Careers in Music Therapy
What do Music Therapists Do?
According to the American Music Therapy Association, music therapists assess a person's "emotional well-being, physical health, social functioning, communication abilities, and cognitive skills through musical responses". In addition, music therapists design music sessions based on client needs. Applications and techniques may include:
- Instrumental or vocal improvisation
- Receptive music listening
- Song writing
- Song lyric discussion/analysis
- Music and imagery
- Music performance
- Learning through music
- Music and movement
- Music and other expressive arts
Who do Music Therapists Help?
Music therapists can work with a wide range of population and in a myriad of facilities. Music therapy can be used with individuals with:
- Developmental disabilities
- Mental health needs
- Substance abuse problems
- Physical disabilities
- Chronic or terminal illnesses
- Alzheimer's Disease
- Dementia
- Autism
- Other
Where do Music Therapists Work?
Music therapist are trained to work in individual, small group, or large group settings at a myriad of facilities, including:
- Medical Hospitals
- Schools
- Nursing Homes
- Assisted-living Facilities
- Psychiatric Facilities/units
- Pediatric Units
- Rehabilitation Units
- Private Homes
To learn more about Music Therapy and what you can do with your degree read our bog and learn what other students are saying.