Becoming a music therapist is a rewarding journey that often starts with a connection to music and an interest in how it can be used to help others. While every music therapist has their own unique experiences and goals, there are similar steps along the way that help prepare them for a career in music therapy.
From university coursework and clinical observations to hands-on experiences and internships, each stage provides opportunities to learn, grow, and develop the skills needed to become a board-certified music therapist.
It Starts At University
The journey begins in a university music therapy program, where students learn about music, psychology, human development, and how music can be used to support individuals with different needs.
During their studies, students also have opportunities to observe board-certified music therapists in action. These observations allow students to see what music therapy looks like in real settings, how therapists engage with clients, and how musical experiences are adapted to support individual goals.
As students continue their education, they begin participating in semester-long practicums. These are supervised clinical experiences where students get to apply what they are learning in the classroom.
Practicums may take place in a variety of settings, including special education programs, adult day centers, mental health programs, hospitals, and more!
Each setting provides a different learning experience and helps students discover the populations and areas of music therapy they may be interested in pursuing.
The Next Step: Music Therapy Internship!
After completing their university coursework and required practicum experiences, students move on to one of the most exciting parts of their journey: their music therapy internship!
A music therapy internship typically includes at least 1,040 hours of supervised clinical training and is an opportunity for students to further develop their skills before entering the profession.
At our program, interns work in collaboration with our team of board-certified music therapists, beginning with observations and co-leading sessions before gradually taking on more responsibility and independently facilitating sessions under supervision.
Our goal is to help interns build confidence, develop their clinical skills, and learn how to adapt to the different needs of the individuals and communities we serve.
But the internship experience goes beyond clinical sessions!
Our interns also become part of our team and participate in community events, recitals, summer camps, team trainings, and even team hangouts! We believe that learning how to collaborate, build relationships, and be part of a supportive team is just as important as developing clinical skills.
Becoming Board-Certified!
After successfully completing their academic and clinical training requirements, the next step is taking the music therapy board certification exam through the Certification Board for Music Therapists (CBMT).
For many students, preparing for the board exam can feel a little intimidating! However, with consistent studying, preparation, and support from mentors and fellow music therapists, this milestone is absolutely achievable.
Once they pass the exam, they officially earn the credential of Music Therapist–Board Certified (MT-BC)!
One of the wonderful things about music therapy is that there are so many different paths to explore.
Some music therapists choose to work directly with clients, while others develop and manage programs, supervise future music therapists, conduct research, or teach at universities.
There is no single path that every music therapist has to follow. Each person brings their own experiences, strengths, and interests into the profession.
Whether someone is just beginning their observations as a university student, starting their internship, or celebrating their board certification, every stage is an important part of their journey.
We love having the opportunity to support future music therapists and watch them grow as students, clinicians, and professionals!