Intern With
Earthtones Northwest
Applications for our July -December 2025 university-affiliated music therapy internship are now open and are due Oct 1, 2024.
Please note that while we are currently “inactive” as a national roster internship, our university affiliated internship is active.
Candidates must be on track to complete coursework for a Bachelor or Master of Music Therapy from an American Music Therapy Association approved program by the internship start date.
A University-Affiliated Music Therapy Internship in Portland, Oregon
Earthtones Northwest offers an exceptional six-month, full-time internship in a dynamic, supportive learning environment. Our program is unique because it offers innovative models of supervision from our supportive team of music therapists, opportunities to work in a variety of settings, and an emphasis on building a heartful practice rooted in resource-oriented, music-centered, and human-centered philosophies.
Ideal candidates will demonstrate exceptional clinical musicianship, thrive in an ever changing work environment, be motivated to build a compassionate and affirming practice, and be ready for growth and expansion.
Internship Applications
Applications, letters of recommendation, and transcripts are to be emailed to our program director. We will respond within two weeks of the application deadline.
For the July start date, submit your application by Oct 1 of the previous year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who will my clients be?
We work with clients of all ages and abilities. Even when our clients share similar diagnoses, we tailor our services for each individual or group, incorporating each person’s musical interests and abilities, strengths, desired areas of growth, and sociocultural identities. You can expect to work in individual and group settings with young adults, adults, and elders with dementia, developmental disabilities and/or mental health needs. Goals commonly addressed for clients in the internship program include: experiencing the joy of creating and listening to music, creative expression, building community and connection, and leisure/enjoyment. The majority of our clientele are served in adult/elder day programs, retirement and assisted living homes, group homes, and private homes. Opportunities to work with children are limited at this time.
What is the average day like?
Your schedule will occur Monday through Friday between the hours of 9am and 6pm. You will travel to an average of 3-4 sites per day all around the Portland, OR area (some sessions are held on zoom either from interns home or our office). Note that reliable transportation (a car or taxi service) is required and the bus system will not suffice to make your appointments on time. Each day you will attend sites with a different board-certified music therapist and end your day with supervision with that therapist, giving you the opportunity to experience a variety of clinical and supervision styles. The first month will be primarily observation, followed by co-facilitating and eventually independently facilitating at sites. In addition to your sessions, commuting, and supervision, you will have time allotted for session prep, documentation, and special projects. On occasion, you may have opportunities to participate in optional weekend or evening events, such as sensory-friendly concerts, presentations, or community drum circles.
Do I need to supply my own instruments?
Interns are provided with an instrument welcome kit and will have access to instruments and media to check-out through Earthtones Northwest, including: metallophones, tone chimes, keyboards, djembes and tubanos, gathering drums, electric and acoustic guitars and so much more. Each intern needs to supply their own guitar and portable speaker.
What benefits do I receive as an intern?
In addition to the excellent clinical training and supervision opportunities, you will receive: a $1,500 internship stipend ($250/month), an instrument welcome kit (valued at $250), paid membership to the Oregon Association for Music Therapy, and the option for additional student training opportunities, funded by Earthtones Northwest, when available.
Do I need to inform my school of my intention to apply for a university-affiliated internship with Earthtones Northwest prior to applying?
We recommend that you share your intention to apply for our program with your school’s clinical coordinator/internship advisor prior to applying, and we welcome any questions about our program at any time. Once you are accepted to our program, we will reach out to the university directly to establish a university-affiliated internship contract.
Do you accept international students?
Yes, international music therapy degree students please contact the Certification Board for Music Therapists prior to applying to find out if you will meet the requirements to sit for the CBMT Board Certification Examination upon completion of internship, and state their response/approval in your application email.
Do you offer internships to non-music therapy majors?
Please note that we only offer placements for students or graduates in related majors such as music, psychology, or expressive arts therapies who also meet the AMTA/CBMT approved music therapy degree program requirement. You must meet all the requirements to sit for the CBMT exam upon completion of your internship.