ATLANTA (March 5, 2012) –The Georgia Senate passed SB 414 on Monday by a vote of 33 to 17. Sponsored by Sen. Renee Unterman (R-Buford), this legislation would require music therapists practicing in Georgia to be licensed by the Secretary of State.
The practice of music therapy focuses primarily on improving a patient’s overall wellbeing. Music therapists provide clinical assessments and therapeutic support among a wide variety of environments ranging from hospitals to educational settings. In addition, these licensed professionals employ a multitude of methodologies to provide clinical care for individuals such as the elderly and those with developmental disabilities.
“As the demand for alternative therapies continues to grow, it is crucial to strengthen laws which govern how music therapists practice in Georgia,” said Sen. Unterman. “With the passage of SB 414, patients can rest assured knowing their music therapist is operating under the highest level of professionalism.”
In order to become a certified music therapist, all therapists must pass an examination administered by the Certification Board for Music Therapists. Under this legislation, all music therapists who seek to operate in Georgia must also receive licensure by the Georgia Secretary of State after January 1, 2014.
In order to receive a music therapist license, an applicant must pay all applicable fees established by the Secretary of State and must meet the following requirements:
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Hold a bachelors degree or higher in music therapy from a program approved by the American Music Therapy Association.
- Have completed at least 1,200 hours in clinical training, of which 180 hours must be in a pre-internship and 900 in an internship.
- Remain in good standing as a music therapist within their state of licensure.
- Provide proof of passing the board certification examination.
- Pass a background check
The examination requirement can be waived until January 1, 2014, for all applicants who are certified as music therapists with the Certification Board for Music Therapists and are designated as registered music therapists, certified music therapists, or advanced certified music therapists with the National Music Therapy Registry.
According to this legislation, licenses are renewable every two years. In order to renew their license, therapists will be required to provide proof of maintenance of Certification Board for Music Therapists credentials and complete 40 hours of continuing education. Failure to renew a license will result in the forfeiture of the license. If this occurs, the license may be restored within one year or the license will be terminated. However, a license may be placed on inactive status through a written request.
SB 414 also establishes a Music Therapy Advisory Group. As part of its functions, this group will advise the Secretary of State on issues related to music therapy and analyze disciplinary actions taken against licenses.
SB 414 will continue its way through the legislative process by traveling to the House of Representatives for a vote.
RELEASE
March 5, 2012
For Information Contact:
Natalie Dale, Director
Shawna Mercer,Sr. Communications Specialist
shawna.mercer@senate.ga.gov
404.656.0028