Music Therapists
Music therapists use music-based interventions to support patients' physical, psychological, cognitive, and behavioral health. They work in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, mental health clinics, schools, nursing homes, and private practice settings. The role involves planning and delivering evidence-based sessions tailored to individual client needs.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against music therapists and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A music therapist's week typically includes one-on-one and group sessions with clients, where they might play instruments, sing, listen to music, or compose together based on treatment goals. Sessions are documented and progress is tracked. Time is also spent preparing materials, collaborating with other healthcare professionals, staying current with research, and assessing client outcomes to adjust interventions as needed.
Who this work suits
Holland code SAI. Social work is helping, teaching and working closely with people. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You thrive when combining artistic creativity with a genuine desire to help others improve their well-being. You excel in roles that blend social connection and emotional expression, and you're drawn to understanding how music can address real health challenges across different populations and settings.
What it takes
Preparation: Considerable preparation (most need a bachelor’s degree and several years of experience). Most people in this occupation hold a bachelor’s degree.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Who is hiring
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| District of Columbia | $81,020 | $127,010 | $130,000 | 80 |
| Illinois | $65,750 | $116,200 | $193,760 | 1,060 |
| New Jersey | $78,080 | $100,250 | $131,690 | 7,090 |
| Hawaii | $65,650 | $99,560 | $99,560 | 40 |
| Washington | $89,690 | $98,550 | $98,550 | — |
| South Carolina | $59,990 | $90,980 | $129,040 | 70 |
| Delaware | $68,410 | $90,120 | $104,000 | 30 |
| Nebraska | $65,570 | $86,900 | $128,310 | 40 |
| Rhode Island | $78,210 | $86,400 | $91,000 | 90 |
| Oregon | $72,940 | $81,860 | $101,150 | 170 |
| California | $70,730 | $81,760 | $105,140 | 840 |
| New York | $65,190 | $77,980 | $95,790 | 1,110 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- Music Therapist - Board Certified (MT-BC) — Certification Board for Music Therapists
- Certified Sex Therapist (CST) — American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors and Therapists
- Certified Sex Therapist Supervisor — American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors and Therapists
- Registered Drama Therapist (RDT) — North American Drama Therapy Association
- Board Certified Art Therapist (ATR-BC) — Art Therapy Credentials Board
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against music therapists and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 29-1129.02 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.