What is Music Therapy?

Music therapy is a creative process that engages individuals in artistic expression to achieve both clinical/therapeutic and non-therapeutic goals. These goals can include addressing specific health and wellness needs or fostering emotional, social, and personal growth. Our board-certified music therapists design individualized programming that combines clinical expertise with musicianship.

Each session is a collaborative process that encourages creativity, self-expression, and emotional release. Music therapy sessions may include improvisation, songwriting, instrumental play, singing, or listening, providing participants with a safe and supportive space to explore and achieve their goals.

The demand for music therapy is outpacing the number of music therapists! If you are interested in a career in music therapy, click here for the American Music Therapy Association site to learn more.

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Music Therapist Training

Academic Background

Individuals go through a 4-year undergraduate program approved by the American Music Therapy Association (AMTA). Master’s and doctoral degrees are available for advanced clinical practice, research, supervision, or teaching.

Clinical Training

A minimum of 1,200 hours of clinical training is required, including practicum (pre-internship) experiences followed by a 6-month internship, where therapists learn to tailor their techniques to meet the needs of diverse populations.

Board Certification

After finishing their degree and 6-month internship, individuals must pass the national board exam administered by the Certification Board for Music Therapists (CBMT) to earn the Music Therapist-Board Certified credential.

Continued Education

Board-certified music therapists must earn 100 continuing education credits (Continuing Music Therapy Education, or CMTE) every 5-year recertification cycle managed by the Certification Board for Music Therapists (CBMT).

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Music Therapy Benefits

Music therapy has been proven to provide numerous benefits across various populations, including:

  • Emotional Support: Helps in managing stress, expressing emotions, and improving mood.

  • Cognitive Benefits: Enhances memory, attention, and cognitive functioning.

  • Physical Rehabilitation: Assists in motor skill development and physical rehabilitation.

  • Social Skills Development: Encourages communication and social interaction, particularly in group settings.

  • Pain Management: Aids in pain relief and provides comfort during medical treatments.

Who benefits from Music Therapy?

Music therapy is versatile and can benefit individuals across all ages and abilities. It’s particularly effective for:

  • Infants, children and youth with developmental delays or other physical/mental disabilities.
  • People of all ages dealing with mental health issues such as anxiety or depression.
  • Older adults facing cognitive decline and memory issues, including Alzheimer’s and dementia.
  • Patients undergoing medical treatments or physical rehabilitation in hospitals, clinics, rehab centers or in-home
  • Veterans and military-connected individuals working through a traumatic brain injury, PTSD, anxiety, depression or social isolation
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