#Understanding MT-BC: Your Path to Board Certification in Music Therapy

Becoming a Board-Certified Music Therapist (MT-BC) is a significant milestone for professionals dedicated to transforming lives through music therapy. The MT-BC credential represents a commitment to excellence, advanced learning, and evidence-based practices that enhance patient outcomes. Here’s a closer look at what board certification entails and how the Certification Board for Music Therapists (CBMT) supports you on this journey.

What Does MT-BC Mean?

The MT-BC designation signifies that a music therapist has met rigorous standards of competency and professionalism. It assures the public and employers that certificants are equipped to deliver high-quality, evidence-based therapeutic interventions. Board certification not only validates your expertise but also highlights your dedication to improving lives through music therapy.

The CBMT’s Mission

At the Certification Board for Music Therapists (CBMT), the core mission is to uphold an objective standard that ensures all certificants are prepared to practice at the highest level. By establishing clear standards for professional practice, CBMT helps protect the public while promoting the credibility and impact of music therapy as a profession.

The Certification Exam: What to Expect

The MT-BC certification process centers around a comprehensive, computerized multiple-choice exam consisting of 150 questions. Developed by a diverse committee of experienced music therapists, the exam is grounded in the Board Certification Domains, which are derived from a national Practice Analysis Study. These domains define the essential knowledge and skills required for competent practice, ensuring that the exam reflects real-world professional demands.

The exam covers the full scope of music therapy practice, testing your ability to apply evidence-based techniques in diverse therapeutic settings. By passing this exam, you demonstrate your readiness to uphold the profession’s standards and make a meaningful impact.

Support for Your Journey

CBMT is committed to your success from the moment you begin preparing for the exam and throughout your career as a board-certified music therapist. The Candidate Handbook is a key resource, offering detailed guidance on exam preparation, content, and the certification process. Whether you’re studying the Board Certification Domains or seeking tips for test day, CBMT provides the tools and encouragement you need to achieve your MT-BC credential.

Why It Matters

Earning your MT-BC is more than a professional achievement—it’s a commitment to excellence and a promise to deliver transformative care. Board certification sets you apart as a trusted practitioner, ready to make a difference in the lives of your clients. With CBMT’s support, you’re never alone on this path.

Ready to take the next step? Explore the Candidate Handbook and start your journey to becoming a board-certified music therapist today!

How to Apply for the MT-BC Examination: A Step-by-Step Guide

Pursuing Board Certification in Music Therapy (MT-BC) is a key step for music therapists aiming to demonstrate their expertise and commitment to the profession. The Certification Board for Music Therapists (CBMT) outlines clear requirements and a straightforward application process to help you achieve this credential. Here’s what you need to know to prepare and apply for the MT-BC examination.

Eligibility Requirements

To sit for the MT-BC examination, candidates must complete the academic and clinical training requirements for music therapy, as established by the American Music Therapy Association (AMTA), or their equivalent. These requirements must be fully met by the scheduled examination date. If you’re taking the exam for state licensure, contact the CBMT office or visit the CBMT website for specific state licensure guidance.

Application Process

The CBMT Examination is a computer-based test administered at approximately 300 PSI Test Centers across the United States and internationally. There are no application deadlines, allowing eligible candidates to apply at any time. Follow these steps to apply:

1. Create an Account: Visit www.cbmt.org, log in, and create a CBMT account.
2. Submit the Exam Application: Access the Exam Application on the CBMT website, complete it, and submit it for review.
3. Provide Documentation: Gather and submit the required documentation listed on page 4 of the CBMT guidelines and the Instructions page of the Exam Application.
4. Pay the Examination Fee: Once all documentation is received, log in to your CBMT account to pay the examination fee.
5. Schedule Your Exam: After the fee is processed, you’ll receive an email within approximately 5 business days with instructions to schedule your exam with PSI. Your Exam Application will include an Exam Authorization page with your Exam Scheduling ID# and a 90-day eligibility period to book your test.

Important Notes

• Verification: CBMT reserves the right to verify all information provided in your application.
• Scheduling Deadline: You must schedule your exam within the 90-day eligibility period. Failure to do so will result in forfeiture of your application and fees, requiring a new application and payment to reapply.
• State Licensure: If the exam is for state licensure, check with the CBMT office or website for additional requirements.

Start Your Journey

The MT-BC examination is your opportunity to showcase your skills and dedication as a music therapist. With a clear application process and support from CBMT, you’re well-equipped to take this important step. Visit www.cbmt.org to begin your application and move closer to earning your board certification!

MT-BC Exam: Required Documentation for Eligibility

Preparing to take the Music Therapy Board Certification Examination (MT-BC)? The Certification Board for Music Therapists (CBMT) requires specific documentation to verify your eligibility, depending on your pathway to certification. Whether you’re a new applicant, pursuing an equivalency degree, following the alternate route, or re-entering after expired certification, this guide outlines the documents you need to submit to ensure a smooth application process.

New Applicants

For those who have completed a music therapy program, the following documents are required:

1. Official Transcript of Music Therapy Coursework:
   • Submit an official transcript (copies are not accepted).
   • Have paper transcripts mailed to the CBMT office (address listed on page 2 of the CBMT guidelines) or electronic transcripts emailed to Karen Howat at KH@CBMT.org.
   • The transcript must show the internship course, but it does not need to include the degree awarded or final internship grade.
   • If the degree conferral is not shown, CBMT will contact your Program Director to confirm completion of all requirements.
2. Internship Completion Confirmation:
   • Provide a letter or email from your internship site verifying the date you successfully completed your internship.

Equivalency Degree/Certificate

If you earned a music therapy equivalency from an AMTA-approved program, submit:

• All documents listed for new applicants (official transcript and internship confirmation).
• If your undergraduate degree is not listed on your music therapy transcript, include a copy of your undergraduate transcript showing your name, school name, and degree conferral date. This can be scanned and emailed to CBMT and does not need to be official.

Music Therapy Association’s Alternate Route/Track

For candidates who completed the alternate route/track:

• Submit a copy of the original letter from the Music Therapy Association verifying that you have met the qualifications for the alternate route/track.

Re-Entry Applicants (Expired Certification)

If you were previously board-certified and your certification has expired, follow these steps:

1. Submit an Exam Application:
   • Log in to www.cbmt.org, create an account, and submit an Exam Application.
   • Include your last board certification number and the date your certification expired.
   • If your name has changed, upload a name change document.
2. Pay the Examination Fee:
   • After your application is reviewed, log in to your CBMT account to pay the fee.
3. Schedule Your Exam:
   • Within approximately 5 business days of fee processing, you’ll receive an email with instructions to schedule your exam with PSI. Your Exam Application will include an Exam Authorization page with your Exam Scheduling ID# and a 90-day eligibility period to book your test.

Important Note

CBMT does not accept evidence of another credential as proof of eligibility. Ensure you provide the exact documentation outlined for your pathway.

Get Started

Submitting the correct documentation is crucial for a successful MT-BC exam application. Review the requirements carefully and visit www.cbmt.org to begin your application. With the right preparation, you’re one step closer to earning or renewing your board certification!