Today we’d like to introduce you to Aaron Rochlen.
Hi Aaron, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I’ve been a Psychologist and Professor at the University of Texas for approximately 20 years. I’ve always been a big music guy and spent years teaching counseling theory through music, discovering that songs often make complex psychological concepts more personal and relatable. That passion led to an unexpected opportunity when I wrote a handwritten letter to Taylor Goldsmith of Dawes, whose music I had been using in my classes. His response sparked a backyard concert in 2021 that blended live music with conversations about the psychology behind songwriting. The experience resonated deeply with audiences and became the foundation for Under the Rock, a live music and mental health platform that encourages reflection, connection, and open dialogue. Since then, the project has grown beyond the stage through university teaching, research on music and mental health, community partnerships, and plans for a PBS series, allowing me to combine my lifelong interests in psychology, music, education, and community impact.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Honestly, the use of music in my classes has been pretty smooth. Students love it as they relate to the concepts and of course love the tunes!
I think the challenge has been more about integrating my professional university path with my personal hobbies and passions (some of those involving the arts). I haven’t always really known how to do that.
And in the past few years, I”ve figured some of that out through this Under The Rock community based show. And that show has also been well received my the university and my colleagues. I’ve even been bringing in some major rock stars to my Music and Mental health class, which has been a big win for everyone.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
As mentioned earlier, I think I’m a creative and artsy guy. But I’m also a psychology professor, researcher, and counselor educator. My show Under the Rock (@undertherockatx on IG) is a live event series that blends music, psychology, and storytelling to foster meaningful conversations about mental health and human connection. My work focuses on using music as a powerful tool for reflection, learning about counseling concepts, and I’d say mini, little micro (but I hope meaningful) psychology lessons.
What I’m most proud of is creating a space where the intersection of music and psychology, and music and mental health can be recognized. This feels like it’s working and timely, but for audiences, artists, and of course myself!
We’d love to hear about any fond memories you have from when you were growing up?
Probably going to an Elton John concert, just really experiencing the power of music (and performances) in the moment. I also always will remember meeting Boy George (not dressed up) in an elevator. It was just so epic, seeing this artist I looked up to in “regular guy” mode.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @undertherockatx
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/undertherockaustin/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@docrock0
