Music is an effective tool to mediate change in non-musical functioning for certain individuals due to its unique characteristics when compared with spoken language or the visual modality. Research supports parallels between speech, singing, rhythm, motor behavior, memory for song, memory for academic material, and overall ability of preference to music to enhance mood, attention, and behavior to optimize the student's ability to learn and interact. Music therapists receive specialized training to address these areas by completing a baccalaureate or advanced degree program in music therapy in addition to national board certification.