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Entry Level Music Therapist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Partner with BCBAs and experts in speech-language therapy, music therapy, occupational therapy, and physical therapy as well as counselors, pediatricians, neurologists, and nurse practitioners. Your ...

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Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) certification Preferred Qualifications * Entry-level ... We are starting a new program in Music, Art, Play, Darma, Group, Family therapy, counseling, and ...

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Entry Level Music Therapist information

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$14

$27

$47

How much do entry level music therapist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level music therapist in the United States is $27.35, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.36 and $31.01 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level music therapist?

Entry level music therapists are professionals who use music to address physical, emotional, cognitive, and social needs of individuals, typically under supervision as they begin their careers. They assess clients’ needs, plan and implement music-based interventions, and evaluate client progress. Entry level roles often involve working in hospitals, schools, rehabilitation centers, or community agencies. These therapists have completed a bachelor’s degree in music therapy and an internship, and may be preparing for board certification. Their work helps clients improve communication, manage stress, and enhance their overall well-being.

How to start a career in entry level music therapy?

To start a career as an entry-level music therapist, obtain a bachelor's degree in music therapy or a related field, complete supervised clinical internships, and earn certification from the Certification Board for Music Therapists (CBMT). Developing strong musical skills, understanding therapeutic techniques, and gaining experience working with diverse populations are also important steps.

What is the difference between Entry Level Music Therapist vs Certified Music Therapist?

AspectEntry Level Music TherapistCertified Music Therapist
CredentialsTypically holds a bachelor's degree in music therapy; may have supervised clinical hoursHolds a bachelor's degree, completed required clinical hours, and has passed the Certification Board for Music Therapists (CBMT) exam
Work EnvironmentEntry-level positions in hospitals, schools, or clinics under supervisionLicensed or certified professionals working independently or in specialized settings
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by healthcare facilities, schools, and therapy centers for entry-level rolesRecognized credential for professional practice and advancement in the industry

In summary, an Entry Level Music Therapist is an individual starting their career with basic qualifications, often working under supervision. A Certified Music Therapist has completed certification requirements, demonstrating a higher level of expertise and independence in the field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level music therapist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Music Therapist, you need a bachelor's degree in music therapy, proficiency in at least one musical instrument, and board certification (MT-BC). Familiarity with assessment tools, therapeutic protocols, and documentation systems is typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, empathy, and creativity help build rapport with clients and tailor interventions to individual needs. These competencies are vital to deliver effective, evidence-based music therapy that promotes client well-being and therapeutic progress.

What kinds of clients and settings can an entry level music therapist expect to work with, and how does this impact day-to-day responsibilities?

As an entry level music therapist, you may work with a diverse range of clients, including children with developmental disabilities, older adults in assisted living, or individuals in mental health facilities. This variety means your daily responsibilities can include conducting individual or group sessions, developing treatment plans, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams such as occupational therapists or counselors. The specific setting—such as hospitals, schools, or community centers—will shape the types of interventions you use and the structure of your workday. Flexibility and strong communication skills are essential, as you’ll often adapt your approach based on client needs and environment.
More about Entry Level Music Therapist jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Music Therapist jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Music Therapist job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Music Therapist jobs? The most popular types of Music Therapist jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Music Therapist jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Music Therapist jobs include:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Music Therapist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 33% As Needed, and 67% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $56,893 per year, or $27.4 per hour.

Entry Level Play Based Behavior Therapist

Cortica - Neurodevelopmental

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$20.87 - $28/hr

Part-time

Retirement

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Cortica is looking for dedicated, compassionate Behavioral Interventionists to join our growing team and help us design and deliver life-changing care for children with neurodevelopmental differences. At Cortica, we don't just offer jobs; we offer careers with purpose, growth, and support. 

What We Offer: 
 

  • Pay Range: $20.87-$28.00 per hour, based on experience and education.  
  • Thoughtfully Designed Schedules: We offer a predictable schedule with a single, direct rate of pay, including: 

    • Part-time roles with flexible 5-, 3- or 2-day-per-week options. 

    • Opportunities to pick up additional hours on Saturdays  

  • Fully Paid Training & Certification: Kickstart your career with Cortica with a comprehensive 3-week, in-person orientation that includes hands-on training, a Board-Certified Autism Technician (BCAT) exam review, and full coverage of your exam fees. We're invested in your success from day one. 
  • Referral Bonus: Earn between $250-$500 for successful referrals. 
  • Cell Phone Stipend: Stay connected with support from us. 
  • Paid Drive Time and Mileage Reimbursement: We value your time on the road and include toll reimbursement in select areas. 
  • 401(k) with Company Matching: Secure your future with our generous plan. 
  • Ongoing Professional Development: Access continuous training through in-person and online opportunities. 
  • Supportive Environment: Collaborate with and receive expert coaching from Lead BTs, ABA Assistant Supervisors, and ABA Supervisors who champion your growth. 
  • Career Advancement: Opportunities to grow your career by advancing to a BCBA role, ascending the Behavior Technician Clinical Ladder, or serving in a corporate support role.  
  • Learn from Experts in Other Fields: Partner with BCBAs and experts in speech-language therapy, music therapy, occupational therapy, and physical therapy as well as counselors, pediatricians, neurologists, and nurse practitioners. 

Your Impact & Responsibilities: 
 

  • Provide 1:1 and group behavior-analytic services to children with autism and other neurodevelopmental differences. 
  • Implement positive behavior strategies developed with your BCBA. 
  • Use evidence-based practices to create meaningful progress for families. 
  • Document session data to track and support treatment goals. 
  • Collaborate closely with families and supervisors to build supportive environments. 
  • Follow Cortica's crisis protocols, including de-escalation and mandated reporting. 

Who We're Looking For:  
 

  • Experience working with children (experience with autism is a plus!). 
  • High School or equivalent, bachelor's or master's degree. 
  • Willingness to obtain your BCAT credential within 90 days of your start date (We provide all training!). 
  • Ability to consistently travel between client sites within a 30-40-minute radius using reliable transportation. 
  • Tech-savvy with EMR systems and Microsoft Office tools. 

Our Inclusive Culture:  
 

  • Transdisciplinary Approach: Collaborate with experts in various fields to care for the whole child. 
  • Collaborative Process: Develop individualized care plans alongside families and clinicians. 
  • Strength-Based, Neurodiversity-Affirming Model: Focus on building on each child's unique strengths rather than emphasizing deficits. 

Join Cortica's team and make a meaningful impact by applying a strength-based, neurodiversity-affirming ABA therapy model. Help children recognize and build on their unique abilities, fostering positive relationships and skills that translate across home, school, and community settings. Be part of a progressive approach that combines neuroscience and developmental models to empower each child to thrive. 

Ready to make a difference? Apply today! 

Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE). For more details, visit the full job description here. 
 

Behavioral Health Center of Excellence (BHCOE) Accredited 2024 | America's Greatest Midsize Workplaces 2025 Newsweek | Great Place to Work Certified 2025 | Glassdoor 4.3 Rating 2025 | Indeed 4.1 Rating 2025 

Privacy Notice 
HYPERLINK "https://corticacare.com/privacy-policy"Cortica is committed to protecting your personal information in compliance with applicable federal and state laws. Please review our Privacy Notice to understand how your data is collected, used, and protected. 

Fair Chance Ordinance Compliance 
Cortica is committed to fair hiring practices. Qualified candidates with criminal histories and/or driving violations will be considered and are not automatically disqualified from employment, consistent with applicable federal law, the California Fair Chance Act, and local ordinances. 

Driving Requirement 
This position requires the successful completion of a post-offer background check and a motor vehicle report review. 

E-Verify Participation 
This employer participates in E-Verify. Click here to view the E-Verify Poster and your Right to Work. 
Este empleador participa en E-Verify. Este empleador participa en E-Verify. Haga clic aqui para ver el cartel de E-Verify y su derecho a trabajar. 


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