Global Music Therapy Survey 2025: Developments and Trends a Decade Later

Area of Science:

• Music Therapy
• Global Health
• Professional Development

Background:

• The 2025 Global Music Therapy Survey examines profession evolution a decade after the 2016/2017 study.
• It tracks demographic shifts, practice changes, and emerging trends in music therapy.
• The study builds upon foundational data to assess long-term professional development.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the current state and trajectory of the global music therapy profession.
• To identify key developments in practice, demographics, and emerging trends.
• To highlight challenges and opportunities for the music therapy field's future impact.

Main Methods:

• Quantitative and qualitative analyses of survey data from 1,183 music therapists.
• Responses collected across 8 World Federation of Music Therapy regions.
• Comparative analysis with data from the 2016/2017 inaugural study.

Main Results:

• The profession remains female-dominated but shows increasing gender plurality and high educational attainment.
• Entrepreneurial roles have more than doubled; practice has shifted towards healthcare and private settings.
• Telepractice and digital tools are emerging supplemental models, though integration presents challenges.
• Music therapists address lifespan needs, focusing on developmental disabilities, mental health, and neurological conditions.

Conclusions:

• Music therapy is globally relevant and confident but structurally vulnerable.
• Advancement requires policy advocacy, accessible education, equitable labor protections, ethical technology use, and sustained research.
• Strengthening the profession is crucial for its contribution to international health agendas.