What is it?

The American Music Therapy Association defines Music Therapy as "the clinical and evidenced-based use of music interventions to accomplish individualized goals within a therapeutic relationship by a credentialed professional who has completed an approved music therapy program" (2023). 

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I describe music therapy as a creative therapeutic approach. MT is similar to speech, physical, occupational, and recreational therapies, however,  MT utilizes musical strategies to reach the individualized goals for the client. For example, a client processing emotional trauma - Instead of just talking to process your feelings, let's write a song together and put your emotions into something special. 

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Where does Music Therapy take place? 

The most common settings for music therapy include hospitals, schools, mental health clinics, nursing homes, outpatient clinics, and residencies for individuals with developmental disabilities. It is also common for music therapists to have their own private-practice. 

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I am currently a traveling music therapist. I visit clients all across northern Michigan (primarily Emmet County). If I cannot make it to your area but you still are interested in services, I offer Virtual Sessions. Someday, I plan on opening my own clinic space in Emmet County, but for now, I will drive to you! 

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How does one become a Music Therapist? ​

• Bachelor's degree or better in music therapy or directly related field.

• Receive 1,200 hours of clinical training, including a supervised 6 month internship. 

• Pass a national board certification exam administered by the Certification Board for Music Therapists.

Music Therapy addresses the following domains: 

• Cognitive

• Emotional

• Motor 

• Communication 

• Social 

• Spiritual 

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Who benefits from Music Therapy? 

• Alzheimers Disease and Related Dementias 

• Autism 

• Down Syndrome 

• Child, Adolescent, and Adult Behavior Health 

• Correctional or Forensic Settings 

• Neurological Rehabilitation (Traumatic Brain Injuries, Spinal Cord Injuries, Stroke etc.)

• Crisis and Trauma 

*This is just a brief list - Many more populations benefit from this unique service. 

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American Music Therapy Association Fact Sheets:

https://www.musictherapy.org/research/factsheets/ 

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