Ascend Health is hiring: Music Therapist in Cranford

Overview

Music Therapist at Ascend Health is a full‑time, entry‑level position focused on delivering therapeutic music services to hospice patients. The role requires a blend of clinical assessment, creative music intervention, and collaborative teamwork.

Responsibilities

• Demonstrate basic knowledge of the purpose, intent, and function of music therapy for various client populations.
• Apply philosophical, psychological, physiological, and sociological bases for the use of music as therapy.
• Utilize current technologies in music therapy assessment, treatment, and evaluation.
• Assist patients in restoring and maintaining mental health, improving comprehension, and enhancing physical abilities.
• Instruct patients individually or in groups using prescribed instrumental or vocal music and music projective techniques such as guided imagery, progressive relaxation, and conscious‑feeling awareness.
• Communicate assessment findings and recommendations in written and verbal forms.
• Observe and record accurately the client’s responses to assessment.
• Select and implement culturally based methods for assessing client assets and problems through music.
• Identify the client’s therapeutic needs through analysis and interpretation of music therapy and related assessment data.
• Choose or create music therapy experiences and settings that meet client needs.
• Formulate goals and objectives for individuals and group therapy based on assessment findings.
• Provide preliminary estimates of frequency and duration of treatment.
• Offer sensory stimulation that allows the client to use visual, auditory, or tactile cues.
• Promote relaxation and/or stress in music therapy sessions.
• Employ therapeutic verbal skills during music therapy sessions.
• Sequence and pace music experiences within a session according to client needs and situational factors.
• Conduct or facilitate group and individual music therapy using improvisational skills.
• Create a physical environment (e.g., arrangement of space, furniture, equipment, and instruments) that is conducive to effective therapy.
• Develop and maintain a repertoire of music for age, culture, and cognitive differences.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in Music Therapy or related field required.
• Master’s Degree preferred.
• 2–4 years of related experience in hospice or acute care music therapy.
• Basic instrument‑playing ability, moderate vocal skills, and considerable knowledge of music styles.
• Ability to develop and use a variety of musical applications to coordinate a treatment plan.

Benefits

• Competitive salary range $60,000.00–$80,000.00.
• Comprehensive healthcare benefits.
• 401(k) retirement plan with company match.
• Paid time off and mileage reimbursement.
• Opportunities to advance and grow your career within Ascend Health.

EEO / Equal Opportunity

Ascend Hospice is an Equal Opportunity Employer. EEO/AA/M/F/DV. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, veteran status or any other protected class.