Music Therapist
SaveMusic therapists use music to help people improve their physical, emotional, and cognitive health. They work with people of all ages and backgrounds, including those with disabilities, illnesses, or injuries. Music therapists may use music to help people relax, reduce stress, improve mood, and cope with pain. They may also use music to help people develop social skills, improve communication, and increase self-esteem.
Day-to-Day
A typical day for a music therapist may include:
- Meeting with clients to assess their needs
- Developing and implementing music therapy plans
- Leading music therapy sessions
- Documenting client progress
- Collaborating with other healthcare professionals
Necessary Skills
Music therapists need a strong foundation in music and music therapy techniques. They should also have excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Other important skills for music therapists include:
- Empathy
- Patience
- Creativity
- Problem-solving skills
- Organizational skills
Education and Training
Music therapists typically need a bachelor's degree in music therapy or a related field. Some states also require music therapists to be licensed. Music therapists can also pursue advanced degrees, such as a master's degree or doctorate in music therapy.
Career Growth
Music therapists can advance their careers by specializing in a particular area of music therapy, such as working with children, adults, or the elderly. They can also pursue leadership roles, such as becoming a music therapy supervisor or director.
Transferable Skills
The skills that music therapists develop can be transferred to other careers, such as:
- Counseling
- Social work
- Education
- Healthcare
Challenges
Music therapists may face challenges, such as:
- Working with clients who have complex needs
- Dealing with the emotional challenges of clients
- Finding employment in a competitive job market
Personal Growth
Music therapists have the opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of their clients. They can also learn a great deal about themselves and about the power of music.
Personality Traits and Personal Interests
Music therapists who are successful tend to be:
- Empathetic
- Patient
- Creative
- Organized
- Good communicators
Music therapists may also have a personal interest in:
- Music
- Psychology
- Healthcare
- Social work
Self-Guided Projects
Students who are interested in becoming music therapists can complete self-guided projects to better prepare themselves for this role. Some projects that students may consider completing include:
- Volunteering at a music therapy clinic
- Shadowing a music therapist
- Conducting research on music therapy
- Writing a paper on a topic related to music therapy
Online Courses
Online courses can be a helpful way for students to learn about music therapy and to develop the skills that they need to succeed in this career. Online courses can provide students with the flexibility to learn at their own pace and on their own schedule. Students can also learn from experts in the field of music therapy and gain access to resources that they may not be able to find elsewhere.
Online courses can help students to develop a strong foundation in music therapy. Students can learn about the history of music therapy, the different approaches to music therapy, and the evidence-based benefits of music therapy. Students can also develop practical skills, such as how to assess clients, develop music therapy plans, and lead music therapy sessions.
Whether online courses alone are enough to follow a path to this career depends on the individual's goals and circumstances. Some students may find that online courses provide them with the knowledge and skills they need to enter the field of music therapy. Others may find that they need to supplement their online learning with additional training, such as a practicum or internship.
