Elizabeth Eggerding

Elizabeth Eggerding is an Assistant Professor of Music Therapy at Converse University's Petrie School of Music, bringing over 20 years of clinical, educational, and administrative experience in music therapy. She holds a PhD in Expressive Therapies from Lesley University and is a board-certified music therapist (MT-BC).

Education:

• PhD in Expressive Therapies, Lesley University
• Master of Science in Music Therapy, Radford University
• BS in Music Therapy & BA in Psychology, State University of New York at Fredonia

Her research and clinical expertise focus on therapeutic presence, music therapy in mental health and psychiatric settings, and the development of music therapy education and training programs. She has established music therapy internships and clinical services in state psychiatric hospitals and skilled nursing facilities across multiple states.

Her 2023 dissertation represents a significant contribution to the field, using an arts-based phenomenological approach to explore how therapeutic presence is cultivated in music therapy students. The work bridges clinical practice, pedagogy, and qualitative research in expressive therapies.

Professional Leadership:

• President-Elect, Southeastern Region-American Music Therapy Association (SER-AMTA), 2023–2025
• Secretary, SER-AMTA, 2021–2023
• Former President, Virginia Music Therapy Association
• Active member and co-chair of state task forces for music therapy recognition in Virginia, Mississippi, and South Carolina

Dr. Eggerding has presented widely on clinical techniques (e.g., song discussion for symptom management), professional development, and her research. She has advised program development, including the MUW Music Therapy Clinic, and continues to mentor students and shape music therapy curricula. She is actively involved in advancing the profession through advocacy and leadership.

She previously taught at Mississippi University for Women and worked for ten years at Eastern State Hospital in Williamsburg, VA, expanding services in civil admissions, forensic, and geropsychiatric programs.