Lesley University’s Master’s program in Expressive Therapies: Music Therapy with a specialization in Mental Health Counseling equips students with the theoretical and practical knowledge needed to become an effective, qualified music therapist.
• Qualify for the Music Therapy-Board Certified (MT-BC) credential
• Qualify for the Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) credential in Massachusetts
• Graduate with a degree approved by the American Music Therapy Association
• Gain extensive and valuable clinical experience
• Learn from leaders in the fields of music therapy and expressive therapies
• Study full-time or part-time
The 60-credit Music Therapy program is ideal for musicians who wish to use music interventions to promote positive intrapersonal and interpersonal change with diverse populations. Music therapy is practiced in a variety of settings in the fields of mental health, rehabilitation, disease prevention, education, childcare, and geriatrics.
At Lesley University, Music Therapy students develop practical skills through self-reflection, collaboration with expert faculty and peers, and 1225 hours of field experience. Direct, supervised contact with clients from a range of populations is required so that you can leave the program fully prepared for professional practice.
View the program of study for the Master of Arts in Expressive Therapies: Music Therapy w/ a Specialization in Mental Health Counseling
Low-Residency Option
The M.A. in Music Therapy is now offered in a low-residency learning model.
Learn more.
Sample Course Descriptions
Theories in Music Therapy
3 credits
Course for clinical practice of music therapy. Theory, techniques, and research findings of music therapy and expressive therapy are explored and compared. Focuses on the experience, understanding, and application of group dynamics in the core seminar as well as other groups.
Theory and Practice of Group Work
3 credits
A group experience which familiarizes participants with the theory and practice of group dynamics in mental health counseling and music therapy. It fosters professional development by emphasizing self awareness in the counselor. Students also come to understand their interpersonal style as it aids and/or hinders effective group functioning and leadership style.
Music Therapy with Families
3 credits
This class will present family systems theory and explores music therapy techniques use in family therapy sessions. Music techniques include percussion improvisations and songs that objectify or influence family interactions, stimulate family stories, and engage members across generations. Students experience numerous family constellations and interventions through videos of family music therapy, case studies, role-plays, and family of origin work.
Faculty Spotlight
Robyn Flaum Cruz
Associate Professor of Expressive Therapies, PhD Program; Adjunct Dance/Movement Therapy Instructor
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Mariagnese Cattaneo
Professor Emerita, Expressive Therapies
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