Music Therapist- Adults w/Special Needs

About Us

Circle Haven is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing creative, person-centered opportunities and support services to adults with disabilities in South Jersey. Our Community Engagement Center offers art, cooking, fitness, and music classes that meet individuals where they are and support both personal growth and community connection. As a growing organization, we value innovation, flexibility, and professional development.

Position Overview

We are seeking a compassionate and creative Music Therapist to lead individual and small group sessions for adults with a wide range of abilities and goals. This position is ideal for either a new music therapist or recent graduate with experience supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, autism, ADHD, anxiety, and other needs.

Some participants are engaging in adapted lessons with traditional music instruction goals (e.g., learning to play guitar or piano), while other participants are engaging in music-making experiences that focus on participation, connection, and creative expression. The best candidate will be able to flexibly adjust their approach depending on the needs and goals of each individual.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide engaging and individualized music sessions to adults of varying ability levels
• Offer adapted lessons in voice, drums, guitar, piano, and other instruments (based on your expertise)
• Create a supportive, respectful, and encouraging environment
• Collaborate with team members to organize performances, music groups, and community events
• Modify teaching strategies to accommodate different communication and learning styles
• Track and document participant progress and attendance

Ideal Qualifications

• Proficiency in one or more instruments (guitar, piano, drums, voice)
• Experience working with individuals with special needs
• Ability to adapt lessons based on therapeutic or instructional goals
• Creative, patient, and flexible teaching style
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team
• Degree in music, music therapy, special education, or a related field (preferred but not required)

Schedule & Hours

• Flexible weekday schedule, generally between 10:00 AM-5:00 PM (*Currently looking to fill hours on M/W from 10-2)
• One to two evenings per week as caseload grows
• Occasional Friday evening programming (approximately once per month)
• Potential for weekend hours as programming grows
• Current hours are approx 10 hours/week- Hours are expected to grow as the program continues to expand

To Apply

If you're passionate about making music accessible to all and want to make a meaningful impact, we'd love to hear from you. Please send your resume and a brief cover letter describing your relevant experience, in addition to times that are available in your schedule for an interview.