The American Music Therapy Association describes music therapy as "an established healthcare profession that uses music to address physical, emotional, cognitive, and social needs of individuals of all ages. Music therapy improves the quality of life for persons who are well and meets the needs of children and adults with disabilities or illnesses. Music therapy interventions can be designed to promote wellness, manage stress, alleviate pain, express feelings, enhance memory, improve communication and promote physical rehabilitation."

Individuals who complete one of the approved college music therapy programs (including field placements and an intensive internship) are then eligible to sit for the national examination offered by the Certification Board for Music Therapists(CBMT). CBMT is the only organization to certify music therapists to practice nationally. Since 1986 it has been fully accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA).