OAMT embodies our mission by providing a centralized place for music therapists in Oregon to come together to nourish and deepen their clinical practice. Whether attending our yearly state conference, sharing resources amongst colleagues, or connecting clients and therapists on our “Find a Therapist” directory, OAMT creates connections in the music therapy community.

OAMT also helps to coordinate advocacy efforts to grow the music therapy profession in Oregon. We provide information to prospective music therapy students about the profession, provide support to governmental efforts to increase access to services, and provide a central place for learning about music therapy in our state.

What is music Therapy?

Music Therapy is the clinical and evidence-based use of music interventions to accomplish individualized goals within a therapeutic relationship by a credentialed professional who has completed an approved music therapy program.

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. After assessing the strengths and needs of each client, the qualified music therapist provides the indicated treatment including creating, singing, moving to, and/or listening to music. Through musical involvement in the therapeutic context, clients' abilities are strengthened and transferred to other areas of their lives. Music therapy also provides avenues for communication that can be helpful to those who find it difficult to express themselves in words. Research in music therapy supports its effectiveness in many areas such as: overall physical rehabilitation and facilitating movement, increasing people's motivation to become engaged in their treatment, providing emotional support for clients and their families, and providing an outlet for expression of feelings. 

                             - American Music Therapy Association