Post graduate certificate approved by Association of Professional Music Therapists (APMT) and recognised by the Health Professions Council (HPC) is needed to practice as a professional music therapist. With a degree or three year diploma in music you can enter into post graduate level. A graduate in psychology or education with high talent and music ability can also work as music therapist. Working experience with mentally handicapped or disabled children or adults is an advantage. Voluntary services can be done with local NHS trust. A qualified person with relevant experiences can open out as assistant therapists. A professional musician with a back ground of teaching or social service can also work as music therapist. A beginner can do further improvements through advanced courses in psychology, early infant development, psychodynamics, psychiatry, or in the theory of music therapy. Once you register with any organization you will get supervision from experienced persons. You will also be placed in hospitals, schools or in other community centers for patient contacts. You will also be asked to attended work shops and conferences for professional development.