Top 11 Music Therapist Certifications

Certifications are an important factor in the job market for music therapists. A certification demonstrates that the music therapist has completed the necessary education and training to be a qualified practitioner. It also shows potential employers that the therapist is up-to-date on current research and best practices in music therapy, which can help them stand out from other candidates who may not have a certification. Additionally, many organizations require certifications as part of their hiring process, so having one can significantly improve a music therapist’s chances of getting hired. Finally, certifications can provide assurance to clients that the therapist they are working with is qualified and competent, further increasing their trust in the services provided.

This article reviews the top certifications for Music Therapists and explains how they can contribute to a music therapist's career.

What are Music Therapist Certifications?

Music therapist certification is a process that requires successful completion of rigorous academic and clinical training, as well as the passing of the national board certification examination. Music therapists are healthcare professionals who use music to help their clients achieve therapeutic goals in areas such as physical rehabilitation, psychological and emotional healing, stress reduction and relaxation, cognitive functioning, communication and social/interpersonal skills development.

The American Music Therapy Association (AMTA) offers national board-certified music therapist (MT-BC) credentials to those who have met its requirements for education, clinical training, and professional experience. Becoming certified through the AMTA demonstrates that a music therapist has achieved a certain level of competency in providing quality therapeutic services.

Having a certification can benefit music therapists by increasing their professional credibility within the field of music therapy. It also gives them access to more job opportunities and higher salaries than those without certifications. Furthermore, it provides an assurance that they are up-to-date on the latest developments in their field and have completed all necessary academic and clinical training requirements. Additionally, having a certification may open doors to other career opportunities such as teaching or consulting. Finally, it allows them to network with other certified professionals in order to stay abreast of new developments in the field or learn from each other’s experiences.

Pro Tip: When pursuing music therapist certification, make sure to research the requirements in your state or country. Each jurisdiction typically has different requirements for becoming a certified music therapist, such as educational background, clinical experience, and written exams. Familiarizing yourself with these requirements ahead of time can help ensure that you have all the necessary qualifications before you begin the certification process.

Related: What does a Music Therapist do?

Top 11 Music Therapist Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Music Therapists today.

1. Board Certified Music Therapist (MT-BC)

Board Certified Music Therapist (MT-BC) is a credential granted by the Certification Board for Music Therapists (CBMT). It is a professional credential that demonstrates that an individual has met the highest standards of music therapy practice. To become board certified, an individual must complete an approved music therapy program, pass a written and practical exam, and demonstrate competency in the areas of assessment, treatment planning and implementation, documentation, and professional development.

It typically takes two to four years to become board certified. During this time, individuals must complete a minimum of 1,200 hours of clinical training under the supervision of a qualified music therapist. They must also pass the CBMT's written and practical exams.

To get board certified as a music therapist, you will need to complete an approved music therapy program at either the bachelor's or master's level. You will also need to take and pass the CBMT's written and practical exams. Additionally, you will need to obtain 1,200 hours of supervised clinical experience in order to qualify for certification.

The cost of becoming board certified as a music therapist varies depending on factors such as where you attend school and whether or not you are eligible for financial aid or scholarships. Generally speaking, however, it can cost anywhere from $15,000-$50,000+ depending on your circumstances.

2. Registered Music Therapist (RMT)

Registered Music Therapist (RMT) is a professional who uses music to help people of all ages and backgrounds to improve their physical, emotional, cognitive, and social functioning. Music therapy can be used for a variety of purposes, including helping individuals cope with stress, manage pain, or improve communication skills. It is an evidence-based practice that is recognized by the American Music Therapy Association (AMTA).

To become an RMT, individuals must complete an approved music therapy program from an accredited college or university. This typically involves completing coursework in music theory and performance as well as clinical training in various settings. After completing the educational requirements, individuals must pass the national board examination administered by the Certification Board for Music Therapists (CBMT). Once certified, therapists must maintain their certification through continuing education credits.

The cost of becoming an RMT varies depending on the program chosen and whether financial aid is available. Generally speaking, tuition for a bachelor’s degree in music therapy ranges from $15,000 to $30,000 per year. In addition to tuition costs there are also fees associated with taking the CBMT exam which range from $225-$300 depending on when you register for it.

In total it typically takes four years to become a Registered Music Therapist if attending school full time. However some students may take longer or shorter depending on their individual situation and availability of classes.

3. Certified Neurologic Music Therapist (NMT)

Certified Neurologic Music Therapist (NMT) is a credential awarded by the Certification Board for Music Therapists (CBMT). It is an advanced certification that recognizes music therapists who have demonstrated expertise in providing music therapy services to individuals with neurological disorders. This certification requires the completion of additional coursework and clinical experience beyond the basic music therapy degree.

It typically takes two years to become certified as an NMT. The first year involves completing a minimum of 30 hours of coursework related to neurologic music therapy, including topics such as anatomy and physiology, neuroscience, clinical assessment and treatment planning, and evidence-based practice. The second year involves completing at least 500 hours of supervised clinical experience with individuals who have neurological disorders.

To become certified as an NMT, applicants must be currently registered or eligible for registration as a music therapist with the CBMT and have completed all required coursework and clinical experience. They must also pass a written examination administered by the CBMT.

The cost of becoming certified as an NMT varies depending on the amount of coursework taken and other factors such as travel expenses for attending conferences or workshops related to neurologic music therapy. In general, it can cost anywhere from $1,000-$3,000 to become certified as an NMT.

4. Fellow of the Association for Music and Imagery (FAMI)

The Fellow of the Association for Music and Imagery (FAMI) is a professional certification program offered by the Association for Music and Imagery (AMI). The program recognizes music and imagery professionals who demonstrate a high level of knowledge, skill, and experience in their field.

To become a Fellow of the Association for Music and Imagery, applicants must have at least five years of professional experience in music or imagery related fields. They must also have completed at least six hours of approved continuing education courses in music and imagery related topics.

In addition to these requirements, applicants must pass an examination administered by AMI. This exam covers topics such as music theory, composition techniques, sound design principles, image manipulation techniques, digital media production principles, and other areas related to music and imagery. Once an applicant passes the exam they are eligible to become a Fellow of the Association for Music and Imagery.

The cost to become a Fellow of the Association for Music and Imagery is $500 USD. This fee covers both the application fee as well as the cost of taking the exam. It typically takes around 6-8 weeks from when an applicant submits their application until they receive their results from AMI.

5. Certified Group Psychotherapist in Music Therapy (CGPMT)

Certified Group Psychotherapist in Music Therapy (CGPMT) is a certification offered by the American Music Therapy Association (AMTA). This certification is designed to recognize music therapists who have demonstrated advanced knowledge, skills and abilities in group psychotherapy. The CGPMT credential is intended for those who use music as a primary modality in their clinical practice.

The CGPMT certification requires applicants to have completed an approved graduate program in music therapy with a minimum of three years of professional experience, including at least one year of supervised group psychotherapy experience. Applicants must also pass the AMTA’s written examination for Certified Group Psychotherapist in Music Therapy.

The cost for the exam is $150 and it can take up to 6 months to receive your results after taking the exam. Once you have passed the exam, you will be eligible to apply for the CGPMT credential. The cost of applying for this credential is $50 and it can take up to 8 weeks to receive your results after submitting your application.

Once you have been awarded the CGPMT credential, you will be able to use this designation on all your professional materials, such as business cards, resumes, websites and more. You will also be listed on the AMTA website as a Certified Group Psychotherapist in Music Therapy and will be eligible for continuing education credits related to group psychotherapy through AMTA’s Continuing Education Program.

6. Certified Clinical Trauma Professional in Music Therapy (CCTPMT)

The Certified Clinical Trauma Professional in Music Therapy (CCTPMT) is a certification program offered by the American Music Therapy Association (AMTA). It is designed to recognize music therapists who have achieved advanced knowledge and skills in the field of trauma-informed music therapy. The CCTPMT certification acknowledges that the music therapist has met rigorous standards for clinical practice, including specialized training in trauma-informed care, evidence-based trauma interventions, and ethical considerations related to working with clients with a history of trauma.

To become certified as a CCTPMT, you must complete an approved course of study and pass an exam administered by AMTA. The course of study consists of two parts: 1) completion of 45 hours of pre-approved coursework; and 2) successful completion of a written examination. The pre-approved courses include topics such as trauma theory, assessment strategies, interventions for trauma survivors, ethics in working with traumatized individuals, and professional development strategies.

The cost for the CCTPMT certification program depends on the courses taken to fulfill the 45 hours requirement. Most courses range from $50-$200 per hour. In addition to the cost of courses, there is an application fee ($50), examination fee ($150), and annual renewal fee ($50).

In total, it takes approximately 6 months to complete all requirements for CCTPMT certification.

7. Certified Creative Arts Therapist in Music Therapy (CCATM)

A Certified Creative Arts Therapist in Music Therapy (CCATM) is a professional certification that recognizes music therapists who have achieved and maintained a high level of expertise in the practice of music therapy. It is awarded by the Certification Board for Music Therapists (CBMT).

To become certified, applicants must meet certain requirements, including:

1. Completion of an approved music therapy program at the baccalaureate or higher degree level;

2. A minimum of 1,200 hours of clinical experience under the supervision of a board-certified music therapist;

3. Passing scores on CBMT's Music Therapy Clinical Simulation Examination; and

4. Submission of a portfolio demonstrating knowledge and skills related to professional practice.

The certification process typically takes six months to one year to complete, depending on how quickly applicants can fulfill all requirements. The cost to apply for CCATM certification is $250 plus any additional fees associated with taking the Music Therapy Clinical Simulation Examination ($225).

8. Certified Child Life Specialist in Music Therapy (CCLSM)

Certified Child Life Specialist in Music Therapy (CCLSM) is a credential offered by the Certification Board for Music Therapists (CBMT). This certification recognizes music therapists who have specialized knowledge and skills in providing therapeutic interventions to children and their families. The CCLSM requires applicants to have completed at least 1000 hours of supervised clinical experience, including 600 hours with children and their families. In addition, applicants must pass a written exam administered by CBMT.

It typically takes two years to complete the requirements for the CCLSM credential. To get started, applicants must first become a Registered Music Therapist (RMT) by completing an approved music therapy program and passing the CBMT board certification exam. Once certified as an RMT, applicants can begin accumulating supervised clinical experience and preparing for the CCLSM exam.

The cost of obtaining the CCLSM credential varies depending on individual circumstances. The fee for taking the written exam is $200, and additional fees may be required if additional supervision or courses are necessary to meet eligibility requirements.

9. Certified Rehabilitation Counselor in Music Therapy (CRCM)

Certified Rehabilitation Counselor in Music Therapy (CRCM) is a professional certification that recognizes the specialized knowledge and skills of counselors who work with individuals with disabilities. The certification is offered by the American Music Therapy Association (AMTA).

To become certified, applicants must have completed an AMTA-approved music therapy program and have at least two years of post-degree experience working as a music therapist. They must also pass a written examination administered by the AMTA.

The cost of taking the exam varies depending on the location, but typically ranges from $150 to $300. In addition, there may be other costs associated with preparing for and taking the exam, such as study materials or travel expenses.

It usually takes several months to prepare for and take the exam, depending on how much time you are able to dedicate to studying. Once you have successfully passed the exam, your certification will be valid for five years before it needs to be renewed.

10. Licensed Professional Counselor in Music Therapy (LPCM)

Licensed Professional Counselor in Music Therapy (LPCM) is a professional certification for counselors who specialize in the use of music therapy. Music therapy is an evidence-based practice that uses music interventions to address physical, emotional, cognitive, and social needs of individuals. The LPCM certification demonstrates the counselor’s expertise in the field of music therapy and their commitment to providing quality care.

In order to obtain the LPCM certification, one must have completed a master’s degree or higher in counseling or a related field from an accredited institution, be licensed as a professional counselor by their state board of licensure, have completed at least 200 hours of supervised clinical experience in music therapy, and pass the national board examination for music therapists.

The cost of obtaining the LPCM certification varies depending on where you live and what type of training you are pursuing. It typically takes between two to four years to complete all requirements for the credential. The cost can range from $500-$2,000 depending on the program selected and any additional fees associated with it.

11. Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Music Therapy (LMFTM).

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Music Therapy (LMFTM) is a specialized license that allows marriage and family therapists to use music therapy as an intervention in their practice. This license requires additional training beyond the basic marriage and family therapist licensure requirements.

In order to obtain the LMFTM license, applicants must complete a master's degree in music therapy from an accredited college or university, as well as supervised clinical experience under the supervision of a board-certified music therapist. Additionally, applicants must pass the national exam for music therapists administered by the Certification Board for Music Therapists. After passing this exam, applicants may apply for the LMFTM license through their state licensing board.

The cost of obtaining the LMFTM license varies by state depending on application fees and other costs associated with obtaining licensure. Generally speaking, it can take up to two years to complete all of the necessary steps required to obtain this license.

Do You Really Need a Music Therapist Certificate?

The short answer to this question is no, you do not need a music therapist certificate to practice music therapy. Music therapy is a type of therapeutic intervention that uses music as its primary mode of communication. A person does not need any formal training or certification in order to practice music therapy, although many practitioners have received some form of academic or professional qualification.

That being said, there are some benefits to having a certificate in music therapy. Most notably, it can give clients and potential employers confidence that you know what you’re doing and that you’re qualified to provide the service they’re seeking. Additionally, having a certificate can open up more opportunities for employment and career advancement within the field of music therapy. Finally, having a recognized credential may also give you more credibility with colleagues and peers within the field.

In conclusion, while it is not necessary to have a music therapist certificate in order to practice music therapy, there are some advantages to having one. If you are considering pursuing a career in this field, it may be worth your time and effort to look into obtaining a certificate from an accredited program or institution.

Related: Music Therapist Resume Examples

FAQs About Music Therapist Certifications

Q1: What is a music therapist certification?

A1: A music therapy certification is a credential awarded to individuals who have completed an accredited program in music therapy and passed an examination administered by the Certification Board for Music Therapists (CBMT). The certification provides assurance that the individual has met standards of professional practice and is qualified to provide quality services as a music therapist.

Q2: What are the requirements for becoming a certified music therapist?

A2: To become a certified music therapist, you must first complete an approved program in music therapy from an accredited college or university. After completing your degree, you must then pass the CBMT examination. In some cases, additional clinical experience may be required.

Q3: How long does it take to become a certified music therapist?

A3: The time it takes to become a certified music therapist varies depending on the individual’s educational background and experience. On average, it takes approximately two years to complete an accredited program in music therapy and pass the CBMT examination.

Q4: Is there ongoing continuing education required after becoming certified?

A4: Yes, all certified music therapists must complete continuing education activities each year in order to maintain their certification status. Continuing education activities include attending conferences, workshops, seminars, or taking online courses related to the practice of music therapy.

Q5: Are there any other organizations that offer certifications for music therapists?

A5: Yes, some states have their own licensing boards that offer specialized certifications for their state’s licensed professionals in addition to the national credential offered by CBMT. Additionally, several professional organizations such as AMTA (American Music Therapy Association) and NAMT (National Association for Music Therapy) also offer board certifications for specific areas within the field of music therapy.