuben). In his spare time he enjoys supporting Lincoln City FC, making music in his Baroque Ensemble & Concert Band, and sailing on the solent.