Music Therapy

HISTORY OF MUSIC THERAPY

The therapeutic use of music has been noted as far back as Aristotle and Plato and in many cultures throughout history. The profession of music therapy formally began after World War I and World War II when musicians began visiting Veterans Hospitals to promote healing from physical and emotional trauma. The Veterans' positive response to music was noticed by doctors and nurses and led to them hiring musicians in the hospitals. It was evident that these musicians needed some formal training and this is how the demand for music therapy degree programs began. The first music therapy academic program began in 1944 at Michigan State University. There are now over 70 colleges/universities with music therapy degree programs approved by the American Music Therapy Association.  

QUALIFICATIONS

Music Therapists must complete a Bachelor's degree or its equivalent in music therapy. Part of their training includes 1,200 clinical hours earned during practicum placements and a 6 month internship. After completing these requirements, they are then eligible to sit for the certification exam to become a board-certified music therapist (MT-BC). 

WHERE DO MUSIC THERAPISTS WORK?

Music therapists can work at hospitals, medical facilities, mental health centers, rehabilitation centers, schools, nursing homes, adult day centers, drug and alcohol programs, hospice programs, senior centers, outpatient clinics, private practice, correctional facilities, and more.

WHAT GOALS DO MUSIC THERAPISTS WORK ON?

Music therapists work with a wide variety of people to help them with their individualized goals. Those goals may fall into five main categories: social, emotional, physical, communication, and cognitive skills. Within those areas, specific goals such as increasing relaxation, improving academic skills, decreasing pain, enhancing memory, and increasing self-expression can be achieved through music therapy.