Music Therapist

Description

Reach for Resources is a nonprofit agency based out of Edina, Minnesota. We provide individualized services that maximize independence, boost community engagement and improve physical and emotional well-being to individuals of all abilities living in the Minneapolis metro area. Our recreation department offers small group and individual therapeutic services and also contracts with county and city park and recreation departments to provide adaptive recreation, inclusion support, and training services to their community members.

Job Summary

The music therapist is responsible for planning, developing, and implementing music therapy services for individuals with physical, cognitive, emotional, and/or social disabilities. Using evidence-based practices, the therapist designs music interventions that support individuals in achieving functional improvements, enhancing quality of life, and participating more fully in their community. 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities 

· Assessment & Planning

• Conduct individualized assessments to evaluate participant strengths, needs, interests, and goals.
• Develop treatment plans in alignment with therapeutic objectives, documenting measurable outcomes.
• Regularly reassess participant progress and update plans as needed.

· Program Development & Implementation

• Independently manage a referral list and complete intakes
• Design and lead music  therapy sessions—including individual interventions and group activities.
• Modify activities to ensure accessibility and full participation for individuals of all abilities.
• Use adaptive equipment and assistive technology appropriately and safely.
• Attend marketing and community events to spread the word about music therapy.
• Develop community partnerships to hold community-based music therapy.

· Participant Support & Advocacy

• Foster an inclusive, supportive environment that promotes independence, well-being, and self-expression.
• Collaborate with families and caregivers to support carryover of skills in home and community settings.
• Advocate for participant needs and model inclusive practices for staff, volunteers, and community partners. `

· Interdisciplinary Collaboration

• Work closely with healthcare providers, educators, behavioral specialists, social workers, and community organizations.

· Documentation & Compliance

• Maintain accurate, timely, and confidential documentation in accordance with organizational policies and regulatory       requirements.
• Track attendance, program outcomes, incidents,  and progress notes.

· Program Operations

• Assist with planning special events, community recreation partnerships, and seasonal programming.
• Train and supervise volunteers, aides, student interns, or support staff as assigned.
• Maintain safe environments through equipment inspections, risk management practices,  and adherence to safety protocols.

Requirements

Required Qualifications

· Board Certification in Music Therapy (MT-BC) 

· BA (or higher) in Music Therapy

• Knowledge of current best practices in music therapy
• Ability to work independently
• A self starter

· Ability to work with diverse populations, including individuals with physical, intellectual, developmental, or behavioral disabilities.

• Strong communication skills
• Ability to work as a member of a team

· Must have current driver’s license in good standing and maintain own reliable transportation

· Strong written and oral communication skills

· Ability to work a flexible schedule

Preferred Qualifications

· Group leadership experience

· At least 1 year experience working with individuals with disabilities

Environment

The Recreational Therapist will work in a variety of settings to support participants and program needs. Reach For Resources offers a hybrid work model for administrative responsibilities, allowing for both remote and in-office work. Program facilitation occurs across diverse environments, including community recreation centers, outdoor activity sites, off-site program locations, and participant homes.

Schedule

This is a part-time position averaging approximately 20 hours per week. The schedule is flexible and may vary based on program needs. Evening, weekend, or holiday hours may be required.

Physical Demands

This position requires the ability to perform a range of physical tasks to support program delivery and participant needs. Duties may involve lifting and carrying items weighing up to 50 pounds. The role requires safely operating a motor vehicle for both city and highway driving. The Recreational Therapist must be able to walk and traverse a variety of community and outdoor environments, including natural areas with uneven terrain or unpaved paths. The position also requires consistent use of technology—such as a laptop, printer, and related devices—for administrative and program responsibilities.