Job Summary:

In accordance with the Purpose, Vision, Values and Coast Salish Teachings, and strategic direction of PHSA, safety, including both patient and employee safety, is a priority and a responsibility shared by everyone at PHSA. As such, the requirement to continuously improve quality and safety is inherent in all aspects of this position.

The Music Therapist is responsible for the development, implementation, and evaluation of a music therapy program designed to meet the specific needs of patients and families. The Music Therapist functions as a member of an assigned health care team and in accordance with the professional standards of practice of the Canadian Association for Music Therapy.

Duties/Accountabilities:

1.    Plans, implements, coordinates, and evaluates a music therapy program for an assigned area/patient population.

2.    Plans and implements music therapy sessions specific to the needs of the child and family and documents assessment information, goals, interventions, incident reports, statistics, and progress notes.

3.    Addresses difficulties associated with illness and hospitalization by providing opportunities for creative expression, relaxation, developmentally appropriate play, support, pain management, and socialization through the therapeutic use of music.

4.    Provides in-service education to hospital staff, students, and volunteers in the applied principles and practices of music therapy.

5.    Maintains and updates musical equipment and materials ensuring safe and appropriate use.

6.    Acts as a resource person for families and staff, providing information on appropriate music resources and community programs.

7.    Collaborates with members of the health care team, and communicates issues related to music therapy, by participating in psychosocial rounds, team meetings, and case discussions.

8.    Participates in weekly staff meetings, quality assurance initiatives, and in setting departmental goals and objectives by providing recommendations regarding new initiatives and/or changes to existing programs to the Director.

9.    Participates in the planning and implementation of special events and in the organization of entertainment for patients and families.

10.    Provides guidance, support and supervision to music therapy students and volunteers.

11.    Maintains and expands current knowledge in music therapy by reviewing professional literature, consulting with other professionals, and attending relevant education sessions.

12.    Works in collaboration with other hospital departments such as the Foundation, Volunteer Services, and Public Relations.

13.    Performs other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

Education, Training and Experience

•    Baccalaureate in Music Therapy from a recognized program or a diploma in Music Therapy with equivalent years’ experience.
•    Minimum two (2) years’ recent related experience in music therapy working with children and families as well as demonstrated leadership skills.
•    Accredited or eligible for accreditation with the Canadian Association for Music Therapy.

Skills and Abilities

•    Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.
•    Ability to represent and communicate the role of music therapy to others.
•    Ability to organize and prioritize work.
•    Ability to work as a member of an interdisciplinary team.
•    Ability to work effectively with others.
•    Broad repertoire for children and youth.
•    Physical ability to carry out the duties of the position.