Music Therapist Specialists
Music Therapist Specialists use music in a scientific, clinical way to help people improve their physical, emotional, thinking, and social skills. They assess each client’s abilities, design a treatment plan, then lead sessions that might include singing, playing instruments (such as keyboard, guitar, or drums), songwriting, or listening to carefully chosen music. They also collect and analyze data from sessions, work closely with doctors, teachers, and counselors, and adjust their strategies based on research and each client’s progress.
Did you know?
Music therapists must obtain board certification (MT-BC) through the Certification Board for Music Therapists and may need additional state licensing depending on their practice location and setting.
At a glance
Typical average pay
$67,500 Avg/yr
Growth
Fast growing
Top skill
Social Perceptiveness
Things to consider
Insurance Reimbursement Challenges
Many insurance providers do not consistently cover music therapy services, which can limit income potential and require therapists to work in settings with alternative funding sources.
Competitive but Growing Job Market
While the field is expanding in healthcare and educational settings, competition for positions can be intense, particularly in desirable locations and specialized treatment areas.
Key responsibilities
Supervise staff, volunteers, practicum students, or interns engaged in music therapy activities.
Communicate with clients to build rapport, acknowledge their progress, or reflect upon their reactions to musical experiences.
Collaborate with others to design or implement interdisciplinary treatment programs.
Integrate behavioral, developmental, improvisational, medical, or neurological approaches into music therapy treatments.
Customize treatment programs for specific areas of music therapy, such as intellectual or developmental disabilities, educational settings, geriatrics, medical settings, mental health, physical disabilities, or wellness.