therapy

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Pursuing a Career in Music Therapy

Hey there, future Music Therapists! Are you one of those people who believes in the healing power of music? Maybe you’ve experienced it yourself—how a certain song can lift your spirits, calm your nerves, or bring back cherished memories. Well, guess what? You can turn that passion into a rewarding career. Here’s a down-to-earth guide on how to become a music therapist and what to study in college to get there.

What is Music Therapy?

Music therapy is an established health profession in which music is used to address physical, emotional, cognitive, and social needs of individuals. Certified music therapists use the power of music to help clients improve their health and well-being. Music therapists design music sessions for individuals and groups based on client needs using music improvisation, receptive music listening, song writing, lyric discussion, music and imagery, music performance, and learning through music; participate in interdisciplinary treatment planning, ongoing evaluation, and follow up.

Why Choose Music Therapy?

Music therapy can be incredibly rewarding. You’ll have the chance to make a significant difference in people’s lives, helping them heal and grow through the universal language of music. Whether working with children with special needs, adults recovering from trauma, or seniors with Alzheimer’s, your work will have a profound impact.

So, if you’re passionate about music and want to help others, consider a career in music therapy. It’s a beautiful blend of art and science, offering both emotional fulfillment and professional satisfaction.

Things to Consider When Becoming a Music Therapist

Common College Majors:

While there is no one-size-fits-all path, here are some common and helpful majors:

  • Psychology: Understanding the human mind is crucial. Pair this with music courses.
  • Music Performance/Education: Focus on honing your musical skills while taking electives in psychology and health sciences.
  • Neuroscience or Biology: These majors provide a strong understanding of the biological aspects of therapy.

Complete an Internship:

  • As part of your degree, you’ll need to complete an internship under the supervision of a board-certified music therapist. This hands-on experience is invaluable.

Consider Advanced Education:

Some music therapists go on to pursue a master’s or even a doctoral degree to specialize further and open up more career opportunities. Here are some graduate school programs you can consider:

  • Master of Arts in Music Therapy and Counseling: Programs like the one at Drexel University integrate advanced music therapy coursework with general counseling courses and hands-on clinical experience. This prepares graduates for various career paths in music therapy and counseling
  • Master of Education in Special Education with a focus on Music Therapy: Some universities offer specialized education degrees that include coursework in music therapy, such as Arizona State University and Grand Canyon University.
  • Master of Science in Music Therapy: Programs like the one at Sam Houston State University offer a master’s degree in music therapy for students with and without a bachelor’s degree in music therapy. These programs often include practicum or clinical supervision requirements.
  • Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Music Therapy: For those interested in advanced study and research, programs like the one at the Herron School of Art + Design offer a Ph.D. in music therapy, which can be completed online or on-campus.
  • Online Master’s Programs: Many universities now offer online master’s programs in music therapy, which can be a flexible option for students who need to balance work or other commitments.
  • When choosing a graduate program, make sure it is approved by the American Music Therapy Association (AMTA) to ensure it meets the necessary standards for certification and licensure.

Get Certified:

  • In the United States, you’ll need to pass the certification exam offered by the Certification Board for Music Therapists (CBMT) to become a board-certified music therapist (MT-BC).

Online Sources:

  1. American Music Therapy Association
  2. Certification Board for Music Therapists
  3. National Institutes of Health on Music Therapy

Art Therapy: A Path to Healing Through Creativity

Art therapy is a unique and rewarding career that combines the creative process of making art with the therapeutic process of healing. Art therapists use their skills to help people express themselves, explore their emotions, and improve their mental health. Let’s dive into what art therapists do, who they work with, their work environment, and the education required to become one.

Art therapists use various art forms, such as drawing, painting, sculpture, and collage, to help clients express their thoughts and feelings. They believe that the creative process can be a powerful tool for healing and personal growth. Here are some key tasks that art therapists perform:

  • Assessment: They evaluate clients’ needs and determine the best approach to therapy.
  • Therapeutic Sessions: They conduct individual or group sessions where clients create art to explore their emotions and experiences.
  • Interpretation: They help clients understand the meaning behind their artwork and how it relates to their feelings and behaviors.
  • Treatment Planning: They develop personalized treatment plans to address clients’ specific issues and goals.
  • Documentation: They keep detailed records of clients’ progress and sessions.

Art therapists work with a diverse range of clients who experience a variety of challenges including:

  • Children and Adolescents: Helping young people cope with issues like trauma, anxiety, and behavioral problems.
  • Adults: Assisting individuals dealing with stress, depression, addiction, and other mental health challenges.
  • Elderly: Supporting seniors facing aging-related issues, such as dementia and loneliness.
  • Special Populations: Working with people with disabilities, chronic illnesses, or those who have experienced significant life changes.

Art therapists work in various settings, including hospitals, schools, mental health clinics, in private practice, and in community centers.

Becoming an art therapist requires a combination of education, training, and experience. Beginning in college, earning a bachelor’s degree in psychology and/or art is recommended. After completing your undergraduate degree, potential Art Therapists enroll in a master’s program in art therapy, which typically takes 2-3 years to complete. These programs include coursework in psychology, counseling, and art therapy techniques, as well as supervised clinical experience.

The salary for art therapists in the United States can vary based on factors like experience, location, and the specific work setting. Entry-level Art therapists typically earn around $45,000 per year. Experienced Art Therapists (8+years) on average earn $65,000+ per year.

Art therapy is a fulfilling career that allows you to combine your passion for art with a desire to help others. By guiding clients through the creative process, art therapists play a crucial role in promoting mental health and well-being. If you have a love for art and a commitment to helping people, this career might be the perfect fit for you.