Jennifer Whipple

Jennifer Whipple is a Professor and Director of Music Therapy at Charleston Southern University (CSU), where she teaches music therapy courses, research methods, and supervises clinical experiences in early childhood education and neonatal intensive care settings. She holds board certification in music therapy with neonatal intensive care specialization.

Education:

• Bachelor’s in Music Education - University of Richmond
• Master’s in Music Therapy - Florida State University
• Doctorate in Music Education/Therapy - Florida State University
• Certifications: Newborn Behavioral Observations & Neonatal Behavioral Assessment Scale (Brazelton Institute, Harvard Medical School)

Research Focus: Dr. Whipple specializes in evidence-based interventions for Autism Spectrum Disorder, music therapy applications in medical settings, therapeutic approaches for preterm infants, and inclusive education strategies for students with special needs. Her work integrates clinical practice with pedagogical frameworks.

Awards & Honors:

• Fellow, National Institute for Infant and Child Music Therapy (Florida State University)

Professional Leadership: Active in music therapy for 20 years; chaired Certification Board for Music Therapists committees; editorial board member for Music Therapy Perspectives; serves on American Music Therapy Association committees; current Chair of AMTA Autism Spectrum Disorder Task Force.

Clinical & Outreach: Founded Medical Music Therapy programs at Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare; conducts workshops for Southeastern U.S. school districts; presents research at international conferences.