About Music Therapy

Music Therapy is a professional health discipline that uses the clinical application of music to facilitate non-musical functional goals.

Music therapy treatment techniques encourage positive change in cognitive, physical, social, and psychological skills of individuals. When applied by the trained practitioner, these scientifically-based music therapy techniques motivate, provide timing cues, and create structure; aiding people of all ages in reaching their goals through their strengths and abilities.

Music Therapist Training

Music therapists are required to hold a bachelor’s degree in music therapy from one of the 70 approved university programs.

Music therapists receive training in music, music theory, psychology, anatomy, social sciences, acoustics, human development, special education, and music therapy.

A six-month clinical training internship must be completed before taking the national board certification exam that is regulated by the Certification Board for Music Therapists. The credentials of MT-BC (Music Therapist-Board Certified) are earned after passing the exam. Board Certified Music Therapists are required to complete at least 100 continuing education credits or sit for a re-certification exam every five years.