A music therapist uses music to help people heal and improve their mental and physical health. It is deeply relational work that requires a bachelor's degree and clinical training. Here is what the work involves, what it takes, and how to get in.
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Music therapists work with clients to address emotional, cognitive, and physical needs through music-based interventions. You listen actively to understand each person's goals, then design and lead therapeutic sessions using singing, playing instruments, songwriting, or music listening. You document progress, adjust treatment plans, and collaborate with other healthcare providers. The work requires you to think creatively, solve problems on the fly, and maintain strong relationships with clients and their families.
Core work activities
Career video courtesy of CareerOneStop.
Music Therapists earn a median of $77,930 a year, based on 2025 data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Pay rises with experience, specialty, and location.
The outlook is strong. Employment is projected to grow 12 percent from 2024 to 2034, much faster than average for all occupations, with about 4,100 openings a year.
Top skills
Knowledge areas
You will need a bachelor's degree, typically in music therapy or a related field. Your coursework covers music, psychology, therapy and counseling principles, and human development. Most programs include supervised clinical experience and internship hours. After completing your degree, you complete additional clinical training and certification requirements. The path typically takes four years of undergraduate study plus postgraduate clinical work. Talk with your school counselor about music therapy programs and their specific prerequisites.
The main route is a bachelor's degree followed by clinical training. Since program structures and timelines vary, Pathly can map the music therapist path that fits you with your counselor to map out the specific steps and schools that fit your goals.
Many music therapists must be licensed, and professional certifications can strengthen your resume.
Common certifications
Licensing is handled at the state level and the requirements vary, so check the licensing board in your state. Pathly shows your state's specific steps inside your roadmap.
You are drawn to helping others and building meaningful relationships. You think creatively and communicate well. You enjoy learning and reflecting on how to support people's wellbeing.
Reading about a career is the easy part. Turning it into a plan is where most students get stuck. Pathly takes you from curious to a clear next step, and gives your counselor the insight to champion you along the way.
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Last updated July 1, 2026.
Data sources. Career details from the O*NET 30.3 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under CC BY 4.0. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. Salary and outlook figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2025 wages; 2024–2034 projections), delivered via the CareerOneStop API. Certification, licensing, wage, and outlook data from CareerOneStop, sponsored by USDOL/ETA and the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED).