Recognition: Estonia

As Music Therapy.

Yes, the MSc from Tallinn University is recognised as fully qualifying music therapists to work in Estonia. Those who have a BA or a qualification from another university need to complete a certification process in order to practise.

Either:

• MSc from Tallinn University
• Certification process for those with BA or if degree is from another university.

At present the regulation is monitored through the Association of Estonian Music Therapy (EMTA) and Association of Estonian Creative Arts Therapies and is based on occupational qualification standards that are linked to music therapy education in Estonia.

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Overseas-trained music therapists have to meet the standards of Music Therapy for Level 6 or Level 7 and demonstrate proficiency in Estonian language.

For the BA, a certification process is needed. The certification is given only by the Estonian Association of Music Therapy. The certification has to be renewed every 5 years. This process includes provision of documentation and an evaluation done according to standards set by the Evaluation Commitee.

Regarding the MSc, no certification process is needed. The certifcation is given by two associations (Association of Estonian Creative Arts Therapies and Association of Estonian MT). This certificate has to be renewed every 7 years.

1) 2011-2012: Creation of a group working on professional standards consisting of 7 people: 3 from Music Therapy Associations, 3 from Creative Arts Therapies associations and one from the umbrella organization (Estonian Qualification Authority).

2) The EQA approved the professional standards of BA and MSc.

3) Professional Committees were created by Music Therapy Associations and Creative Arts Associations. They developed the certification process.

4) Estonian Qualification Authority enters the all professional certificates in the national professional register.

There was collaboration with theb Creative Arts Therapies Associations, but once all the documents were approved by the Estonian Qualification Authority, the Music Therapy Associations and the Creative Arts Therapies Associations became independent with regard to certification management.

1. It was a long process

2. There were many meetings, it was volunteer work

3. There was a lot of collaboration.

4. There was a leader driving the process and motivating others.

The different levels of certification are very useful and justified in Estonia.