MT-BC FACT SHEET
Music Therapist – Board Certified, Music Therapy Credential
The credential Music Therapist – Board Certified (MT-BC) is granted by the Certification Board for Music Therapists (CBMT) to identify music therapists who have demonstrated the knowledge, skills and abilities necessary to practice music therapy at the current level of the profession. The purpose of board certification in music therapy is to provide an objective national standard that can be used as a measure of professionalism by interested agencies, groups, and individuals.
Quality in Music Therapy
The Certification Board for Music Therapists administers a written objective examination, based on a nationwide music therapy practice analysis that is regularly reviewed and updated to reflect current clinical practice. Both the practice analysis and the examination are developed using guidelines issued by the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, and the American Psychological Association’s standards for test validation. Once Board Certified, a Music Therapist must recertify every five years. The purpose of recertification is to encourage the MT-BC to maintain skills and to continue professional growth and development. The Board Certification program is accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA). NCCA approval signifies that in administrating the MT-BC Program, CBMT adheres to the established criteria and standards set by the Commission.
Commitment in Music Therapy
The Certification Board for Music Therapists is an autonomous certifying agency that grants recognition to music therapists who have met predetermined CBMT standards and who continue to engage in professional growth and development through the CBMT Recertification Program. Board Certification is voluntary, although it is required in some states for licensure, state certification or state registries. Music Therapists who have elected to become certified demonstrate a special commitment to their profession and to the provision of quality services.
