Bill > A05145

This bill provides for the comprehensive licensing of professional and clinical music therapists in New York State, establishing a new regulatory framework for the practice of music therapy. The bill creates two distinct levels of licensure: licensed professional music therapist (LPMT) and licensed clinical music therapist (LCMT), each with specific educational, training, and practice requirements. For professional music therapists, this includes obtaining a bachelor's degree in music therapy, completing 1,200 hours of supervised clinical training, and passing a national certification exam. Clinical music therapists must have a master's degree, complete 1,500 hours of post-master's supervised experience, and are authorized to assess, evaluate, and provide therapeutic interventions for mental, emotional, developmental, and behavioral disorders using music. The bill establishes a state board for music therapy, sets clear boundaries of professional competency, mandates continuing education, and specifies that music therapists cannot prescribe medication or perform invasive procedures. The legislation also requires music therapists to collaborate with other healthcare professionals and prohibits them from representing themselves as qualified to treat communication disorders beyond addressing communication skills. The bill aims to professionalize and standardize music therapy practice, ensuring practitioners meet rigorous educational and training standards while protecting public safety.

Education

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A5145