Graduates of colleges or universities from one of 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 the 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, outpatient clinics, community mental health centers, drug and alcohol programs, half-way houses, rehabilitation facilities, medical hospitals, senior centers, schools, and other facilities.
Some therapists are self-employed and require a fee for services.
Also, there are music therapists who specialize in mental health and have additional training in advanced music therapy techniques and psychology. Music therapists who specialize in this area have private practices similar to psychotherapists. 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. Research data and clinical experiences attest to the viability of music therapy as treatment for a full range of mental illnesses.