Robin Rio

Robin Rio is an Adjunct Professor of Music at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) and a board-certified music therapist. She teaches courses such as Music and Social Justice (in collaboration with RVA Street Singers) and Introduction to Music Therapy, both offered online and in-person. Her work integrates music, movement, and songwriting to address wellness, hospice care, and support for individuals affected by homelessness, addiction, and intellectual challenges.

• Current Roles: Adjunct Professor (VCU), Hospice and Palliative Care Music Therapist (Bon Secours Mercy Health), Author
• Emeritus Title: Associate Professor of Music Therapy (Arizona State University)

Her research focuses on music therapy in dementia care, social justice through the arts, and spirituality in healthcare. Her published work includes a study in Frontiers in Medicine (2020) and a caregiver guide on dementia care.

Robin’s professional affiliations include the spiritual care department at Bon Secours and leadership in experiential learning initiatives. She employs creative arts, improvisation, and community engagement to foster therapeutic outcomes.