Government Relations and Task Force History
The Georgia State Task Force originally began in 2006 as part of a national initiative formulated by the American Music Therapy Association (AMTA) and the Certification Board for Music Therapists (CBMT) to address the recognition of music therapy as a profession in the state of Georgia. Early on it became clear that in order to receive the professional recognition that music therapy deserved in Georgia, the Task Force needed to lead the charge to pursue licensure through legislative action. In May 2012, after a number of years of significant advocacy efforts, Governor Nathan Deal signed SB 414 into law, requiring music therapists working in Georgia to become licensed through the Secretary of State. The Task Force continues to pursue advocacy efforts throughout the state aimed at increasing access of quality music therapy services to the residents of Georgia.
Task Force:
Rachel Coon-Arnott, MMT, LPMT, MT-BC
(chairperson)
119rachel@gmail.com
Kirby Carruth, MMT, LPMT, MT-BC
kirbyc.smith@gmail.com
Jamie George, MM, LPMT, MT-BC
jamie@thegeorgecenter.com
Links
Copy of the Law regarding licensure for Music Therapy Professionals
Georgia Secretary of State website and location of Licensing Application for Music Therapy Professionals
Videos from the MTAG Executive Board and Advisory Committee Meeting:
Brief Introduction of the Advisory Committee
Outline of the Music Therapy licensing act
Questions from Membership 1
Questions from Membership 2
Questions from Membership 3
Additional resources for Government Relations:
American Music Therapy Association
Southeastern Region of the American Music Therapy Association
The Certification Board for Music Therapists
Find Your State Legislator
Georgia State Legislature