Founders

Martha Lewis left the corporate world after many years to pursue her passion for the healing arts.  After completing an MA in Expressive Arts Therapy & Counseling and an MTS in Spirituality and the Arts, she co-founded the Music for Healing and Transition Program, Inc. with Laurie Riley in 1994. Martha was the first President and Executive Director of MHTP and remained active as an MHTP Board Director until 2002.  She was an instructor for MHTP from 1995-2017.  Now semi-retired, she is once again serving on MHTP’s Board of Directors. Over the years she has taught and facilitated expressive therapy workshops throughout the country and served in various ministries for Episcopal churches in the Episcopal Diocese of Texas.

Laurie Riley is a lifelong multi-instrumentalist and professional musician.  She has training as a nurse's aide and extensive experience in medical settings.  She began her work in therapeutic bedside music in 1991.  In March 1994, Laurie co-founded the Music for Healing and Transition Program, Inc. with Martha Lewis.  Laurie’s vision for bedside music was not limited to the harp and she imagined therapeutic musicians in many different kinds of medical settings.  She continues to support the work and training of therapeutic musicians, and performs, records, and also writes instructional materials.  Laurie is a popular teacher and keynote speaker.

Founding directors who incorporated MHTP in 1994:

• Laurie Riley

• Martha Lewis

• Mary Radspinner

• Maryann Schulz