Music Therapy
What An Honor! Jeff Peterson Receives Meaningful Jefferson Award
We’re proud to share that our founder, Jeff Peterson, was awarded the Bay Area Chapter Jefferson Award for his outstanding philanthropy and support of the children at UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital. He is seen here with Jack Russi, chairman of the Jefferson Award Foundation’s board of governors. The Jefferson Awards are given to unsung local…
Read MoreHow to Use Music Therapy to Heal and Triumph: Zoe’s Powerful Story
How do you find hope when a teen’s medical condition causes her to be completely unresponsive and unable to communicate? Read Zoe’s story below to find out how music therapy played an integral role in her recovery, and visit our contributions page to learn how you can help other children that need this therapy! Zoe Crouse,…
Read MoreHoliday Cheer: How to Help Sick Children with Music Therapy
While trees are decorated and lights are hung, many children are forced to spend the holiday season in the hospital. Their complex medical needs require intensive medical care and they are unable to return home for the holidays. The Peterson Family Foundation funds music therapy programs to lift up the spirit and support the heart,…
Read MoreWhy Music Therapy? Mateo’s Story
This is Mateo with our music therapy intern Kristina after their fun Music Therapy session at UCLA Mattel Children’s Hospital. They played with bells and his toy bear, and worked on identifying colors through play and song. Mateo’s doctor entered the room partway through the music therapy session and played along on the guitar. Mateo…
Read MoreSpotlight on Music Therapy and a Special Therapist
UCLA Mattel Children’s Hospital just released a new video highlighting the work of one of our music therapists, Jenna Bollard MA, MT-BC. The Peterson Family Foundation created the music therapy program at UCLA Mattel in September of 2016, and provides the funds to support Jenna in her important work; since the start of the program…
Read MoreWhat Do Certified Music Therapists Do?
The certified music therapists we work with at UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital frequently use songwriting and recording with the patients to address psychosocial goals, provide an outlet for expression and empower the child to tell their story. Our therapists facilitate songwriting and recording in patient’s rooms and also in our state of the art recording…
Read MoreExciting Update: Details About New Music Therapy Team Members
We are excited to announce two new music therapists working with the Peterson Family Foundation, Jenny Goldhammer and Cassi Crouse! Keep reading for more details about them below. Why is music therapy important? Find out here! Meet Jenny Goldhammer! Jenny Goldhammer is now working with patients in the Medical Surgical and Transitional Care units for…
Read MoreWatch the Astonishing Healing Benefits of Music Therapy
About the Video This video was made at UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital San Francisco, and highlights the works of our two amazing music therapists: Matt Logan and Brianna Negrete. Our music therapy program at UCSF Benioff San Francisco was started in October of 2013 by Oliver Jacobson, who is now our director of development for…
Read MoreTribute to Sam Surban
Sam’s Love for Song (A Tribute) By Expressive Arts Therapies UCLA Mattel Children’s Hospital This tribute is shared in honor of Samatha Surban (1/17/2006-2/10/2017). We would like to honor her special spirit, strength and love for music. Sam spent time consistently participating in Music Therapy sessions while receiving treatment at UCLA Mattel Children’s Hospital. Sam…
Read MoreMusic Therapy Hospitals We Support
“As you know, music therapy provides our young patients with a unique source of comfort and strength. [The Peterson Family Foundation’s] partnership ensures that many more children will experience its profound benefits, and as the program gains recognition, it will inspire widespread appreciation for music therapy. I am grateful that you share our dedication to…
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