Art Therapist Careers

Art therapy is an expressive therapy used in the treatment of mental disorders. Art therapists are licensed professionals that provide art therapy services.

History

• Techniques of art therapy have been used throughout history. However, art therapy did not become a separate profession until the 1940s. Since then, the number of job opportunities and educational programs have grown significantly.

Employment

• Art therapists are employed in hospitals, mental health facilities, private practice, and schools. University teaching and research is another option that is available for art therapists with a doctoral degree.

Education

• Undergraduate education in art therapy focuses on psychology and studio art coursework. Pursing a master's degree is necessary for licensure and typically requires completing coursework in theory, practice on micro and macro levels, and practicum experience.

Licensure

• A registered art therapist must complete at least a master's degree in an educational program approved by the American Art Therapy Association, 700 hours of practicum experience which includes 350 hours with direct client contact, 1000 hours of post-graduate experience, three references, and other specific requirements. Check with your state government for other licensure requirements.

Resources

• The American Art Therapy Association (www.americanarttherapyassociation.org) and Art Therapy Credentials Board (www.atcb.org) provide important information regarding the profession of art therapy and requirements for becoming an art therapist.