I believe that music therapy can enhance the ability of every individual to express their thoughts, emotions, and ultimately, their lives more fully.

As a board-certified music therapist (MT-BC) with a Master’s Degree in Music Therapy (MMT), Jennifer has experience working with a wide variety of clients. She specializes in working with groups of adults with mental health and substance use disorders, creating opportunities for them to learn concepts and practice skills that they can use outside of treatment to support their recovery and wellness. Jennifer also prioritizes mentoring music therapy students and professionals through her MT Mentor membership community and continuing music therapy education (CMTE) courses.

Jennifer has previously worked with adults (ages 18-98) with a variety of identities and mental and physical health disorders, directing a choir and tone chime choir and leading music therapy groups and worship services along with adaptive yoga classes. She also has experience in directing and teaching elementary through high school level music classes. Jennifer has extensive experience in teaching private traditional and adaptive piano, voice, flute, and guitar lessons, as well. You can learn more about Jennifer’s current offerings here.

Jennifer is an expert in her field, previously serving as co-chair for the American Music Therapy Association’s Commission on the Education and Clinical Training of 21st Century Music Therapists and a member of the World Federation of Music Therapy Clinical Practice Commission. Jennifer has presented regionally, nationally, and internationally for professional organizations, colleges, and universities. Her presentation topics have included the prevention of burnout through sustainable self-care practices, the creation of personal and professional core values and vision and mission statements, sustainability and identity in music therapy, supervision and mentorship in courageous communities, reflective and reflexive practices, healthy boundaries, imposter syndrome, the intentional integration of music therapy methods in session planning for mental health settings, humanistic and person-centered practices in music therapy, and the incorporation of mindfulness-based principles in music therapy. Learn more on how you can book Jennifer to speak at your organization or college/university.

In addition to Jennifer’s board certification in music therapy, she is also a Certified and Experienced Registered Yoga Teacher (E-RYT) with Level I and II Training in “Adapting Yoga for Disability” and additional training in “The Mind Body Approach to Trauma” from Mind Body Solutions. In addition, Jennifer is a Yoga Alliance Continuing Education Provider (YACEP) and an approved provider for the Certification Board for Music Therapists (CBMT).

Jennifer is a pioneer in expertly combining mindfulness-based principles and music therapy, all while adapting to meet the unique needs of individuals with whom she works. She leads and empowers individuals in her programs to build strength, flexibility, and balance. She uniquely combines the benefits of yoga and music therapy with adults and older adults with mental health disorders, histories of trauma, and a variety of physical challenges, using mindfulness-based principles and improvisation.

Jennifer and her Pet Partner Willow (now deceased) served as a Reading Education Assistance Dogs (R.E.A.D.) team at area libraries and in the Minnetonka Public School District, where they received the Spinnaker Award for their volunteer work. Jennifer also served as Events Coordinator for North Star Therapy Animals, volunteering at community events, educating others, and sharing her experiences as a Pet Partner.