About this Course

Originally released as part of the 2024 AMTA Symposium. This CMTE course on clinical musicianship delves into the diverse forms of songwriting in music therapy, reflecting the complex nature of the human condition. Throughout the presentation, we explore the salient considerations of different songwriting methodologies and cover numerous songwriting approaches. Designed for therapists serving diverse populations, the course offers many examples demonstrating the varied applications and effects of music therapy songwriting. The presentation is further enriched by guest appearances from accomplished songwriters who discuss their creative processes.
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Learning Objectives

w/ CBMT Board Certification Domains

  • Learning Objective #1: Participants will utilize culture-centered and humanistic music therapy approaches to inform clinical practice (CBMT Domain III. A. 4. c,f)

  • Learning Objective #2: Participants will achieve therapeutic goals, identifying and responding to significant (end-of-life) events (CBMT Domain III. A. 5. w)

Course Schedule

150 minutes. This is an asynchronous, online course. You can complete the course modules at your own pace and on your own schedule. Follow the instructions to complete the course evaluation and receive your CMTE certificate.

  • A. Introduction to Music Therapy Songwriting (10 min)

  • B. Overview of Standards and Approaches to Songwriting (20 min)

  • C. Songwriting Considerations (20 min)

  • D. Thinking Outside the Personalized Songwriting Box (20 min)

  • E. Legacy and Bereavement Songwriting (20 min)

  • F. Guest Speakers (20 min)

  • G. Participant Song Shares (20 min)

  • H. Round-Up (20 min)