Music Therapy Intern
About Lawrence Hall
Lawrence Hall is a Chicago-based nonprofit providing therapeutic, wellness, and skill-building programs for youth, families, and neighborhoods affected by trauma. We foster healing and growth through empowerment, respect, safety, and teamwork.
Our Creative Therapies program offers innovative, evidence-based approaches to help young people explore emotions, manage behaviors, and develop a sense of purpose. Through music, art, and other creative modalities, our youth build social skills, confidence, and emotional resilience.
About the Role
As a Music Therapy Intern, you’ll work directly with youth ages 6–21 to support their emotional and social growth through music. You’ll help facilitate individual and group sessions, observe client progress, and learn from a multidisciplinary team of therapists, educators, and fellow interns. This internship is a hands-on opportunity to gain clinical experience, build skills in trauma-informed care, and make a meaningful impact on young lives every day.
In this internship, you will have the opportunity to:
- Facilitate individual (1:1) and group music therapy sessions under supervision.
- Lead or assist with open music studio sessions.
- Observe and document client participation, progress, and engagement.
- Participate in reflective supervision and weekly case discussions.
- Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team including therapists, caseworkers, educators, and creative arts therapy interns.
- Attend required training sessions and participate in ongoing learning opportunities.
Internship Structure
- Orientation Period: Interns will observe music therapy sessions with populations across the organization, as well as observing various therapeutic groups (including art therapy, music therapy, adventure therapy, and therapeutic recreation) to build familiarity with therapeutic approaches and client needs while establishing rapport.
- Building a Caseload: Interns will gradually begin seeing individual clients and may co-lead or independently lead music therapy groups based on readiness and comfort level.
- Group Format: Group sessions typically involve 6–8 clients with a 1:3 staff-to-client ratio. Interns are consistently supported by supervisors and staff to ensure a collaborative and safe space for therapeutic work.
Who We’re Looking For
Required:
- Currently enrolled in a bachelor’s or master’s program for Music Therapy from an accredited university
- Proficiency in voice, guitar and piano
- Submission of a current resume, two letters of recommendation and audition videos
- Access to transportation to go between campuses
- Experience working with children or adolescents in community, clinical, or school-based settings as well as understanding of youth development, adolescent needs, and strength-based approaches
Preferred:
- Prior experience working with youth and families exposed to trauma or traumatic stress
- Cultural sensitivity and openness to working with individuals from diverse backgrounds
- Awareness of ethical standards in clinical and therapeutic settings
- Basic crisis management skills or a willingness to be trained
- Basic documentation and clinical note-taking skills
How to Apply
Submit your application here. We look forward to learning more about you!
Frequently cited statistics show that women and underrepresented groups apply to jobs only if they meet 100% of the necessary skills and abilities. Lawrence Hall encourages you to apply even if you do not have experience in all areas of essential functions. We look forward to your application. This position meets the FLSA requirements for Unpaid Intern. Equal Opportunity Employer M/F/D/V