What is Music Therapy?
Music Therapy Definition (from the American Music Therapy Association): Music Therapy is the clinical & evidence-based use of music interventions to accomplish individualized goals within a therapeutic relationship by a credentialed professional who has completed an approved music therapy program. Music therapy interventions can address a variety of healthcare & educational goals:
Promote Wellness
Manage Stress
Alleviate Pain
Express Feelings
Enhance Memory
Improve Communication
Promote Physical Rehabilitation
and more
What is Music Therapy? AMTA Official Definition of Music Therapy as accessed on September 4, 2025.
Scope of practice
Music Therapy is an established health profession in which music is used within a therapeutic relationship to address physical, emotional, cognitive, and social needs of individuals. After assessing the strengths and needs of each client, the qualified music therapist provides the indicated treatment including creating, singing, moving to, and/or listening to music. Through musical involvement in the therapeutic context, clients' abilities are strengthened and transferred to other areas of their lives. Music therapy also provides avenues for communication that can be helpful to those who find it difficult to express themselves in words. Research in music therapy supports its effectiveness in many areas such as: overall physical rehabilitation and facilitating movement, increasing people's motivation to become engaged in their treatment, providing emotional support for clients and their families, and providing an outlet for expression of feelings.
Scope of Music Therapy Practice | American Music Therapy Association (AMTA) as accessed on September 4, 2025.
Work with a music therapist!
Music therapists work across the state of New York, from Buffalo all the way down to the boroughs of New York City. Click the button below to find someone near you!
Interested in becoming a music therapist?
Music therapy is a professional field of study that requires at least a bachelor’s degree in music therapy to practice. Click the button below to learn more about the path to becoming a music therapist!
