Understanding Music Therapy: What You Need to Know
- Megan Oglesby
- Apr 24
- 3 min read
Updated: Jul 7
If you're reading this, it's probably because you have some questions about music therapy.
What is a music therapist?
How do you become one?
What makes them different from a performer or music teacher?
What Do Music Therapists Actually Do?
If you ask any music therapist what music therapy is, they will likely recite something related to a textbook definition learned in their education:
"Music Therapy is the clinical & 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."
Breaking It Down
Music therapists are allied health professionals. They use music to achieve non-musical goals through evidence-based interventions. By tapping into the naturally rhythmic nature of the human body, individuals can feel more motivated, comforted, engaged, and ready to tackle challenges.
While music is the primary focus, it's important to understand the therapist aspect of the title. Music therapists undergo comprehensive training. They learn about various methodologies needed to help diverse individuals achieve their specific goals.
As a music therapist, I am knowledgeable about implementing safe approaches tailored to the populations I serve. I set attainable goals for their development and maximize success within an engaging, supportive environment.
How to Become a Music Therapist
Becoming a music therapist involves much more than just playing an instrument well. To legally practice as a Music Therapist, one must:
Attend an accredited college that offers a music therapy degree under AMTA guidelines. This includes gaining proficiency in various instruments, music theory, aural skills, therapeutic approaches, and more. See all requirements here!
Complete 1200 clinical hours through an internship that includes supervision, examinations, projects, and possibly a thesis.
Study for and pass the board-certification exam for national certification.
Obtain 100 Continuing Music Therapy Education (CMTE) credits by participating in seminars, courses, presentations, advocacy, and research to maintain certification every five years.
You can find music therapists in many settings. They work in schools to help students progress in their Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). They provide support in hospice to help clients and families process grief. They also collaborate with physical or speech therapists to enhance communication and motor functioning goals. Additionally, they lead social and wellness-focused groups for all ages, assist with recovery from addiction or serious injuries, and operate in various mental health environments.
What to Expect in a Music Therapy Session
Before starting a music therapy session, clients usually fill out an intake form. This form gathers information about their diagnosis, history, concerns, and strengths. Then, an assessment session is scheduled to determine whether music is a suitable therapeutic approach for targeting specific needs. It also helps establish rapport.
Assessment Overview
Assessment sessions often occur over one or two meetings, depending on the client's age. The therapist examines how the individual is doing in various aspects of life:
During this process, the therapist discusses potential goals with the client. Music therapy is client-centered, allowing individuals to participate in decision-making about their treatment as much as possible.
Types of Interventions Used in Music Therapy
Now that we've covered what to expect in a session, let's explore the types of interventions commonly used.
The interventions can be adapted to suit various populations:
Active instrument play
Songwriting (original and piggyback)
Movement to or through music
Listening to music and processing its contents (both lyrical and musical)
Mindfulness practices and grounding techniques
Improvisation on different instruments
Psychoeducation on techniques and interventions used
Music education
The most crucial elements of a music therapy session include client-preferred music, a positive rapport, and encouragement for the client to maintain autonomy. This approach allows them to explore new and evidence-based ways to meet their individualized goals.
In summary, this overview should answer many of your initial questions about becoming a music therapist. Music therapy is a deeply rewarding field, where you can facilitate personal growth and healing through the power of music.
Sincerely,
Megan
Megan is a Music Therapist at Anderson Music Therapy and works with children, teens, and adults.
If you feel like music therapy could benefit you or someone you care about, we'd love to help! Schedule a phone call to get more information.
