Doran Williamson uses music as therapy

A guidance counsellor by occupation, Doran Williamson decided that there was more to be done in helping persons, using his voice, and without having to give up his job.

The musical crossroads where being counsellor and ministering the gospel through music meet is at the Kingston Technical High School. In counselling sessions, Williamson uses music as a form of therapy and technique.

"I am also the praise and worship leader for the school. Our student body is made up of artistic individuals; some of these students use music too, to express their own emotions, and I am able to meet them halfway and apply music as a tool for calming," he told Gospel Spotlight. "It has become even more important. Students are still trying to adjust to this new way of life, likewise the parents, all of whom reach out to me. Being able to have an impact or make indelible changes is quite rewarding, spiritually."

For Williamson, who said he got saved at age nine, singing and writing is his escape. He also serves as the local and regional youth director and praise and worship leader for the Assemblies of God Jamaica, and as a praise and worship minister for the McDonald Lane New Testament Church of God. He says that he is aware of his limitations as a singer but, "in terms of the art and how the music is conveyed, it is different".

NEW PURPOSE

He has added "praise and worship artiste" to his resume, recording and releasing his first official song last August. He said his singing is not for entertainment or gratification, "but more of a one-on-one relationship with God, in that space".

Williamson explained that the title of his debut single, Psalm 91: I Am Protected, comes from a Bible verse, Psalms 91:2, which reads "I will say of the Lord, [He is] my refuge and my fortress, my God, in him will I trust".

"Psalm 91 is an affirmation scripture speaking of the power of God protecting us, and even more relevant as 2020 has proven to be a year that has taken all of us by surprise," he said. "It has caused a lot of anxiety and stress for us, mentally, emotionally and physically. For many Christians and believers, even though we have faith in God, sometimes we need reassurance."