Music Therapy Intern

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The Music Therapy Internship at MSA UpperLocation is designed for a second-year graduate student from SUNY New Paltz completing advanced competencies in music therapy. This internship provides a structured, supportive environment where interns can apply their academic training to real-world clinical experiences, independently managing a caseload of individual and group sessions.  Interns will develop skills in planning, implementing, and evaluating therapeutic music experiences that align with students' Individualized Education Programs (IEPs).  

Key Responsibilities:
- Independently manage a caseload of individual and group music therapy sessions.
- Design, implement, and adapt music therapy interventions to meet students' diverse needs and goals.
- Maintain accurate and timely session notes, progress reports, and documentation.
- Collaborate with the interdisciplinary team, including special education teachers, occupational therapists, speech therapists, and behavioral specialists.
- Contribute to the development of new music therapy activities and materials tailored to the needs of students with I/DD.
- Evaluate the effectiveness of interventions and adjust strategies accordingly.
- Receive weekly supervision from a New York State Licensed Creative Arts Therapist (LCAT) and Board-Certified Music Therapist (MT-BC) and participate in reflective discussions.
- Develop and refine advanced competencies in areas such as assessment, goal-setting, and therapeutic relationship-building.
- Assist in organizing and maintaining the music therapy space and materials.
- Support the facilitation of special events.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Desired:
- Strong knowledge of music therapy practices, particularly with individuals with autism and developmental disabilities.
- Competence in using a variety of musical instruments, including guitar, piano, percussion, and voice, to facilitate therapeutic experiences.
- Ability to independently manage a caseload and demonstrate professional time-management skills.
- Effective communication and collaboration skills for working with an interdisciplinary team.
- Cultural competence and sensitivity when working with diverse populations.
- Ability to handle challenging behaviors with patience, creativity, and professionalism.

Education and Experience Required:
- Currently enrolled in the second year of a Master’s program in Music Therapy at SUNY New Paltz or an AMTA-approved program.
- Completion of foundational coursework and clinical practica required for advanced competencies in music therapy.
- Demonstrated experience working with children, adolescents, or young adults with autism or developmental disabilities (preferred).

This is an unpaid internship opportunity that is only open to current students. The internship may be able to satisfy course credit if approved by the student's institution of learning.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or status as a Vietnam or disabled veteran. YAI is an Equal Opportunity Employer.