Contracted Music Therapist

Ascent Behavioral Hospital•Millcreek, UT

22h•Onsite

About The Position

The Contracted Music Therapist (MT-BC) provides structured, therapeutic music-based interventions for adolescent patients in a psychiatric hospital setting. This role focuses on facilitating a consistent evening group that promotes emotional expression, coping skill development, and social connection. The Music Therapist operates as an independent contractor and collaborates with the interdisciplinary treatment team to support individualized treatment goals through evidence-based music therapy practices in a safe, trauma-informed environment.

Requirements

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Music Therapy from an accredited program
Board Certification (MT-BC) required
Strong group facilitation and interpersonal skills
Ability to work effectively with adolescents in a behavioral health setting
Knowledge of trauma-informed care and crisis management strategies
Ability to maintain professional boundaries while building rapport
Must pass a federal background check and meet facility credentialing requirements

Nice To Haves

Experience in behavioral health, psychiatric, or residential treatment settings
Experience working with adolescents or high-acuity populations
Proficiency with instruments such as guitar, keyboard, and percussion
Experience with songwriting, improvisation, and receptive music therapy techniques
Ability to engage resistant or withdrawn participants
Cultural competence and sensitivity to diverse backgrounds

Responsibilities

Plan and facilitate a structured 60-minute music therapy group each evening (approximately 6:30–7:30 PM).
Utilize evidence-based music therapy techniques to support emotional regulation, self-expression, and coping skill development.
Foster a safe, inclusive, and supportive therapeutic group environment for adolescents ages 12–17.
Encourage peer interaction, engagement, and social connection through music-based interventions.
Adapt interventions to meet varying diagnoses, acuity levels, and participation styles.
Incorporate trauma-informed care principles into all sessions.
Utilize a variety of modalities such as songwriting, improvisation, and receptive music therapy.
Maintain appropriate professional boundaries while building rapport with patients.
Communicate relevant observations and patient engagement to clinical staff.
Complete required documentation in accordance with hospital and regulatory standards.
Ensure proper use, safety, and care of instruments and equipment.