Top 25 Music Therapists Across the US
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What is a Music Therapist?
Learn about this specialty, training requirements, and when to schedule a visit.
A music therapist is a credentialed healthcare professional who uses evidence-based music interventions to address physical, emotional, cognitive, and social needs. Music therapists design individualized treatment plans using techniques such as songwriting, improvisation, lyric analysis, and rhythmic entrainment to achieve therapeutic goals in clinical, educational, and community settings.
Training and Qualifications
Becoming a music therapist requires extensive education and training:
- Bachelor's degree or higher in music therapy from an AMTA-approved program
- Coursework in music, psychology, anatomy, and clinical foundations
- 1,200 hours of supervised clinical training including a practicum and internship
- Passage of the Certification Board for Music Therapists (CBMT) examination
- Board certification maintained through continuing education every 5 years
Board Certification: The Certification Board for Music Therapists (CBMT) grants the Music Therapist-Board Certified (MT-BC) credential. This is the nationally recognized professional certification. Some states also require licensure to practice music therapy independently.
When Should You See a Music Therapist?
You should consider seeing a music therapist if:
- Your child has autism spectrum disorder and needs social-communication support
- You or a loved one has dementia and is experiencing agitation or withdrawal
- You are managing chronic pain and want non-pharmacological relief strategies
- You are undergoing rehabilitation for a stroke or traumatic brain injury
- You experience anxiety, depression, or PTSD and want an expressive therapy approach
- A child has developmental delays affecting speech, motor skills, or social interaction
Key Facts
Common Conditions Treated
Music Therapists are trained to diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions. Here are some of the most common conditions that music therapists help patients manage.
Autism Spectrum Disorder
A neurodevelopmental condition affecting social communication, behavior, and sensory processing, where music-based interventions improve engagement and skill development.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
Music therapists use structured musical activities to build joint attention, turn-taking, and verbal communication skills. Music provides a predictable, motivating framework that helps individuals with ASD engage socially, regulate sensory input, and express emotions in a safe environment.
Dementia & Cognitive Decline
Progressive loss of memory, thinking, and reasoning abilities where music therapy preserves function, reduces agitation, and improves quality of life.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
Music therapists use familiar songs and rhythmic activities to access preserved musical memory, reduce behavioral symptoms, and facilitate communication. Research shows music therapy decreases agitation, improves mood, and maintains cognitive engagement in individuals with Alzheimer's and related dementias.
Chronic Pain & Palliative Care
Ongoing pain conditions or end-of-life care where music therapy serves as a complementary intervention for pain reduction, emotional support, and quality of life.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
Music therapists use live music, guided imagery with music, and rhythmic entrainment to reduce pain perception, lower anxiety, and decrease the need for analgesic medication. In palliative care, music therapy supports emotional processing, legacy projects, and comfort during end-of-life transitions.
Important Note
This list represents common conditions but is not exhaustive. Music Therapists treat many other conditions related to their specialty. If you're experiencing symptoms or have concerns, consult with a qualified music therapist for a proper evaluation.
What to Expect During Your Visit
Understanding what happens during your appointment can help you feel more prepared. Here's what you can typically expect when visiting a music therapist.
Your First Visit
- Assessment of your musical preferences, history, and comfort level
- Discussion of therapeutic goals and how music interventions can address them
- Initial session may include listening, singing, instrument play, or songwriting
- No prior musical training or skill is required to benefit from music therapy
Diagnosis & Testing
- Music therapists do not diagnose medical or psychiatric conditions
- They conduct standardized music therapy assessments to identify strengths and needs
- Assessment results inform individualized treatment plan development
Treatment Options
- Active music-making including singing, drumming, and instrument play
- Receptive techniques such as music listening and guided imagery
- Songwriting and lyric analysis for emotional expression and processing
- Neurologic music therapy techniques for motor, speech, and cognitive rehabilitation
Tip for Your Visit
Bring a list of current medications, previous test results, and questions you want to ask. Writing down your symptoms—when they occur and what affects them—helps your music therapist provide accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.
How to Choose the Right Music Therapist
Finding the right healthcare provider is important for your health and peace of mind. Here are key factors to consider when selecting a music therapist.
Credentials to Verify
- Verify active MT-BC certification through the CBMT registry
- Check for state licensure if required in your state
- Look for additional training in your area of need (neurologic music therapy, NICU, hospice)
Important Considerations
- Experience with your specific population (pediatric, geriatric, psychiatric)
- Setting — whether they offer individual sessions, group sessions, or home visits
- Ability to coordinate with your existing medical or therapy team
- Session format and frequency that fits your schedule and goals
Quick Tip
Don't hesitate to schedule consultations with multiple music therapists before making your decision. The right fit isn't just about credentials—it's also about feeling comfortable and confident in your care.
Cost and Insurance Information
Understanding the costs associated with seeing a music therapist can help you plan for your healthcare needs.
Average Costs (Without Insurance)
Initial Visit
$75-150 for an initial assessment session (45-60 minutes)
Follow-up Visit
$60-120 per individual session (30-45 minutes)
Common Procedures
Note: These are estimated average costs and can vary based on location, provider, and specific services required.
Insurance Coverage
- Coverage varies widely by state and insurer
- Some plans cover music therapy under behavioral health or rehabilitation benefits
- Music therapy in hospitals and hospice is often covered as part of the care plan
Medicare Information
Medicare does not have a specific benefit category for music therapy. However, music therapy services provided in hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, or hospice may be covered as part of an interdisciplinary treatment plan.
Money-Saving Tips
- 1Always verify your music therapist is in-network before scheduling
- 2Ask about self-pay discounts if you don't have insurance
- 3Inquire about payment plans for expensive procedures
- 4Get prior authorization when required to avoid claim denials
- 5Use FSA or HSA funds for eligible medical expenses
Sources & References
Information about music therapists is sourced from peer-reviewed medical literature and authoritative organizations.
Last updated: March 2026
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about music therapists
Do I need to be musically talented to benefit from music therapy?
No. Music therapy is designed for everyone regardless of musical ability. The therapist tailors interventions to your comfort level and preferences. The therapeutic benefit comes from the clinical use of music elements — rhythm, melody, harmony — not from musical performance skill.
What is the difference between a music therapist and a music teacher?
A board-certified music therapist (MT-BC) is a healthcare professional who uses music as a clinical tool to address physical, emotional, cognitive, and social goals. A music teacher focuses on music education and performance skills. Music therapists complete 1,200+ clinical training hours and pass a national board exam.
Is music therapy effective for children with autism?
Yes. Multiple systematic reviews and randomized controlled trials show music therapy improves social communication, joint attention, emotional reciprocity, and verbal output in children with ASD. The structured, predictable nature of music is particularly effective for engaging children on the spectrum.
How many music therapy sessions are typically needed?
Treatment length varies based on goals and condition. Short-term interventions may last 8-12 sessions, while ongoing conditions like autism or dementia often benefit from weekly sessions over months or years. Your music therapist will set measurable goals and adjust the plan as progress occurs.
Medical disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider with questions about a medical condition. If you have a medical emergency, call 911. Our editorial standards