Music Therapy Jobs in California
Are you a music enthusiast, looking to express your creativity or work in an area that helps others? A career as a music therapist could be just what the doctor ordered! While this job is not suitable for everyone, it can provide rewarding opportunities by helping individuals recover from illness or injury and reclaim life’s joys.
The initial step toward becoming a music therapist is earning your bachelor’s degree in music therapy or its equivalent. This four-year program integrates academic study with clinical internship experience, covering theory and practice of music therapy treatment procedures and techniques. Furthermore, at least 1200 hours of fieldwork must be completed with at least three different populations within community or on-campus facilities.
Once you graduate, you can take the Certification Board for Music Therapists’ exam to earn your credential – this is required in most states and also available through the American Music Therapy Association (AMTA). With your degree and credentials in hand, you are ready to start working as a music therapist and start earning money!
On average, music therapist jobs pay $56K annually; however, you may make more if you work in high-paying cities such as Los Angeles. Jobs may be found at hospitals, nursing homes, daycare centers and schools; you may even find private practices where you work with your own clients.
A certificate in music therapy from an AMTA-approved college or university can be earned. Alternatively, you may choose to pursue either a master’s degree in music therapy or obtain your doctorate.
In addition to earning a degree, you must become a member of the American Music Therapy Association and register with the Certification Board for Music Therapists. Becoming part of these organizations provides access to free continuing education opportunities as well as professional resources.
A therapist works with patients of all ages, from infants to the elderly suffering from Alzheimer’s. Their job involves making sure their clients receive proper medical care and treatment, as well as aiding healing and recovery. They may provide assistance with pain control, stress reduction, memory improvement, and improved communication skills.
They can comfort patients who are experiencing pain or comatose. In some instances, they may even use their voices to communicate with those unable to speak or move.
Music therapy sessions can be beneficial for children with autism or other developmental disabilities. These therapists usually possess special education training and can instruct their patients how to sing songs that promote social interaction more effectively. Furthermore, they provide activities designed to improve motor function, social skills, coordination, and self-expression.
