Why certification?

Board Certification through the Certification Board for Music Therapists (CBMT) represents a commitment—a commitment to a high level of knowledge, professionalism, and client safety. When you work with a board certified music therapist (MT-BC), you can expect them to have a consistent base of knowledge on music therapy protocol and standards of care. To earn the MT-BC certification, a music therapist must complete an approved course of education, pass the board certification exam and complete 100 hours of continuing education every five years.

How is board-certification different than licensure?

Not every state has a large enough base of music therapists to maintain a licensure board. In the 1980s, the National Association for Music Therapy explored options for a nationwide certification that would ensure that practicing music therapists met standards for the industry. CBMT was formed as an independent credentialing agency.

Does Board Certification really reflect current health care trends and practices?

CBMT conducts a practice analysis every five years. The Board Certification Domains reflect the results of the practice analysis. Both the exam and recertification requirements are based on these domains. Current domains fall into four categories: 1. Referral, Assessment and Treatment Planning, 2. Treatment Implementation and Termination, 3. Ongoing Documentation and Evaluation of Treatment, 4. Professional Development and Responsibilities

Does Board certification for Music Therapists prevent non-credentialed or other credentialed musicians from providing entertainment, volunteering or playing for loved ones in the medical setting?

Every facility has their own policies on who may volunteer or work there but the American Music Therapy Association (AMTA) makes this statement.

“Music therapists recognize that in order for clients to benefit from an integrated, holistic treatment approach, there will be some overlap in services provided by multiple professions. We acknowledge that other professionals may use music, as appropriate, as long as they are working within their scope.” (AMTA 2015)