American Music Therapy Association

AMTA Official Definition of Music Therapy

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

Learn More:

• Additional Information and Quotes about Music Therapy
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Music Therapy with Specific Populations (AMTA Fact Sheets and Research Bibliographies)
• Learning about Music Therapy
• Personal Stories about Music Therapy 
• History of Music Therapy
• Music Therapy Around the World and on the Web
• Music Therapy in the Media