American Music Therapy Association, Inc. Information

Formed in 1998 as a result of a merger between the National Association for Music Therapy (founded in 1950) and the American Association for Music Therapy (founded in 1971), the American Music Therapy Association (AMTA) is a 501c3, non-profit organization whose mission is to advance public awareness of the benefits of music therapy and increase access to quality music therapy services in a rapidly changing world. Music therapy is the clinical and evidence-based use of music interventions to accomplish individualized goals for people of all ages and ability levels within a therapeutic relationship by a credentialed professional who has completed an approved music therapy program. AMTA is committed to the advancement of education, training, professional standards, credentialing, and research in support of the music therapy profession. AMTA currently serves approximately 3,500 diverse members consisting of clinicians, faculty, business owners, internship directors and supervisors, researchers and students. AMTA offers education, professional development, networking, and advocacy opportunities through an annual conference, academic journals, research efforts, government relations activities, social media and volunteer activities.