Similar careers
Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.
A Music Therapist is a healthcare professional who uses music interventions to address physical, emotional, cognitive, and social needs of individuals. They develop music-based therapy programs to improve the health and well-being of their clients.
Education: Bachelor's degree
Years in related career: None
On-the-job training: None
Projected Growth: 12.2% (far above average)
Annual job openings: 4 100
Direct AI exposure: 17% of tasks
Potential AI exposure: 83% of tasks
| Income data is from Employment and Social Development Canada's 2025 wage tables. The closest match for this career in Canada’s occupational classification system is Therapists in Counselling and Related Specialized Therapies. According to the wage tables, average income is $71K per year. | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bottom 10% | Bottom 25% | Median (average) | Top 25% | Top 10% |
| $48K per year | $57K per year | $71K per year | $89K per year | $104K per year |
| Compared to other careers: Median is $5.72K above the national average. | ||||
Music Therapists work in various settings including hospitals, schools, rehabilitation centers, nursing homes, community centers, and private practice. They may work individually or as part of a multidisciplinary team alongside other healthcare professionals.
Music Therapy is an established health profession in which music is used within a therapeutic relationship to address physical, emotional, cognitive, and social needs of individuals. Music Therapists use a variety of music-related activities to help clients improve their health in several domains, such as developing motor skills, enhancing memory, and providing emotional support. The therapy sessions can be tailored for individuals or groups and involve active music making, listening, song writing, and improvisation.
This profession requires a unique blend of musical skill and clinical knowledge. Music Therapists must be proficient in various instruments and have a deep understanding of how music can be used therapeutically. They must also be skilled in assessing clients' needs, setting therapeutic goals, and evaluating the effectiveness of their interventions.
Music Therapists often work with diverse client populations, ranging from children with developmental disabilities to adults with mental health issues, and elderly patients with neurodegenerative diseases. This diversity makes the work both challenging and rewarding, requiring adaptability, creativity, and a strong commitment to helping others through the power of music.
Becoming a Music Therapist in Canada typically requires a bachelor's degree in music therapy from a program accredited by the Canadian Association of Music Therapists (CAMT), which is usually a 4-year program. Graduates must also complete a supervised clinical internship. To practice professionally, individuals must meet CAMT requirements and obtain the Music Therapist Accredited (MTA) designation.
Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.
