Making a Notable Difference!

What is Music Therapy?

DEFINITION:   Music Therapy is an established healthcare profession that uses music to address physical, emotional, cognitive, and social needs of individuals of all ages.  Music therapy improves the quality of life for persons who are well and meets the needs of children and adults with disabilities or illnesses.  -AMTA 2007

 

ROLE:  Music therapists design and implement programs based on group and individual assessments, treatment planning, and ongoing program evaluation.

 

EDUCATION:  Music therapists complete an approved undergraduate or graduate program at over seventy universities in the USA.  Credential:  “Board-Certified”.

A Bachelor of Music Therapy Training Program includes :

 

*  Music Therapy Courses                                     *  Clinical Practicum –every semester

*  Instrumental/Voice Proficiency                         *  Functional Guitar and Piano

*  Human Anatomy                                               *  Psychology

*  Music History                                                    *  General Education

*  Music Theory and Ear Training

 

*  Six months of full time clinical internship at an AMTA-approved site

· Board Certification Exam after coursework and internship

 

EXAMPLES OF MUSIC THERAPY GOALS:

 

· To maintain or increase memory

· To provide opportunity for nonverbal expression of emotions

· To promote sense of growth and accomplishment through successful experiences

· To reduce stress and anxiety in the individual and caregiver

· To improve communication

· To provide opportunities for social interaction

· To support physical health and wellness

Continued