Mission
West Michigan Music Therapy is committed to utilizing the strengths of each individual through dynamic, client-centered practice. Using current techniques based in research, West Michigan Music Therapy, LLC provides group and individual sessions that promote wellness of mind, body, & spirit.
Jeremy Verwys, MM, MT-BC
Jeremy Verwys is a West Michigan musician, instructor and music therapist. He completed graduate degrees in both Guitar Performance and Music Therapy at Illinois State University, and subsequently received his board certification in music therapy. Clinically, Mr. Verwys has worked in early intervention, schools, juvenile detention, retirement facilities, hospitals, and hospice settings. Jeremy has performed with the Grand Rapids Symphony, the Calvin College Choral program, Hope College’s Dance Program, as well as with the dance faculty at Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp where he was commissioned in 2015 and 2016 to compose and perform original works.
How did you know you would be a music therapist?
After working for seven years within a mental health hospital, I had the opportunity to work with people with a wide variety of diagnosis’ and needs. One thing I learned about myself is that I can sit and walk along someone as they need.
Emily Peterson, M.Ed, MT-BC
Emily Peterson, MT-BC received her Bachelor’s degree in Music Therapy from Appalachian State University and her Master’s in Adult and Higher Education from Grand Valley State University. Emily’s undergraduate research focused on the grief experience for an individual with Downs syndrome. Following her clinical internship, Emily worked full-time in hospice care for five years working with adults experiencing terminal illness. Emily has expertise in funeral planning, comfort care for the actively dying, and therapeutic musical experiences for both patient and family throughout the dying process. Emily maintains an active private music studio that serves piano and voice students of all ages and abilities. She is a sought-after performer and cantor in the greater Grand Rapids area.
How did you know you would be a music therapist?
When I was fifteen, I remember finding a publication on music therapy research with prison inmates from the 1970s. I was immediately moved by the depth and scope of the field and wanted to know more about scientifically applying music to benefit others.