Music Therapy is an established health profession in which music is used within a therapeutic relationship to address physical, emotional, cognitive, and social needs of individuals. After assessing the strengths and needs of each client, the qualified music therapist provides the indicated treatment including creating, singing, moving to, and/or listening to music. Through musical involvement in the therapeutic context, clients' abilities are strengthened and transferred to other areas of their lives. Music therapy also provides avenues for communication that can be helpful to those who find it difficult to express themselves in words. Research in music therapy supports its effectiveness in many areas such as: overall physical rehabilitation and facilitating movement, increasing people's motivation to become engaged in their treatment, providing emotional support for clients and their families, and providing an outlet for expression of feelings.

The American Music Therapy Association (AMTA) is a 501(c)3, non-profit organization whose mission is to advance public awareness of the benefits of music therapy and increase access to quality music therapy services in a rapidly changing world. AMTA is committed to the advancement of education, training, professional standards, credentialing, and research in support of the music therapy profession. AMTA currently serves approximately 3,500 diverse members consisting of clinicians, faculty, business owners, internship directors and supervisors, researchers and students. AMTA offers education, professional development, networking, and advocacy opportunities through an annual conference, academic journals, research efforts, government relations activities, social media and volunteer activities.