What is Music Therapy?

Music Therapy
 
is the prescribed use of music and musical interventions for the purpose of restoring, maintaining and improving emotional, physical, physiological and spiritual health and well-being.Music therapy treatment is administered by a board-certified music therapist to persons of all ages who require special services because of behavioral, social, learning, or physical disabilities. Music therapy services can be conducted in  hospitals, health clinics, day care facilities, schools, mental health centers, substance abuse facilities, nursing homes, hospices, rehabilitation centers, correctional facilities, and private homes. Music Therapy treatment addresses non-musical goals. Therefore, no musical ability is needed in order for the client to benefit from Music Therapy treatment.
 The Music  Therapist
 
Music therapy is a clinical specialty. Music therapists have formal training not only in music but in psychology and in the assessment of psychological conditions. An accredited training program in Music Therapy includes extensive course work, field work, and a clinical internship. After graduation, the candidate must pass an exam to become nationally certified by the Certification Board for Music Therapists. The credential "MT-BC" means "Music Therapist, Board Certified."