Meet Miriam Lamb | Marriage and Family Therapist and Aspiring Songwriter

We had the good fortune of connecting with Miriam Lamb and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Miriam, can you share a quote or affirmation with us?
Music possesses a unique power to convey truths and inspire change. As Jimi Hendrix profoundly stated, “Music doesn’t lie. If there is something to be changed in this world, then it can only happen through music.”
Throughout my life, music has been a transformative force. Growing up, I embraced a wide range of musical genres. However, as a young African-American girl with a passion for heavy metal, I often faced teasing. Despite this, the lyrics provided solace during challenging times, including experiences of bullying and feelings of not fitting in.

In my adult years, crafting and writing my own lyrics has become a cathartic practice, offering deeper self-understanding and insight into the world’s complexities. Winning a guitar last year further illuminated music’s healing properties, aiding me in managing health issues, alleviating anxiety, and fostering personal transformation.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I grew up in Northern Virginia, with a brief stint in the Midwest and other parts of the DC area before settling into a comfortable suburb. From an early age, I always marched to the beat of a different drummer—something that was both a blessing and a “curse.” While staying true to myself, I encountered my share of bumps along the road. I’ve always been inquisitive, questioning the meaning of life and my aspirations from a young age. My parents encouraged me to embrace the beauty of different cultures and ways of being, so I frequently attended cultural events, music performances, and was immersed in the arts. I went to operas and symphonies, but also attended heavy metal shows as well as many other genres. My curiosity knew no bounds, and I was always seeking to learn more about life and the world.

After college and graduate school, I moved to California and spent 25 years there, learning a great deal about life, authenticity, and the constant process of growth and change. It was during this time that I had an intense spiritual experience, which significantly shaped my work in the field of transpersonal psychology, particularly in the mind-body realm. This experience prompted me to question my notions of reality and deepen my understanding of the human experience.

In the coming months, I hope to expand my private practice by offering remote health coaching and therapy services. I specialize in holistic, integrative therapy, blending mind, body, and spirit in my work. Over the years, I’ve gained recognition for my work and have had the privilege of supervising interns. Despite numerous life challenges, staying true to myself and never giving up has always been a guiding principle. I’m also an empath with keen intuition, and I integrate a variety of therapeutic modalities, such as EMDR, somatic work, Jungian therapy, CBT, Gestalt, family systems, mindfulness, and EFT (Emotional Freedom Techniques). I also incorporate creative expression—through music, art, writing, movement, and psychodrama—into my therapy practice. Currently, I’m finishing a health coaching certificate, which will further complement my therapeutic work and allow me to offer a side practice.

In addition to my therapy practice, I’m an aspiring songwriter. I began writing songs during the Covid lockdown, and since then, I’ve written over 40 songs. I’ve always found poetry to be a powerful means of expressing emotion and exploring the human condition, and songwriting has become another cathartic outlet for me. One of my goals is to write lyrics that will accompany a book I’ve nearly completed. It’s an autobiography, but with a twist—it’s written in a fantasy/sci-fi form. The book is focused on losing fear and becoming more in tune with love.

Life has not been without its challenges, particularly when it comes to health. In the past, I went through some personal health struggles while helping family members overcome their own health challenges. When essential things like health are stripped away, it forces you to confront deeper questions about the meaning of life. For me, it was “mission and purpose” that helped me recover, along with the support of functional and Western medicine. As a result, I began working specifically with clients who have chronic health challenges. These experiences have taught me that I am resilient, strong, and can be vulnerable all at once. Through it all, I’ve tried to maintain a sense of optimism, without feeling like a burden. The challenges also helped me identify who my real friends were and empowered me to navigate the healthcare system more effectively. These experiences also influenced my decision to study health-related fields to complement my therapy practice. In recent years, music has played a crucial role in keeping me strong and healthy, helping me mitigate and transform life’s challenges.

Recently, I relocated to Michigan to be closer to family, as some of them are facing health challenges. Family is of utmost importance to me, and being in Michigan allows me to offer my support. I’ve lived in the Midwest before and have always appreciated Michigan’s multifaceted beauty. I continue to see my clients in California remotely, and my coaching and therapy business will span both states.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
No visit to Los Angeles would be complete without a peaceful ride on the Swan Boats at Echo Park. Nestled in the heart of the city, this tranquil oasis offers a unique perspective of LA. As you glide across the water, the hustle and bustle of the surrounding park fades away, and the calmness of the lake provides a refreshing contrast to the vibrant energy of the city. It’s one of those rare spots in LA where you can truly relax and unwind while still being immersed in the city’s unmistakable charm.

Of course, no trip to LA is complete without a stop at Awesome Coffee in Koreatown. Whether you’re looking to start your day or take a mid-afternoon break, this cozy gem serves up the perfect matcha. It’s one of my favorite spots to recharge and savor the moment. The warm, inviting atmosphere makes it an ideal place to pause, reflect, and indulge in a drink that feels like a little piece of serenity in the midst of a busy day.

If we had several days to explore the city, I’d recommend starting with the breathtaking Getty Center. The art, the architecture, and the views from atop the hill are nothing short of stunning. You can lose yourself in the museum’s remarkable collection, while the surrounding gardens provide an oasis of beauty and calm. The panoramic views of Los Angeles only add to the experience, offering a perspective of the city that is both awe-inspiring and serene.

From there, we’d head over to one of my all-time favorite spots—LACMA. This museum is a must-see for any art lover. Its expansive galleries house everything from ancient artifacts to contemporary masterpieces. The iconic Urban Light installation is an absolute must-visit, and I always find myself spending hours getting lost in the museum’s ever-evolving exhibits. Whether you’re drawn to the classics or looking for something more modern, LACMA always has something to surprise and inspire.

After immersing ourselves in art, we’d dive into the cultural gems of Little Tokyo and Chinatown. Both neighborhoods are rich with history, culture, and mouthwatering food. In Little Tokyo, I love to wander through the shops, discovering unique Japanese crafts and enjoying a steaming bowl of ramen. Over in Chinatown, the vibrant markets and historic architecture create a completely different vibe. From the colorful stalls to the dim sum, there’s always something to explore and savor.

Next, we’d make our way to the Natural History Museum, a true gem in LA. Its towering dinosaur skeletons, dazzling mineral collections, and interactive exhibits never fail to amaze. It’s a place where you can immerse yourself in the wonders of the natural world, and it’s the perfect way to wind down after a day of cultural exploration.

As the evening rolls in, we’d head to The Whisky a Go Go on the Sunset Strip. This iconic venue has a storied history in the LA music scene, and whether you’re catching a live band or just soaking in the rock ‘n’ roll vibe, it’s the perfect way to cap off an unforgettable day. The energy here is palpable, and there’s no better place to end the night than with great music and the electric atmosphere of LA nightlife.

For me, a perfect day in LA is a mix of art, culture, food, history, and music. The city’s diverse offerings never fail to captivate me, and each visit feels like an exciting new adventure. LA is where creativity thrives and where I feel deeply connected to both my personal and professional aspirations. Whether I’m savoring its vibrant culinary scene, soaking up its artistic culture, or simply enjoying its natural beauty, LA always feels like home. I can’t wait to continue exploring the city I love and building new ventures in this dynamic, ever-inspiring place.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Music, in all its forms, has profoundly impacted my life. As a devoted heavy metal enthusiast, I’ve experienced numerous transformative moments at Whisky a Go Go. There, I won a handcrafted guitar, which significantly improved my health and well-being. Beyond the music, I connected with fascinating individuals from around the globe, united by our shared passion for music and diverse interests. These experiences have not only enriched my life but also inspired my own songwriting journey.

It’s heartening to recognize and celebrate the remarkable achievements of the women in my life:

Claire Cherry: A true warrior, Claire has navigated health challenges with resilience and determination. Her partial return to work with Cherry Children’s Music Outreach in Maryland marks a significant milestone in her journey. This organization is dedicated to providing free, research-based music education to underserved communities, emphasizing the importance of bridging arts and early childhood education.
Hillary Rupert: Hillary’s inclusion in the “Top 50 Women Leaders of California” for 2024 is a testament to her dedication and impact. Her ongoing commitment to sustainability and protecting our fragile Earth continues to inspire those around her.
Carmella (@777_angel_blessings): Carmella’s guidance has opened my eyes even more to the universe’s abundant offerings. Her encouragement to adopt a manifestation mindset has been transformative, helping me realize the power of listening to the universe’s whispers.
Kenzie from Sunset Riot: Through Kenzie’s influence, I’ve embraced the liberating feeling of letting my hair down, both literally and metaphorically. The band’s profound lyrics have transported me to another dimension, enriching my musical journey. She also has other music endeavors and her creative juices area always flowing.
These individuals have profoundly impacted my life, each inspiring growth, reflection, and a deeper connection to the world around me.

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Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/miriam-lamb-40a598340

Other: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/miriam-theresa-lamb-irvine-ca/1248244