Breakin' Strings

​

“Music for the Mind is about planting seeds that grow good humans, connection,

and healing — one note at a time”

​

The Music for the Mind Project was created to bring the power of music into programs
and places that focus on mental health, healing, and personal growth. It began with a
shared passion for helping others and a deep belief in the impact music can have on
emotional well-being. Within our personal lives and through our work in the mental
health field, we’ve seen firsthand how music can help build confidence, strengthen
connections, support healing, and give people a voice.

What started as a small, meaningful experience with a group of children in residential
care, quickly revealed just how powerful music can be. These are children who are
working through trauma and behavioral or mental health challenges. Through these
sessions, we saw increased confidence, improved emotional expression, stronger
connections, reduced aggression, and genuine moments of joy—all through something
as natural and accessible as music. For many children and individuals living with mental
health challenges, it’s not always easy to put feelings into words. Music offers a different
way to be heard—creating a safe and supportive space for expression, building
confidence, and connecting with others. These experiences became the foundation and
inspiration for wanting to expand this into more programs and communities, leading to
the creation of the Music for the Mind Project.

​

Benefits of Music
Music has a unique ability to reach places words often cannot. For children and teens—
especially those who have experienced trauma, behavioral challenges, or emotional
struggles—music provides a safe and meaningful outlet. Through rhythm, melody, and
storytelling, young people are able to process emotions, release stress, and explore a
healthy and creative outlet.
In addition to emotional expression and healing, music supports cognitive and
developmental growth. Through rhythm, repetition, and structured activities, youth
naturally build skills such as recognizing letters and numbers, following directions,
identifying patterns and improving bilateral coordination. Music creates an engaging
and hands-on way for youth to learn, making these skills accessible, enjoyable, and
meaningful. Whether a person is picking up an instrument for the first time or using
music as a way to cope with difficult emotions, each experience is valued.

​

Leadership
Music for the Mind is led by Cliff Gelina, a Nashville recording artist and lead singer of
Breakin’ Strings. With over 30 years of music experience and a background working

with youth and adults in therapeutic and residential settings, Cliff brings both skill and
heart to this program. His approach begins with a simple but powerful message: “Be a
good human.” This philosophy helps create a safe, respectful, and supportive
environment for growth.

​

Our Mission
Through the Music for the Mind Project, we provide structured yet flexible opportunities
for youth to engage in music, including but not limited to:

• Instrument exploration and guided lessons
• Songwriting and lyric expression
• Group music sessions that build connection and teamwork
• Creative collaboration

"Our goal is to create environments where children feel safe, seen, and heard. Through
music, we help them build confidence, develop coping skills, strengthen relationships,
and discover their potential. Music becomes more than entertainment—it becomes a
tool for regulation, a form of communication, and a pathway toward healing.

Music is the voice of the soul."

Feel free to reach out! You can email us at:

 MusicfortheMindME@gmail.com

​