Music Therapy Advocacy

A photo of Illinois State Senator Laura Murphy with task force members Nancy Swanson and Victoria Storm.
Illinois State Senator Laura Murphy (center) pictured with task force members Nancy Swanson (left) and Victoria Storm (right).

Music Therapy Licensure Bill in Illinois SB2243
The Illinois State Recognition Task Force continues to partner with Leader Laura Murphy who filed SB2243- Music Therapy Licensing and Practice Act.  This bill is awaiting assignment to a Senate committee.

Hill Day 2020

Illinois Music Therapists, along with Judy Simpson, Director of Government Relations for the American Music Therapy Association and Dena Register, the Regulatory Affairs Advisor for the Certification Board for Music Therapists, attended Hill Day to advocate for SB1198. Music therapists were recognized by the Senate Members.

Champion of Music Therapy Award

Leader Laura Murphy receiving the Champion of Music Therapy Award from IL Government Relations Chair Nancy Swanson
Leader Laura Murphy receiving the Champion of Music Therapy Award from IL Government Relations Chair Nancy Swanson

Our Champions of Music Therapy Award Recipients:

  • Katrina Agnew- Executive Director of Season’s Hospice and Palliative Care, IL
  • Sylvia Smith-Executive Director for Giant Steps
  • Susan Ruohonen- Senior Director of Family Services at Lurie Children’s Hospital
  • Dr. Nina Kraus

In the meantime, all Illinois music therapists, as well as colleagues and employers are asked to reach out to their legislators, educate them about the profession, and ask for their support. Include this document, Please Support Senate Bill 1198, with your interactions with the legislators.

An image with information on contacting your legislators.

For all advocacy questions, please contact Nancy Swanson, MA, MT-BC.