Why is the ongoing learning and development of MT-BCs important?
In order to remain a music therapist, board-certified (MT-BC), the Certification Board for Music Therapists (CBMT) requires that board certification be renewed every five years. As stated on their website, this is to ensure “continuing competence and protecting the public.” MT-BCs are required to obtain 100 continuing education credits, relating to several different aspects of our practice including education, professional development, and professional service opportunities. MT-BCs are asked to maintain education by attending workshops, courses, conferences, presentations, supervising music therapy students, or completing independent learning, publications, or writings. Three of these 100 hours must be related to ethics.
So, we have these requirements – why? Why is it so important? That’s what our therapists shared their thoughts on.
“So we can adapt and evolve with the world and our clients as well.”
Continued learning enables therapists to adapt and evolve with the changing needs of the world and their clients. The field of music therapy, like all healthcare and therapeutic practices, is constantly changing with continuous advancements in methods and understanding.
“To prevent harm as much as possible.”
Staying informed helps MT-BCs provide the best possible care and support while minimizing the potential for harm. This adaptability is particularly important as the profession seeks to address the diverse needs of individuals from various cultural, social, and personal backgrounds in an ever-changing world.
“It’s important to make sure you’re up to date with your cultural backgrounds and knowing that there’s different things you need to learn every day. I tend to learn new things every day. I’m not always the best with my cultural experiences, so I’m happy to explore that a little bit more.”
Continued education and self-awareness ensure that music therapists remain culturally competent and sensitive. Recognizing and exploring one’s cultural limitations and biases opens opportunities for growth and connection. Learning about new cultural perspectives and experiences – whether on a daily or monthly basis – helps MT-BCs better understand and support their clients.
“It keeps the creative juices flowing. We want to be able to be innovative, otherwise we’re not going to be able to grow as a profession.”
Our world is constantly changing, and the needs of our clients are constantly changing. Being a music therapist means being prepared to adapt to these changes and adjust our treatment plans to address what our clients need in this moment, and in a way that is congruent with their wants within music therapy. Engaging in ongoing professional development keeps our creativity alive within the profession, especially when we share our ideas with other MT-BCs. Innovation and exploration fuel growth, ensuring that music therapy continues to evolve and thrive as an effective and meaningful discipline.
Learn more about MT-BC continuing education and recertification:
Certification Board for Music Therapists. 2025. Recertification. https://www.cbmt.org/certificants/recertification/.
