What Is Music Therapy?

Music therapy is an allied health profession that is a clinical and evidence-based practice. Music therapists use music to accomplish individualized goals and objectives and work with clients to support their social, emotional, cognitive, physical, communication, musical, and spiritual needs. We assess the strengths and needs of each client to provide tailored treatment, which may include creating, singing, moving to, and listening to music.

Music Therapist Qualifications

Music therapists undergo extensive training, including:

Four years of coursework at an accredited university for music therapy.
A 6-month internship, which totals 1200 hours of clinical training during coursework and internship.
Knowledge in psychology, medicine, and music.
Passing the national board exam to obtain the credential of MT-BC (Music Therapist Board Certified).

Additionally, multiple states require licensure to enhance access to services and client protection.

Benefits of Music Therapy

Music therapy is multi-sensory and offers a non-pharmacological approach to treatment. No prior music education or training is necessary to benefit from music therapy. Our goal areas vary based on client needs and may include:

Improving Communication
Reducing Pain
Encouraging Wellness
Regulating Stress and Stress Management
Expressing Emotions and Feelings
Supporting Physical Rehabilitation
Enhancing Memory Through Reminiscence

Who Benefits from Music Therapy?

We work with individuals and groups across all ages and life stages. Our settings include but are not limited to:

Alzheimer’s and Dementia Care
Behavioral Health
Correctional and Forensic Settings
Individuals on the Autism Spectrum
Medicine and Hospital Settings
Mental Health
Military Populations
Special Education

Music therapy sessions are personalized to meet the unique needs of each client, ensuring a supportive and effective therapeutic experience. Learn more about the music therapy profession at www.musictherapy.org.