Contracted Music Therapist

About Ascent Behavioral Hospital

At Ascent Behavioral Hospital, we provide compassionate care, helping adolescents navigate challenges related to anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation in a supportive and safe environment. We are committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based mental health care to adolescents who are in need of our services. We uphold the highest standards of integrity, respect, and excellence while fostering a culture of collaboration, accountability, and safety.

Position Summary

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.

Scope of Services / Key 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.

Service Expectations / Essential Functions

● Deliver consistent, high-quality therapeutic groups in accordance with the agreed-upon schedule.

● Modify facilitation approach in real-time based on patient presentation and group dynamics.

● Maintain situational awareness and respond appropriately to patients in distress.

● Communicate effectively with clinical and nursing staff regarding patient participation and concerns.

● Adhere to all facility policies related to safety, confidentiality, and patient interaction.

Competencies

● Action Oriented: Delivers engaging, purposeful sessions that achieve therapeutic outcomes.

● Communication: Clearly facilitates groups and collaborates effectively with staff.

● Patient Focus: Creates a safe, supportive, and inclusive therapeutic environment.

● Interpersonal Skills: Builds trust while maintaining appropriate professional boundaries.

● Adaptability: Adjusts interventions based on patient needs and clinical acuity.

● Emotional Intelligence: Demonstrates empathy and awareness in a behavioral health setting.

● Clinical Expertise: Applies evidence-based music therapy practices effectively.

● Teamwork: Works collaboratively within a multidisciplinary treatment team.

Qualifications

Qualifications

Required:

● 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

Preferred:

● 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

Contract Terms & Conditions

● This role is classified as an independent contractor (1099) and is not an employee position.

● Contractor is responsible for their own taxes, liability insurance, and professional credentials.

● Contractor maintains control over the methods and means of delivering services within agreed program guidelines.

● Schedule, rate, and duration of services will be defined in a separate contractor agreement.

● Contractor is not eligible for employee benefits, including health insurance, PTO, or retirement plans.

● Contractor will need to fill out a Business Associate Agreement and a Services Agreement per Ascent Behavioral Hospital policy. 

● Contractor will complete training as required by Ascent Behavioral Hospital, the Joint Commission and Utah Law.