How to become a music therapist

What does a music therapist do?

Music offers people a way to practice cognitive, communication, and even physical skills. Music therapists are trained and credentialed through a licensed music therapy program, and these music-based methods are evidence based, just like other types of therapy.

Working with patients of all ages, from children to seniors, music therapists address many different conditions and situations, including physical disabilities, psychiatric disorders, and neurological conditions. They use techniques like listening to music, playing instruments, singing, songwriting, and rhythmic movement to help people achieve therapeutic goals in these areas and beyond.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), recreational therapists, like those in music therapy, earn a median annual salary of $57,120 as of May 2023.

Steps to become a music therapist

If you've decided this is a compelling career path, here is what you'll need to do to become a certified music therapist.

Step 1: Earn a bachelor's degree in music therapy

The first major step is earning your bachelor's degree in music therapy. A music therapy program can provide you with a strong foundation in music, as well as psychology and human health. Additionally, you'll gain an understanding of techniques used in music therapy, as well as how these interventions complement other treatments.

Some possible courses you might have in your program include:

• Music theory and performance
• Psychology and human behavior
• Anatomy and physiology
• Music therapy techniques and interventions

If you already have a degree in a related field, such as psychology or music, some schools also offer a degree equivalency option. In instances like these, students would typically complete only the required coursework for music therapy and, after graduation, would be eligible to sit for certification.

If you choose this route, make sure your current degree is listed as an acceptable field for your chosen school's equivalency.

Step 2: Complete clinical training

Part of your bachelor's degree will be a clinical internship. You'll work under the supervision of a certified music therapist, gaining hands-on experience with different methods.

This internship may include working in a variety of settings like mental health clinics and hospitals. According to the American Music Therapy Association, the internship should take 1,200 hours at a minimum.

Step 3: Pass the certification exam

Once you complete your degree and clinical hours, you'll take the certification exam. Those practicing in the United States will take the Music Therapist-Board Certified (MT-BC) exam through the Certification Board for Music Therapists (CBMT).

Some states may require additional state-level certification to begin your practice. It's a good idea to check with your state to find out if you'll need any certifications beyond the MT-BC.

MT-BC certification is valid for five years. After this period, you can retake the exam, or you can complete 100 recertification credits.

State-level certifications will typically also require recertifications, so check what your state's requirements are here as well.

Step 4: Consider a graduate degree (optional)

A graduate degree can provide a pathway to more specialized practices or leadership roles. A master's degree will often focus on research methods, advanced techniques, and specialized care roles. For example, a music therapist with an advanced degree may take on a leadership role in a health clinic or specialize in neurorehabilitation.

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