What is Art Therapy?

Art therapy is a human service profession which utilizes art media, images, the creative art process and patient/client responses to the created art productions as reflections of an individual's development, abilities, personality, interests, concerns, and conflicts. Art therapy practice is based on knowledge of human developmental and psychological theories which are implemented in the full spectrum of models of assessment and treatment including educational, psychodynamic, cognitive, transpersonal, and other therapeutic means of reconciling emotional conflicts, fostering self-awareness, developing social skills, managing behavior, solving problems, reducing anxiety, aiding reality orientation, and increasing self-esteem.

What Do Art Therapists Do?

Art therapists assist individuals in creative expression and encourage their clients to reflect on their art products and the creative process to increase awareness of self and others; cope with symptoms, stress, and traumatic experiences; enhance cognitive abilities; and enjoy the life-affirming pleasures of making art.

Art therapists are professionals trained in both art and therapy and hold a masters degree in art therapy or a related field. Art therapists work with individuals of all ages, races, and ethnic backgrounds who have developmental, medical, or psychological impairments, and provide services to individuals, couples, families, groups, and communities. Art therapists are skilled in the application of a variety of art modalities (drawing, painting, clay, and other mediums) for treatment and assessment and conduct research as well as provide consultations to allied professionals.

Where Do Art Therapists Work?

Art therapists work in the following settings:

• hospitals—both medical and psychiatric
• out-patient facilities
• clinics
• residential treatment centers
• halfway houses
• shelters
• schools
• correctional facilities
• forensic settings
• elder care facilities
• pain clinics
• universities
• art studios

The art therapist may work as part of a team which includes physicians, psychologists, nurses, rehabilitation counselors, social workers, and teachers. Together, they determine and implement a client's therapeutic, school, or mental health program. Art therapists also work as primary therapists in private practice.

What are the Requirements to Become an Art Therapist?

Personal Qualifications: An art therapist must have sensitivity to human needs and expressions, emotional stability, patience, a capacity for insight into psychological processes, and an understanding of art media. An art therapist must also be an attentive listener, a keen observer, and be able to develop a rapport with people. Flexibility and a sense of humor are also important qualities.

Educational Requirements: One must complete the required core curriculum as outlined in the AATA Education Standards to qualify as a professional art therapist. Entry into the profession of art therapy is at the master's level. Avenues of completion offered by graduate level art therapy programs include:

• a Master's degree in art therapy
• a Master's degree with an emphasis in art therapy
• twenty-one (24) semester units in art therapy with a Master's degree in a related field

What Professional Credential Is Required To Practice Art Therapy?

The American Art Therapy Association, Inc. (AATA) sets educational, professional, and ethical standards for its members. The Art Therapy Credentials Board, Inc. (ATCB), an independent organization, grants credentials. Registration (ATR) is granted upon completion of graduate education and post-graduate supervised experience. Board Certification (ATR-BC) is granted to Registered Art Therapists who pass a written examination, and is maintained through continuing education. Some states regulate the practice of art therapy and in many states art therapists can become licensed as counselors or mental health therapists.

What is the Employment Outlook for the Profession of Art Therapy?