r/musictherapy

Repetition in music can sometimes do more than teach a skill — it can create comfort.

For some children with special needs, hearing the same beat, lyric, or melody again and again isn’t boredom. It can feel safe, familiar, and easier to process.

Repetition can reduce uncertainty. When a child knows what comes next, it may lower anxiety and make engagement feel more natural.

I’ve noticed that sometimes progress doesn’t start with something new. It starts with something familiar enough that the child feels ready to stay present.

Music doesn’t always need variety to be meaningful. Sometimes the repeated part is exactly what helps connection happen.

Hi, I have a question about a worst case scenario, which I hope will not happen, but may be a possibility.

I have a situation where I have felt targeted to leave my program for the last two years (e.g. being graded lower than classmates for similar work, being offered a scholarship then it being retracted after professor was involved, rules being selectively enforced with me but not classmates, and being held to higher standards than classmates).

I am two years into my three years in an equivalency program. I am doing well in my practicums and have formed strong connections with my supervisors, so my professors' treatment of me seems beyond necessary professional gatekeeping, as I and my supervisors have faith in my ability to do good for the field.

I study music therapy a public university that receives federal funding, so potential discrimination has to be taken seriously. I have a case open in my school's equity department, but am hesitant to move forward into an investigation, which would alert and involve my professors. I am worried about retaliation through failing grades, which they have subjectively argued in the past, or if not that, then through saying I'm not ready and refusing to send this letter at the end.

Does AMTA have any statements about a situation like this, or do any professionals have other thoughts on this? Barring any further craziness, I would be on track to begin applying and requesting letters starting next month. I hope nothing like this happens, but I really appreciate any perspectives from professionals on this matter.

I am a PreK music educator and half of my classes are with 3-4 yr olds with disabilities, and while I do ok, I feel like there is a gap between my knowledge and what I could be doing with these students.

I know music therapy is a protected profession and I do not intend to practice as, or claim to be, a music therapist. But are there any resources that might be available for educators to read over a summer to get ideas for goals, activities, and so forth?

Though we touch on it a little in our ed degree program, we have to learn to teach a wide range of musical topics and age ranges. Settling into my job now I’d love to dig in more on this specific population I work with.

Thanks all, any help appreciated

Hi all! I’ve been getting some conflicting answers about whether or not Canadian Music Therapists are required to charge GST for our services. A CRA helpline operator and my accountant said I should not, as I am providing therapeutic services and carry the appropriate certifications. Anybody else not charge GST/HST?