Music Therapist
Music therapists use music and sound to help improve people's emotional well-being, relieve stress and build confidence.
Day-to-day tasks
As a music therapist you could:
- meet with clients of all ages, families and other professionals
- assess your client's needs, plan therapy goals and prepare for sessions
- use a variety of musical styles and instruments in client-led, group or individual therapy sessions
- monitor progress and have regular sessions with a senior music therapist
- write reports, make recommendations and keep confidential records
- clean and maintain instruments and order supplies
Skills and knowledge
You'll need:
- counselling skills including active listening and a non-judgemental approach
- knowledge of psychology
- knowledge of the fine arts
- sensitivity and understanding
- the ability to work well with others
- patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
- to be flexible and open to change
- the ability to understand people’s reactions
- to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device
Industry Qualifications
In order to be a music therapist, you’ll usually need a degree in a relevant subject and then go on to do post graduate study.