The Growing Field of Music Therapy
Music therapy is a rapidly-evolving field within the medical community that utilizes various techniques to assist those with various needs, including those suffering from mental health conditions. It draws on people’s connections to music – whether that be singing, moving along to it, or creating it on their own – in order to facilitate healing and growth.
Research has demonstrated the power of music to transform a person’s mood and emotions quickly. It helps them experience various sensations such as happiness, sadness, excitement, and calmness.
Furthermore, music is processed differently than other types of stimuli by the brain. For instance, the cerebellum interprets rhythm, the front lobes decode emotions, and the right temporal lobe comprehends pitch.
These areas in the brain are responsible for producing a powerful physical reaction to music that can range from goosebumps to adrenaline releasing. Utilizing these feelings to alter someone’s mood is what makes music therapy such an effective treatment for mental health issues and improving quality of life.
Music therapy is an attractive bachelor’s degree option for those searching for an affordable bachelor’s degree. According to our research, this field offers more exciting career prospects and higher salaries than many other allied healthcare degrees.
Becoming a music therapist can be accomplished in several ways, but the best way to begin is by attending an accredited college with a music therapy program. This will guarantee you receive top quality education and prepare you for taking the MT-BC exam – necessary in order to become board-certified as a music therapist.
Some colleges provide an introductory music therapy course to help you determine if this career path is for you, and many provide a certificate to kickstart your professional journey. Furthermore, many institutions provide free or low-cost classes on music therapy for their students.
Music therapists are professionals who use music to promote healing and wellbeing in individuals, groups, or communities. To do this, they collaborate with their client by assessing their needs, setting therapeutic objectives, and implementing a treatment plan.
They may assist patients in improving communication skills, cognitive function, motor development, socialization or self-esteem. Furthermore, they have the capacity to reduce pain, anxiety and stress levels.
Although it is possible to become a music therapist without any prior experience, it is highly recommended that you receive training before entering the field. The American Music Therapy Association (AMTA) offers an accredited bachelor’s program which provides all of the necessary skills for this career.
When seeking a music therapy career, there are various opportunities available. You could work in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, private practices, nursing homes, schools and prisons; you could also join community-based organizations or non-profits.
You may consider earning a master’s or doctorate in music therapy to expand your career options and be recognized as an accomplished expert.