ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Music Therapy Jobs in Silver Spring, MD (NOW HIRING)

Jayne Anderson

Be Seen First

Direct Support Professional Caregiver

Severna Park, MD · On-site

$14 - $18/hr

Support engagement in activities such as music therapy, cardio drumming, bowling, shopping, and library visits * Manage wheelchair mobility * Maintain clear and effective communication * Monitor ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsMusic Therapy JobsMusic Therapy Jobs in Silver Spring, MD

Music Therapy information

See Silver Spring, MD salary details

$14

$28

$48

How much do music therapy jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for music therapy in Silver Spring, MD is $28.28, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.12 and $32.07 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Music Therapist, you need a strong background in music, psychology, and clinical therapy, typically supported by a bachelor’s or master’s degree in music therapy and board certification (MT-BC). Familiarity with instruments, music therapy assessment tools, and electronic record-keeping systems is essential. Compassion, creativity, and excellent interpersonal skills help build rapport and tailor interventions to individual client needs. These competencies are crucial for fostering therapeutic outcomes and enhancing client well-being through music-based interventions.

What qualifications do you need for music therapy?

Music therapists typically need a bachelor's degree in music therapy or a related field, along with supervised clinical training. Certification from the Certification Board for Music Therapists (CBMT) is often required to practice professionally. Some positions may also require a master's degree or additional state licensure depending on the region.

What can I do as a music therapist?

A music therapist uses music-based interventions to improve clients' emotional, cognitive, and physical well-being. They work in settings such as hospitals, schools, or mental health facilities, often collaborating with healthcare professionals and requiring certification or licensure. Their activities include creating individualized treatment plans, leading music sessions, and assessing patient progress.

Is a career in music therapy worth it?

A career in music therapy involves using music interventions to address clients' physical, emotional, and cognitive needs, often requiring a bachelor's or master's degree and certification. It can be rewarding for those interested in healthcare, psychology, and music, with job opportunities in hospitals, schools, and mental health settings. However, it may involve variable hours and the need for ongoing professional development.

What is music therapy?

Music therapy is a clinical and evidence-based use of music interventions to accomplish individualized goals within a therapeutic relationship by a credentialed professional. It can help improve mental health, emotional well-being, and physical health through activities such as listening to music, songwriting, or playing instruments. Music therapists work with people of all ages to address physical, emotional, cognitive, and social needs. This type of therapy is often used in hospitals, schools, rehabilitation centers, and nursing homes. The approach and techniques are tailored to each client's unique needs and preferences.

Where do music therapists get paid the most?

Music therapists tend to earn higher salaries in regions with a higher cost of living and greater demand for healthcare services, such as urban areas or states with well-funded healthcare systems. Salaries also increase with experience, advanced certifications, and working in specialized settings like hospitals or private practices.

What is the difference between Music Therapy vs Music Education?

AspectMusic TherapyMusic Education
CredentialsMusic Therapists often hold a degree in music therapy and may be credentialed (e.g., MT-BC)Music Educators typically have a degree in music education and teaching certification
Work EnvironmentHealthcare settings, hospitals, clinics, special educationSchools, community programs, private lessons
Industry UsageHealthcare and therapeutic servicesEducational and developmental settings
PurposeUse music to improve clients' mental, emotional, or physical healthTeach music skills and foster musical development

While both careers involve working with music, Music Therapy focuses on using music as a therapeutic tool to improve health outcomes, often requiring specialized credentials. Music Education centers on teaching music skills and knowledge, primarily in academic or community settings. The two fields share a foundation in music but serve different purposes and client needs.

What are some common challenges music therapists face when working with diverse client populations?

Music therapists often work with clients from various backgrounds and with a wide range of needs, which can present challenges such as adapting musical interventions to suit different cultural preferences, communication styles, and cognitive or physical abilities. Building trust and rapport may require extra sensitivity and flexibility, especially when clients have unique goals or complex medical histories. Continuous professional development and collaboration with other healthcare professionals are essential to effectively address these challenges and provide individualized, impactful care.

What are popular job titles related to Music Therapy jobs in Silver Spring, MD?

For Music Therapy jobs in Silver Spring, MD, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Music Therapy jobs in Silver Spring, MD look for?

The top searched job categories for Music Therapy jobs in Silver Spring, MD are:

What cities near Silver Spring, MD are hiring for Music Therapy jobs?

Cities near Silver Spring, MD with the most Music Therapy job openings:

Music Therapy jobs near you
Infographic showing various Music Therapy job openings in Silver Spring, MD as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% As Needed, 60% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 15% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,815 per year, or $28.3 per hour.

Music Therapist (MT-BC) & Activities Professional

Kensington Senior Living

Reston, VA • On-site

$25 - $32/hr

Other

Re-posted 19 days ago

Job description

Music Therapist & Activities Professional

Why Kensington Senior Living? Because Our Promise is to love and care for your family as we do our own…and this extends to our team members too!

Become part of a community that's driven by its unique core values: a Love for Seniors, Respect for Each Other, Passion for Excellence, and a Spirit to Serve. Partner with us to find your path, grow your purpose, and expect the unexpected: deeper connections, better opportunities, and a stronger sense of belonging.

Salary: $25-$32 Per Hour

Schedule: Full Time

About the Role:

The Music Therapist & Activities Professional plays a vital role in enhancing the emotional, cognitive, and social well-being of individuals through the therapeutic use of music and structured activities. This position involves designing and implementing personalized music therapy sessions and engaging activities that support clients' physical, mental, and emotional health goals. The professional collaborates closely with healthcare providers, caregivers, and families to create holistic care plans that integrate music therapy with other therapeutic interventions. By fostering a supportive and creative environment, the role aims to improve clients' quality of life, promote self-expression, and encourage social interaction. Ultimately, this position contributes to the overall therapeutic outcomes by using music and activities as tools for healing, rehabilitation, and personal growth.

Responsibilities:

  • Develop and conduct individualized and group music therapy sessions tailored to clients' needs and therapeutic goals.
  • Plan, organize, and facilitate a variety of recreational and therapeutic activities that complement music therapy interventions.
  • Assess clients' progress regularly and adjust therapy plans accordingly to maximize effectiveness and engagement.
  • Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams including healthcare professionals, social workers, and family members to ensure integrated care.
  • Maintain accurate documentation of therapy sessions, client progress, and activity outcomes in compliance with regulatory standards.
  • Educate clients and their families about the benefits of music therapy and encourage active participation in therapeutic activities.
  • Stay current with developments in music therapy techniques and best practices through ongoing professional development.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree in Music Therapy from an accredited program.
  • Certification as a Board-Certified Music Therapist (MT-BC).
  • Experience working with diverse populations including adults and seniors in clinical or community settings.
  • Strong knowledge of music therapy techniques, therapeutic activity planning, and client assessment methods.
  • Ability to maintain professional documentation and comply with healthcare regulations and ethical standards.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Master's degree in Music Therapy or related therapeutic disciplines.
  • Experience in a healthcare setting such as hospitals, rehabilitation centers, or long-term care facilities.
  • Additional certifications in recreational therapy or related therapeutic modalities.
  • Proficiency in multiple musical instruments and vocal techniques to enhance therapy sessions.
  • Experience working with populations such as individuals with developmental disabilities, mental health conditions, or neurological disorders.

Skills:

The required and preferred skills are applied daily to create meaningful and effective therapeutic experiences for clients. Strong interpersonal and communication skills enable the professional to build trust and rapport with clients and collaborate effectively with interdisciplinary teams. Musical proficiency and creativity are essential for designing engaging therapy sessions that meet diverse client needs. Organizational skills support the planning and documentation of therapy activities, ensuring compliance with clinical standards. Additionally, adaptability and empathy allow the therapist to respond sensitively to clients' evolving emotional and physical states, fostering a supportive environment conducive to healing and growth.

Apply