What is Music Therapy?
"Music Therapy is the 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. It is an established health service similar to occupational therapy and physical therapy and consists of using music therapeutically to address physical, psychological, cognitive and/or social functioning for clients of all ages." (American Music Therapy Association - www.musictherapy.org)

What do Music Therapists do?
Music therapists assess emotional well-being, physical health, social functioning, communication abilities, and cognitive skills through musical responses; design music sessions for individuals and groups based on client needs using music improvisation, receptive music listening, song writing, lyric discussion, music and imagery, music performance, and learning through music; participate in interdisciplinary treatment planning, ongoing evaluation, and follow up.

Who can benefit from Music Therapy?
Children, adolescents, adults, and the elderly with mental health needs, developmental and learning disabilities, Autism, Down Syndrome, Alzheimer's disease and other aging related conditions, substance abuse problems, brain injuries, physical disabilities, and acute and chronic pain, including mothers in labor.  If you think someone you love would benefit from music therapy services, please contact us to schedule a music therapy assessment.

Where do music therapists work?
Music Therapists work in schools, psychiatric hospitals, medical hospitals, residential treatment facilities, day treatment centers, drug and alcohol programs, nursing homes, and private practices, which can include home visits.

Who is qualified to practice music therapy?
Music Therapists are certified by the Certification Board for Music Therapists (CBMT). Certified Music Therapists hold the title MT-BC (Music Therapist Board Certified).  Once certified, Music Therapists are required to earn continuing education credits to maintain their certification.

Is there research to support Music Therapy?
AMTA promotes a vast amount of research exploring the benefits of music as therapy through publication of the Journal of Music Therapy, Music Therapy Perspectives and other sources. A substantial body of literature exists to support the effectiveness of music therapy.

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