History and Rationale of Music Therapy Licensure
As of January 2016, all board-certified music therapists are required to obtain a music therapy license through the Oregon State Health Licensing Office (HLO). The license aims to promote clients’ access to safe, high-quality music therapy services provided by a board-certified music therapist. The license assures clients that their music therapist holds a music therapy degree from an American Music Therapy Association (AMTA) approved program, has completed 1200 clinical training hours, and has successfully passed the national Certification Board for Music Therapists' (CBMT) examination.
The Oregon State Music Therapy Task Force that coordinates governmental advocacy for music therapy in the state was begun in 2007 as part of the State Recognition Operational Program jointly coordinated by AMTA and CBMT. The Oregon State Task Force mobilized grassroots advocacy support for music therapy by hosting Hill Days in 2013 and 2015. These efforts led to the creation of the Oregon music therapy license when Governor Brown signed HB 2796 into law on July 1st, 2015. The Task Force continues to advocate for access to music therapy services for Oregon residents through Medicaid and the Oregon Health Authority.
More information about the Oregon music therapy license and the Oregon State Task Force can be found below.
Oregon Music Therapy License FAQs
How do I apply for a music therapy license in Oregon?
To apply, click here and follow the instructions on the website.
How much does it cost to apply for the license?
There is a one time $150 application fee, a $50 license fee, and an annual renewal fee of $50.
Where can I find a detailed description of what is required to obtain a music therapy license?
The requirements for obtaining an Oregon music therapy license can be found by clicking here.
How do I renew my license?
To maintain licensure, a music therapist must complete a minimum of ten (10) continuing education (CE) hours every licensure year. For the current CE requirements, please see Oregon Administrative Rule (OAR) 331-320-0010.
Documentation supporting compliance with CE requirements must be maintained by the licensee for a period of two (2) years following license renewal and be provided to the Health Licensing Office upon request.
Each licensee shall document compliance with the CE credit requirements through attestation on the license renewal application. For current auditing and sanction information, please see OAR 331-020-0020.
When it is time to renew your license, you will receive a notification by mail. Some music therapists may not be able to renew their license online including those who:
Have current or unresolved disciplinary action(s) against them
Are attempting to renew more than 45 days before the expiration date
Are attempting to renew late (past their expiration date)
How much does it cost to renew my license?
The renewal cost is $50. Please note that there is a $40 late fee if not renewed in time.
When will I know when it is time to renew?
The HLO will send a notification by mail for renewal 45 days prior to your license expiration date.
How can I find my license number and expiration date?
You can check your license status, number, and expiration date here.
I still have more questions. Who can I contact?
The HLO can be reached at (503) 378-8667 or hlo.info@state.or.us.
You can also contact the OAMT Government Task Force at ORMusicTherapyTF@gmail.com