How does a career in music therapy look like?

Music therapy is an interpersonal process in which the therapist uses music and all of its facets-physical, emotional, mental, social, aes...

Music therapy is an interpersonal process in which the therapist uses music and all of its facets-physical, emotional, mental, social, aesthetic, and spiritual-to help clients to improve or maintain their health. In some instances, the client's needs are addressed directly through music; in others they are addressed through the relationships that develop between the client and therapist.

WITH WHOM IS MUSIC THERAPY USED?

Music therapy is used with individuals of all ages and with a variety of conditions, including: psychiatric disorders, medical problems, physical handicaps, sensory impairments, developmental disabilities, substance abuse, communication disorders, interpersonal problems, and aging. It is also used to: improve learning, build self-esteem, reduce stress, support physical exercise, and facilitate a host of other health-related activities.

Music therapists work in general hospitals, psychiatric facilities, schools, prisons, community centers, training institutes, private practices, and universities.

HOW DO I BECOME A MUSIC THERAPIST?

To become a music therapist, one has to complete an undergraduate degree in music therapy (or it equivalence) at an accredited college or university, do an approved internship of approximately 1040 supervised clinical hours, and then obtain certification by passing a national examination given by the Certification Board for Music Therapist (CBMT).

Approximately 70 colleges and universities in the USA offer bachelor's degrees and equivalency programs in music therapy. The bachelor's degree usually requires about 130 semester hours or credits plus the internship. This usually takes 4 1/2 years to complete. The curriculum is divided into three main subjects:

1) Music (Theory, History, Performance, Composition, Conducting, Ensembles, and Functional Piano, Guitar and Voice);

2) Music Therapy (Foundations, Methods and Materials, Practicum, Research, etc.); and

3) General Studies (English, Math, Languages, Psychology, Physical Sciences, Humanities, Arts, etc.). In the internship, the student works in a clinical agency under the direct supervision of music therapists, and learns to assume the full range of responsibilities of a professional.

Equivalency programs are for students who already have a bachelor's degree in an area other than music therapy. These programs usually require the student to take all core music therapy courses at the undergraduate level and to make up any deficiencies the student may have in supportive areas such as anatomy, psychology, music, etc. Essentially, equivalency students have to complete all courses required in the undergraduate music therapy degree program which they have not already taken. Those who already have a degree in music performance or music education can usually complete an equivalency program and the internship in about two years; students who do not have a music degree may take significantly longer. Many students work on a master's degree while completing equivalency requirements.

Several colleges and universities offer a master's degree in music therapy. It usually requires 30 semester hours or credits beyond the undergraduate or equivalency program. The curriculum consists of advanced courses in music therapy, music, and supportive areas. A thesis or final project and a comprehensive examination are also required. Typically, a master's degree takes two years to complete.
A few universities offer doctoral degrees in music therapy. Typically, these are housed in the music or music education department.

What career opportunities are available for music therapists?Opportunities for employment are available to the registered music therapist, not only in traditional clinical settings, such as agencies serving individuals with emotional, developmental, or physical disabilities, but in new and expanding areas of health care delivery. For example, music therapists are now employed in hospice care, substance abuse programs, oncology treatment centers, pain/stress management clinics, and correctional settings. Additionally, many music therapists work in special education settings, where they provide either direct services to students with disabilities or function as consultants for music educators and special educators. A recent hearing before the U.S. Senate's Special Committee on Aging and the subsequent passage of the Older Americans Act of 1992 have increased the recognition of music therapy's value, as well as employment opportunities.

HOW MUCH DO MUSIC THERAPISTS EARN?

Music therapy salaries depend upon the individual's educational and work experience, the employer institution, and the specific job position. Average yearly salaries for clinicians range from $46,000 to $53,000 depending upon the setting. Salary scales in governmental agencies and schools tend to be higher than those in the private sector. Administrators and supervisors can expect to earn more than clinicians, depending upon background and experience and the size of the program or staff under their direction. College professors can also expect to earn a higher salary, especially those who have doctorates.

Here are some Music Therapy Pictures (click to view)