the clinical, evidence-based use of music intervention to accomplish individualized goals within therapeutic relationships by a credentialed professional who has completed an approved music therapy program

-American Music Therapy Association 

What is music therapy?

Music therapy is a clinical and evidence-based health profession that utilizes music as a therapeutic tool to support a variety of populations in achieving individualized goals through a therapeutic relationship with a credentialed professional. Effective use of music as a beneficial medium depends on the appropriate use by the therapist. The therapist must be a good musician as well as a good therapist, and must employ skill and knowledge of health problems in addition to tested theories of practice. Music is a powerful medium because it is a universal phenomenon experienced by all cultures, and its dynamic nature allows it to be flexibly used in myriad contexts. The effectiveness and generalization of skills in response to music therapy practice continues to be demonstrated through research.

The purpose of music therapy is to achieve goals and objectives that are specific to each individual client. These goals fall into several basic domains of human functioning, including physical/motor, cognitive, emotional, communication, psychosocial, and musical. Improvement of overall quality of life is another integral aim of the practice.

Who can benefit?