What is music therapy?
According to the American Music Therapy Association (AMTA), "Music Therapy is the clinical and evidenced-based use of music interventions to address the physical, social, emotional, and cognitive needs of individuals within a therapeutic relationship by a credentialed professional who has completed an approved music therapy program."
Music therapists must earn a bachelor's degree or higher in music therapy from an AMTA-approved program, which includes 1200 hours of clinical training. Upon successful completion of academic and clinical training, in addition to passing the national board exam, graduates are issued the credentials necessary for professional practice, Music Therapist-Board Certified (MT-BC).
After assessing the strengths and needs of each client, music therapists set goals for each client and design music interventions to work towards those goals. Music interventions may include singing, instrument play, structured movement, and/or music listening. Prior music experience is not necessary to be successful in music therapy!
Music therapists work with many different populations in many different settings. These include, but are not limited to: skilled-nursing facilities, hospice, adult day centers, students in special education, NICU, individuals with Down syndrome, individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders, physical rehabilitation, and more!
Music therapists must earn a bachelor's degree or higher in music therapy from an AMTA-approved program, which includes 1200 hours of clinical training. Upon successful completion of academic and clinical training, in addition to passing the national board exam, graduates are issued the credentials necessary for professional practice, Music Therapist-Board Certified (MT-BC).
After assessing the strengths and needs of each client, music therapists set goals for each client and design music interventions to work towards those goals. Music interventions may include singing, instrument play, structured movement, and/or music listening. Prior music experience is not necessary to be successful in music therapy!
Music therapists work with many different populations in many different settings. These include, but are not limited to: skilled-nursing facilities, hospice, adult day centers, students in special education, NICU, individuals with Down syndrome, individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders, physical rehabilitation, and more!