Music Therapists
Plan, organize, direct, or assess clinical and evidenced-based music therapy interventions to positively influence individuals' physical, psychological, cognitive, or behavioral status.
Common Job Titles
- Board Certified Music Therapist (MT-BC)
- LCAT (Licensed Creative Arts Therapist)
- Music Therapist
- Neurologic Music Therapist
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generatedKey competencies for this occupation at a glance
- KnowledgeDesign evidence-based music therapy interventions tailored to individuals' physical, psychological, cognitive, and behavioral needs across diverse clinical settings.Advanced
- KnowledgeSynthesize knowledge from psychology, therapy, and fine arts to create innovative, client-centered music interventions that address complex therapeutic goals.Advanced
- MindsetIntegrate social perceptiveness with active listening skills when establishing and maintaining therapeutic relationships with clients from diverse populations.Proficient
- KnowledgeEvaluate client responses to music therapy interventions using continuous monitoring and clinical assessment to inform treatment modifications.Proficient
- Hands-onPerform live music on multiple instruments (guitar, piano, percussion) to facilitate therapeutic engagement and achieve clinical objectives during individual and group sessions.Proficient
- KnowledgeAnalyze client behavioral, emotional, and physiological data to assess treatment efficacy and document progress in clinical records and EHR systems.Proficient
- MindsetAdvocate for client-centered care principles and ethical practices when collaborating with interdisciplinary healthcare teams and communicating with external stakeholders.Proficient
- KnowledgeDevelop individualized treatment objectives and therapeutic strategies based on comprehensive client assessments and evidence-based music therapy research.Proficient
- KnowledgeInterpret current research in therapy, psychology, and music neuroscience to continuously update clinical practice and maintain professional competency.Proficient
- MindsetBalance therapeutic boundaries with empathetic care when assisting and caring for clients with complex physical, psychological, or behavioral needs.Proficient
- KnowledgeApply teaching and coaching techniques to facilitate skill development and therapeutic progress in clients across various age groups and diagnoses.Developing
- Hands-onOperate music technology equipment including digital audio recorders, MIDI software, and electronic keyboards to enhance therapeutic interventions and document clinical sessions.Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Music Therapists (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
19,320
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $38,840. 25th percentile: U.S. $49,510. 50th percentile: U.S. $65,010. 75th percentile: U.S. $85,010. 90th percentile: U.S. $120,050. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
- U.S.
| Metric | U.S. |
|---|---|
| 10% of workers earn the following or less | $38,840 |
| 10% of workers earn the following or more | $120,050 |
| Workers on average earn | $73,800 |
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
- Therapy and Counseling4.9/5
- Psychology4.9/5
- Fine Arts4.8/5
- English Language4.1/5
- Sociology and Anthropology3.9/5
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
- Microsoft Office software
Technology Skills
- Avid Technology Pro Tools
- Electronic health record EHR software
- Email software
- Musical instrument digital interface MIDI software
- Virtual instrument software
- Web browser software
Tools & Equipment
- Acoustic guitars
- Autoharps
- Automatic blood pressure cuffs
- Bass drums
- Cellos
- Compact disk CD players
- Computer laser printers
- Digital audio recorders