Graduates of colleges or universities from the more than 70 approved music therapy programs are eligible to take a certification examination in music therapy. CBMT programs meet or exceed the same standards licensing boards adhere to in test development and administration. The MT-BC credential is maintained through certification reexamination every five years or upon successful completion and documentation of 100 Continuing Music Therapy Education Units. Any individual who does not have proper training and credentials is not qualified to provide music therapy services. Music therapists offer services in psychiatric treatment centers, out patient clinics, community mental health centers, drug and alcohol programs, rehabilitation facilities, half way houses, medical hospitals, senior centers, schools and other facilities.
Some therapists are self-employed and require a fee for services.
One principle that underlies music therapy practice is that music is healthy for people, and that music is a powerful treatment tool that can improve the quality of life for persons with disabilities. Partnerships between the music therapy community and the music products industry will inevitably expand the market for music products for disabled and elderly persons, as well as create greater public understanding of the role music can play in wellness and preventive health care. This first-ever documentary was made possible by a NAMM matching grant, resulting from the contributions of music retailers and manufacturers, and music therapists. AMTA has promoted a vast amount of research exploring the benefits of music as treatment through publication of the Journal of Music Therapy, Music Therapy Perspectives, Music Therapy , and other resources. Technical assistance provided by AMTA has led to numerous studies being funded.