Winter 2009 issue
CBMT APPROVED PROVIDERS PLAY A VITAL ROLE IN OFFERING CONTINUING EDUCATION OPPORTUNITIES TO MT-BCs
Brian Abrams, Ph.D., MT-BC, LPC, LCAT, FAMI
CBMT Continuing Education Committee Member
In order to fulfill its mission of promoting competent practice by MT-BCs, CBMT relies upon the commitment and expertise of its Approved Providers (APs). APs are specially qualified to offer continuing education experiences that help MT-BCs maintain, develop, or increase knowledge, skills, and professional abilities that are identified within CBMT’s Scope of Practice, and which are required for ongoing, competent practice.
In order to address the continuing education needs of MT-BCs, APs conduct Needs Assessment surveys. They ask MT-BCs to identify specific topics and areas of continuing education that would best support their ability to practice competently. Based upon 2007 survey data compiled by the APs and the CBMT Continuing Education Committee (CEC), the major topics and identified areas of need were as follows:
Music Therapy Populations Served
- Autism/Pervasive Developmental Disorders
- Geriatrics (Including Alzheimer’s and other Dementias)
- Early Childhood
Music Theory and Skills
- Improvisation
- Percussion Techniques & Drumming
Professional Development
- Supervision
Documentation/Evaluation
- Formulating Goals & Objectives
- Assessment
Related Technologies
- Uses of Technology in the Practice of Music Therapy
The CEC has begun the process of actively seeking out current and potential APs who can offer continuing education opportunities in the above areas. If you are currently an AP, the CEC offers sincere thanks for your support. If you are not currently an AP, please consider becoming an AP. Becoming an AP affords you opportunities to contribute to the skill and knowledge development of MT-BCs, to foster collegiality and knowledge exchange among music therapists, and to develop a business.
The CEC is available to answer questions or to provide special assistance during the Approved Provider application process. A free mentorship program is offered, which provides potential APs with a mentor member of the CEC. This mentor will provide support and feedback throughout the approval process. Please contact the CBMT office at 1-800-765-2268, ext. 23 for information, or download an Approved Manual and One-Year Probationary Application from our website at www.cbmt.org.