Music Therapy
Music therapy is the clinical and evidence-based use of music interventions to accomplish individualized goals within a therapeutic relationship by a credentialed professional who has completed an approved music therapy program.
Qualifications
Persons who complete an approved bachelors, equivalency, or masters program in music therapy, which includes a minimum of 1200 clinical hours are eligible to sit for the national exam offered by the Certification Board for Music Therapists. Music therapists who successfully complete the examination hold the credential Music Therapist, Board Certified (MT-BC).
Clinical Practice
Music therapists assess cognitive skills, physical health, social functioning, emotional well-being and communication abilities through musical responses, and design individualized music interventions based on client needs using the varying properties of music.
Clientele
Music therapy can be used to support individuals of all ages. Music therapists commonly work with clients with diagnosis including:
Neurodevelopmental Disabilities
Neurologic Impairment
Dementia
Autism Spectrum Disorders
Chronic Pain
Psychiatric Disorders
Physical Disabilities
Learning Disabilities
Other health impairments