As time progresses, music therapy as a profession steadily grows in recognition, demand, and appreciation. This growth is due to advocacy from music therapists, parents, teachers, and others impacted by music therapy in their lives. However, even though music therapy grows in popularity, access to music therapy and a genuine, real understanding of music therapy is lacking. This is why advocacy is such an important part of the music therapy profession. Research shows that large national health organizations such as the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) are recognizing the effectiveness of music therapy in reducing pain, anxiety, and stress. Music therapy is reportedly increasing in hospital settings, hospice and palliative care, and mental health services. This has contributed to interest and acceptance of music therapy spreading (Bauer, 2025). This increase has exposed more families, educators, and healthcare providers to a more accurate representation of how music therapy works and its purpose.
Even though popularity and exposure of music therapy is rising, the availability of music therapy services is lagging behind. This is due to a multitude of factors including:
1) Recognition at the state policy level is not consistent. Some U.S. states require a license for music therapists to practice. However, not all do which can create issues in hiring and insurance reimbursement.
2) There are misconceptions about what music therapy is. Many facilities offer non-clinical music programs that are often mislabeled as music therapy, which gives an incorrect view of actual music therapy. Many credentialed music therapists are also mislabeled as “music teachers” or the “music person.”
3) There is a shortage of available music therapy positions in more rural areas.
4) Lack of funding and administrative support restricts availability as music therapy is
repeatedly deemed “less important.”
The solution for these barriers is advocacy for music therapy. Communicating and advocating for the profession to legislators can lead to policy changes and regulation of licensure and insurance coverage. Along with legislators, effective communication with decision makers such as hospital administrators, school districts, and community program directors can provide them with accurate and evidence-based information about music therapy goals and how it works. Clarifying the purpose of music therapy also allows for organizations to recognize the importance of funding music therapy positions and programs in the community. The integrity of the profession is also protected through advocacy as the credentials and certification requirements are established.
Music therapy is nowhere near a “new” phenomenon, with elements of the profession appearing throughout history. However, advocacy is still a necessary component of the job. Advocacy can be achieved through actions, but primarily through effective communication and evidence-based progress. Communication is more accessible now than ever with technology and every conversation, presentation, and social media post matters. Continuing to advocate for music therapy will hopefully one day make it more available and accessible for those that need it.
Sources:
Bauer, B. A. (2025). Music and health: What you need to know. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/music-and-health-what-you-need-to-know
Certification Board for Music Therapists. (n.d.). Advocacy. https://www.cbmt.org/about/advocacy/
Moore, K. S. (2015). Music therapy advocacy: Past, present, and future considerations. Music Therapy Perspectives, 33(1), 76–85. https://doi.org/10.1093/mtp/miu030
