What is Music Therapy?
Music Therapy is an established health care profession which provides 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 (AMTA, 2005).
Through the use of music and music-based interventions, music therapists work with individuals of all ages and abilities to master non-musical goals. Music therapy can address needs within the cognitive, emotional, physical, spiritual, and social domains.
Through the use of music and music-based interventions, music therapists work with individuals of all ages and abilities to master non-musical goals. Music therapy can address needs within the cognitive, emotional, physical, spiritual, and social domains.
Who can provide Music Therapy Services?
Professional music therapists hold a bachelor degree or higher from an approved American Music Therapy Association (AMTA) college or university academic and clinical program. After completing their degree, music therapists are eligible to sit for the national board certification exam provided by the Certification Board of Music Therapists and earn the credential MT-BC (Music Therapist Board Certified). Successful completion of this exam demonstrates proficient current skills in the music therapy profession. Credentialed music therapists participate in the recertification process every 5 years.
Credentialed music therapists have successfully completed an American Music Therapy Association (AMTA) approved academic and clinical training program, passed an extensive objective examination through the Certification Board of Music Therapists (CBMT) demonstrating current skills in the music therapy profession, and participate in the recertification process every 5 years.
Credentialed music therapists have successfully completed an American Music Therapy Association (AMTA) approved academic and clinical training program, passed an extensive objective examination through the Certification Board of Music Therapists (CBMT) demonstrating current skills in the music therapy profession, and participate in the recertification process every 5 years.
Who do Music Therapists Serve?
Music Therapists serve individuals with a wide range of ages and abilities. These include:
- Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
- Down's Syndrome
- Intellectual and Developmental Delays
- Early Intervention
- Cognitive Disabilities
- Physical Disabilities
- Emotional and Behavioral Challenges
- Social and Learning Needs
- And much more!
Research
The links below provide additional information about how music therapy addresses the needs for specific populations.