What is music therapy as defined by the CBMT?
Music therapy is defined as the clinical and evidence-based use of music interventions to accomplish
... [Show More] individualized goals for people of all ages and ability levels within a therapeutic relationship by a credentialed professional who has completed an approved music therapy program. A music therapist is an individual who has completed the education and clinical training requirements established by the American Music Therapy Association (AMTA) and who holds current board certification from The Certification Board for Music Therapists (CBMT).
What are the six assumptions of music therapy practice is based on the values of non-maleficence, beneficence, ethical practice; professional integrity, respect, excellence; and diversity?
Public Protection, Requisite Training and Skill Sets, Evidenced-Based Practice, Overlap in Services, Professional Collaboration, Client-Centered Care.
What is Public Protection?
The public is entitled to have access to qualified music therapists who practice competently, safely, and ethically
What is Requisite Training and Skill Sets?
The scope of music therapy practice includes professional and advanced competencies. The music therapist only provides services within the scope of practice that reflect his/her level of competence. The music therapy profession is not defined by a single music intervention or experience, but rather a continuum of skills sets (simple to complex) that make the profession unique.
What is Evidenced-Based Practice?
A music therapist's clinical practice is guided by the integration of the best available research evidence, the client's needs, values, and preferences, and the expertise of the clinician.
What is Overlap in Services?
Music therapists recognize that in order for clients to benefit from an integrated, holistic treatment approach, there will be some overlap in services provided by multiple professions. We acknowledge that other professionals may use music, as appropriate, as long as they are working within their scope.
What is Professional Collaboration?
A competent music therapist will make referrals to other providers (music therapists and non-music therapists) when faced with issues or situations beyond the original clinician's own practice competence, or where greater competence or specialty care is determined as necessary or helpful to the client's condition.
What is Client-Centered Care?
A music therapist is respectful of, and responsive to the needs, values, and preferences of the client and the family. The music therapist involves the client in the treatment planning process, when appropriate.
What types of interventions are included in the scope of practice?
The music therapy interventions may include music improvisation, receptive music listening, song writing, lyric discussion, music and imagery, singing, music performance, learning through music, music combined with other arts, music-assisted relaxation, music-based patient education, electronic music technology, adapted music intervention, and movement to music.
What does the standards of practice (as outlined in the scope of practice) say about referrals to a music therapist?
Can accept referrals for music therapy services from medical, developmental, mental health, and education professionals; family members; clients; caregivers; or others involved and authorized with provision of client services. Before providing music therapy services to a client for an identified clinical or developmental need, the music therapist collaborates, as applicable, with the primary care provider(s) to review the client's diagnosis, treatment needs, and treatment plan. During the provision of music therapy services to a client, the music therapist collaborates, as applicable, with the client's treatment team.
After treatment is indicated, what is the first step in providing music therapy services according to the standards of practice?
Conducting a music therapy assessment of a client to determine if treatment is indicated. If treatment is indicated, the music therapist collects systematic, comprehensive, and accurate information to determine the appropriateness and type of music therapy services to provide for the client. Assessment is conducted across multiple domains.
After assessment, what does the standards of practice list as the next step in music therapy practice?
Developing an individualized music therapy treatment plan for the client that is based upon the results of the music therapy assessment. The music therapy treatment plan includes individualized goals and objectives that focus on the assessed needs and strengths of the client and specify music therapy approaches and interventions to be used to address these goals and objectives.
After developing a treatment plan, what does the standards of practice list as the next step in the treatment process?
Implementing an individualized music therapy treatment plan that is consistent with any other developmental, rehabilitative, habilitative, medical, mental health, preventive, wellness care, or educational services being provided to the client.
After implementing treatment, what is listed as the next step according to the standards of practice?
Evaluating the client's response to music therapy and the music therapy treatment plan, documenting change and progress, and suggesting modifications, as appropriate.
After the implementation of the treatment phase, what type of action is required when terminating services?
Developing a plan for determining when the provision of music therapy services is no longer needed in collaboration with the client, physician, or other provider of health care or education of the client, family members of the client, and any other appropriate person upon whom the client relies for support.
During treatment, what is required of the therapist in ensuring the opportunity for the most successful outcomes for the client?
Minimizing any barriers to ensure that the client receives music therapy services in the least restrictive environment. Collaborating with and educating the client and the family, caregiver of the client, or any other appropriate person regarding the needs of the client that are being addressed in music therapy and the manner in which the music therapy treatment addresses those needs.
As the therapist, what is listed under the standards of practice as your responsibility in providing all music therapy services?
Utilizing appropriate knowledge and skills to inform practice including use of research, reasoning, and problem solving skills to determine appropriate actions in the context of each specific clinical setting
According to the scope of practice, music therapists function as independent clinicians on an interdisciplinary treatment team. What other professionals can a music therapist expect to work with?
Physicians, nurses, rehabilitative specialists, neurologists, psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, counselors, behavioral health specialists, physical therapists, occupational therapists, speech-language pathologists, audiologists, educators, clinical case managers, patients, caregivers, and more
How does a music therapist minimize the potential for negative outcomes in providing services?
Music therapists are trained to independently analyze client non-verbal, verbal, psychological, and physiological responses to music and non-music stimuli in order to be clinically effective and refrain from contra-indicated practices. The music therapist implements ongoing evaluation of client responses and adapts the intervention accordingly to protect the client from negative outcomes.
To protect the public from threats of harm in clinical practice, music therapists comply with safety standards and competencies such as, but not limited to:
• Recognize and respond to situations in which there are clear and present dangers to a client and/or others.
• Recognize the potential harm of music experiences and use them with care.
• Recognize the potential harm of verbal and physical interventions during music experiences and use them with care.
• Observe infection control protocols (e.g., universal precautions, disinfecting instruments).
• Recognize the client populations and health conditions for which music experiences are contraindicated.
• Comply with safety protocols with regard to transport and physical support of clients.
What is the purpose of AMTA?
As the governing body of the profession, its 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 strives to improve and advance the use of music, in both its breadth and quality, in clinical, educational, and community settings for the betterment of the public health and welfare.
What are the four main commitments made by the AMTA?
• Promoting quality clinical treatment and ethical practices regarding the use of music to restore, maintain, and improve the health of all persons.
• Establishing and maintaining education and clinical training standards for persons seeking to be credentialed music therapists.
• Educating the public about music therapy.
• Supporting music therapy research.
What is the CBMT?
CBMT is an independent, non-profit, certifying agency fully accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA). This accreditation serves as the means by which CBMT strives to maintain the highest standards possible in the construction and administration of its national examination and recertification programs, ultimately designed to reflect current music therapy practice for the benefit of the consumer.
What are the CBMT commitments?
• Maintaining the highest possible standards, as established by the Institute for Credentialing Excellence (ICE) and NCCA, for its national certification and recertification programs.
• Maintaining standards for eligibility to sit for the National Examination: Candidates must have completed academic and clinical training requirements established by AMTA.
• Defining and assessing the body of knowledge that represents safe and competent practice in the profession of music therapy and issuing the credential of Music Therapist Board Certified (MT-BC) to individuals that demonstrate the required level of competence.
• Advocating for recognition of the MT-BC credential and for access to safe and competent practice.
• Maintaining certification and recertification requirements that reflect current practice in the profession of music therapy.
• Providing leadership in music therapy credentialing.
What are the educational and clinical requirements of a music therapist?
• Must have graduated with a bachelor's degree (or its equivalent) or higher from a music therapy degree program approved by the American Music Therapy Association (AMTA); and
• Must have successfully completed a minimum of 1,200 hours of supervised clinical work through pre-internship training at the AMTA-approved degree program, and internship training through AMTA-approved National Roster or University Affiliated internship programs, or an equivalent.
What are the requirements for board certification?
The MT-BC credential is granted by the CBMT to music therapists who have completed academic and clinical training, have demonstrated the knowledge, skills, and abilities for competence in the current practice of music therapy. The purpose of board certification in music therapy is to provide an objective national standard that can be used as a measure of professionalism and competence by interested agencies, groups, and individuals.
How often do you need to re-certify through the CBMT?
Once board certified, a music therapist must adhere to the CBMT Code of Professional Practice and re-certify every five years through either a program of continuing education or re-examination.
How many continuing education credits are needed to complete the re-certification?
100 credits
To whom does the Code of Ethics apply?
The Code of Ethics is applicable to all those holding the MT-BC credential or a professional designation of the National Music Therapy Registry and professional membership in the American Music Therapy Association. This Code is also applicable to music therapy students and interns under clinical supervision.
What does the Code of Ethics state about professional competence and responsibilities?
1.1 The MT will perform only those duties for which he/she has been adequately trained, not engaging outside his/her area of competence.
1.2 The MT will state his/her qualifications, titles, and professional affiliation(s) accurately.
1.3 The MT will participate in continuing education activities to maintain and improve his/her knowledge and skills.
1.4 The MT will assist the public in identifying competent and qualified music therapists and will discourage the misuse and incompetent practice of music therapy.
1.5 The MT is aware of personal limitations, problems, and values that might interfere with his/her professional work and, at an early stage, will take whatever action is necessary (i.e., seeking professional help, limiting or discontinuing work with clients, etc.) to ensure that services to clients are not affected by these limitations and problems.
1.6 The MT respects the rights of others to hold values, attitudes, and opinions that differ from his/her own.
1.7 The MT does not engage in sexual harassment.
1.8 The MT accords sexual harassment grievants and respondents dignity and respect, and does not base decisions solely upon their having made, or having been the subject of, sexual harassment charges.
1.9 The MT practices with integrity, honesty, fairness, and respect for others.
1.10 The MT delegates to his/her employees, students, or co-workers only those responsibilities that such persons can reasonably be expected to perform competently on the basis of their training and experience. The MT takes reasonable steps to see that such persons perform services competently; and, if
institutional policies prevent fulfillment of this obligation, the MT attempts to correct the situation to the extent feasible.
What does the Code of Ethics say about general standards?
2.1 The MT will strive for the highest standards in his/her work, offering the highest quality of services to clients/students.
2.2 The MT will use procedures that conform with his/her interpretation of the Standards of Clinical Practice of the American Music Therapy Association, Inc.
2.3 Moral and Legal Standards
2.3.1 The MT respects the social and moral expectations of the community in which he/she works. The MT is aware that standards of behavior are a personal matter as they are for other citizens, except as they may concern the fulfillment of professional duties or influence the public attitude and trust towards the profession.
2.3.2 The MT refuses to participate in activities that are illegal or inhumane, that violate the civil rights of others, or that discriminate against individuals based upon race, ethnicity, language, religion, marital status, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, ability, socioeconomic status, or political affiliation. In addition, the MT works to eliminate the effect of biases based on these factors on his or her work.
What are the ethical considerations for relationships with clients, students, and research participants?
3.1 The welfare of the client will be of utmost importance to the MT.
3.2 The MT will protect the rights of the individuals with whom he/she works. These rights will include, but are not limited to the following:
• - right to safety;
• - right to dignity;
• - legal and civil rights;
• - right to treatment;
• - right to self-determination;
• - right to respect; and
• - right to participate in treatment decisions.
3.3 The MT will not discriminate in relationships with clients/students/research subjects because of race, ethnicity, language, religion, marital status, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, ability, socioeconomic status or political affiliation.
3.4 The MT will not exploit clients/students/research subjects sexually, physically, financially or emotionally.
3.5 The MT will not enter into dual relationships with clients/students/research subjects and will avoid those situations that interfere with professional judgment or objectivity (e.g., those involving competitive and/or conflicting interests) in their relationships.
3.6 The MT will exert caution in predicting the results of services offered, although a reasonable statement of prognosis and/or progress may be made. The MT will make only those claims to clients concerning the efficacy of services that would be willingly submitted for professional scrutiny through peer review, publication in a professional journal, or documentation in the client's record.
3.7 The MT will offer music therapy services only in the context of a professional relationship and in a setting which insures safety and protection for both client and therapist. The MT will avoid deception in representations of music therapy to the public.
3.8 The MT will inform the client and/or guardian as to the purpose, nature, and effects of assessment and treatment.
3.9 The MT will use every available resource to serve the client best.
3.10 The MT will utilize the profession's Standards of Practice as a guideline in accepting or declining referrals or requests for services, as well as in terminating or referring clients when the client no longer benefits from the therapeutic relationship.
3.11 In those emerging areas of practice for which generally recognized standards are not yet defined, the MT will nevertheless utilize cautious judgment and will take reasonable steps to ensure the competence of his/her work, as well as to protect clients, students, and research subjects from harm.
What does the Code of Ethics state about confidentiality practices?
3.12.1 The MT protects the confidentiality of information obtained in the course of practice, supervision, teaching, and/or research.
3.12.2 In compliance with federal, state and local regulations and organizational policies and procedures, confidential information may be revealed under circumstances which include but are not limited to:
a. when, under careful deliberation, it is decided that society, the client, or other individuals appear to be in imminent danger. In this situation, information may be shared only with the appropriate authorities, professionals or others. The client is made aware of this when possible and if reasonable.
b. when other professionals within a facility or agency are directly related with the case or situation.
c. when the client consents to the releasing of confidential information.
d. when compelled by a court or administrative order or subpoena, provided such order or subpoena is valid and served in accordance with applicable law.
3.12.3 The MT informs clients of the limits of confidentiality prior to beginning treatment.
3.12.4 The MT disguises the identity of the client in the presentation of case materials for research and teaching. Client or guardian consent is obtained, with full disclosure of the intended use of the material.
3.12.5 All forms of individually identifiable client information, including, but not limited to verbal, written, audio, video and digital will be acquired with the informed client or guardian consent and will be maintained in a confidential manner by the MT. Also, adequate security will be exercised in the preservation and ultimate disposition of these records.
3.12.6 Information obtained in the course of evaluating services, consulting, supervision, peer review, and quality assurance procedures will be kept confidential.
What does the Code of Ethics state about relationships with other colleagues?
4.1 The MT acts with integrity in regard to colleagues in music therapy and other professions and will cooperate with them whenever appropriate.
4.2 The MT will not offer professional services to a person receiving music therapy from another music therapist except by agreement with that therapist or after termination of the client's relationship with that therapist.
4.3 The MT will attempt to establish harmonious relations with members from other professions and professional organizations and will not damage the professional reputation or practice of others.
4.4 The MT will share with other members of the treatment team information concerning evaluative and therapeutic goals and procedures used.
4.5 The MT will not discriminate in relationships with colleagues because of race, ethnicity, language, religion, marital status, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, ability, socioeconomic status or political affiliation.
What are the practices as set by the Code of Ethics concerning relationships is employers?
5.1 The MT will observe the regulations, policies, and procedures of employers with the exception of those that are in violation of this code of ethics.
5.2 The MT will inform employers of conditions that may limit the effectiveness of the services being rendered.
5.3 When representing the employer or agency, the MT will differentiate personal views from those of the profession, the employer, and the agency.
5.4 The MT will provide services in an ethical manner and will protect the property, integrity, and reputation of the employing agency.
5.5 The MT will utilize the agency's facilities and resources only as authorized.
5.6 The MT will not use his/her position to obtain clients for private practice, unless authorized to do so by the employing agency.
Does a music therapist have responsibility to the community and general public according to the Code of Ethics?
Yes. 6.1 The MT will strive to increase public awareness of music therapy.
6.2 The MT engaged in a private practice or business will abide by federal, state and local regulations relevant to self-employment including but not limited to professional liability, registering and maintaining a business, tax codes and liability, confidentiality and reimbursement.
Is there a responsibility to professional associations according to the Code of Ethics?
Yes. 7.1 The MT respects the rights, rules, and reputation of his/her professional association.
7.2 The MT will distinguish personal from professional views when acting on behalf of his/her association. The MT will represent the association only with appropriate authorization.
7.3 The MT will strive to increase the level of knowledge, skills, and research within the profession.
7.4 The MT will refrain from the misuse of an official position within the association.
7.5 The MT will exercise integrity and confidentiality when carrying out his/her official duties in the association.
What are the ethical considerations for research according to the Code of Ethics?
8.1 The MT establishes a precise agreement with research subjects prior to their participation in the study. In this agreement, the responsibilities and rights of all parties are explained, and written consent is obtained. The MT explains all aspects of the research that might influence the subject's willingness to participate, including all possible risks and benefits. The MT will avoid any deception in research.
8.2 Participation of subjects in music therapy research will be voluntary. Appropriate authorization will be obtained from the subjects involved (or specified and/or legal guardians) and the facility. The subject is free to refuse to participate or to withdraw from the research at any time without penalty or loss of services.
8.3 The MT is ultimately responsible for protecting the welfare of the research subjects, both during and after the study, in the event of aftereffects, and will take all precautions to avoid injurious psychological, physical, or social effects to the subjects.
8.4 The MT will store data in a secure location accessible to the researcher. The researcher will determine a set period of time after completion of the study by which all research data must be shredded or erased.
8.5 The MT will be competent in his/her research efforts, being cognizant of his/her limits.
8.6 The MT will present his/her findings without distortion and in a manner that will not be misleading.
What are the ethical considerations concerning publication credits?
8.7.1 Credit is assigned only to those who have contributed to a publication, in proportion to their contribution.
8.7.2 Major contributions of a professional nature made by several persons to a common project will be recognized by joint authorship.
8.7.3 Minor contributions such as editing or advising, will be recognized in footnotes or in an introductory statement.
8.7.4 Acknowledgment through specific citations will be made for unpublished as well as published material that has directly influenced the research or writing.
8.7.5 The MT who compiles and edits for publication the contribution of others will publish the symposium or report under the title of the committee or symposium, with the therapist's name appearing as chairperson or editor among those of the other contributors or committee members.
What are the ethical considerations involving fees, business, and commercial activity for music therapists?
9.1 When participating in business arrangements as owners, stockholders, partners, employers, employees, contractors, or subcontractors, music therapists ensure that their activities are consistent with this Code and any applicable local, state, or federal laws.
9.2 The MT accepts remuneration only for services actually rendered by himself or herself or under his or her supervision and only in accordance with professional standards that safeguard the best interest of clients and the profession.
9.3 The MT will not take financial advantage of a client. The MT will take into account the client's ability to pay. Financial considerations are secondary to the client's welfare.
9.4 Private fees may not be accepted or charged for services when the MT receives remuneration for these services by the agency.
9.5 No gratuities, gifts or favors should be accepted from clients that could interfere with the MT's decisions or judgments.
9.6 Referral sources may not receive a commission fee, or privilege for making referrals (fee-splitting).
9.7 The MT will not engage in commercial activities that conflict with responsibilities to clients or colleagues.
9.8 The materials or products dispensed to clients should be in the client's best interest, with the client's having the freedom of choice. The MT will not profit from the sale of equipment/materials to clients. Charges for any materials will be separate from the bill for services.
What does the Code of Ethics state about announcing music therapy services?
10.1 The MT will adhere to professional rather than commercial standards in making known his or her availability for professional services. The MT will offer music therapy services only in a manner that neither discredits the profession nor decreases the trust of the public in the profession.
10.2 The MT will not solicit clients of other MT's.
10.3 The MT will make every effort to ensure that public information materials are accurate and complete in reference to professional services and facilities.
10.4 The MT will avoid the following in announcing services: misleading or deceptive advertising, misrepresentation of specialty, guarantees or false expectations, and the use of the Association's logo.
10.5 The MT will differentiate between private practice and private music studio in announcing services.
10.6 The following materials may be used in announcing services (all of which must be dignified in appearance and content): announcement cards, brochures, letterhead, business cards and the internet. The MT may include the following on these materials: name, title, degrees, schools, dates, certification, location, hours, contact information, and an indication of the nature of the services offered.
10.7 Announcing services through the mail (to other professionals), a listing in the telephone directory, or the internet (i.e., email, website) are acceptable. No advertisement or announcement will be rendered in a manner that will be untruthful and/or deceive the public. [Show Less]