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Art Therapist
Art therapists treat individuals, couples, families and groups using therapeutic art tasks. Art therapy uses art and the creative process to facilitate communication, expression of emotions, physical and cognitive skills, self-awareness, and personal growth. The art therapist maybe the primary therapist or may act as an adjunctive within the treatment team, depending on the treatment objectives and needs of the institution. The art therapist works with children and adults, including people who are emotionally disturbed, physically disabled, elderly, developmentally delayed, drug dependent, or imprisoned.
| Some responsibilities might include: |
| • | Developing art activities to erode barriers to self expression |
| • | Exploring the meaning of artistic images with the client |
The American Art Therapy Association has identified the following areas of specialization within this field:
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Addictions
Adolescents, Hospitalized
Adolescents, Psychiatric
Adults, Hospitalized
Adults, Psychiatric
Art History
Art Therapy
Art Therapy in School Children
Hospitalized Children
Psychiatric
Domestic Violence
Eating Disorders
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Families
Gerontology
Hospice
Learning Disabilities
Mental Retardation
Neurological Disease
Prisoners
Psychotherapy
Post Traumatic Stress
Rehabilitation Research
Sexual Abuse
Visual Art
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Job Outlook
Art therapy is a rapidly growing human services profession. As understanding of the field increases, the demand for art therapists will grow.
Educational Requirements
Various combinations of education and experience can lead to employment and credentialing. A bachelor's degree in art therapy, studio arts, psychology, art education, or human services can prepare individuals to pursue training in art therapy. The American Art Therapy Association (AATA) defines entry level into the profession at the master's degree level.
The AATA sets standards for professional practice and grants the title Art Therapist, Registered (ATR). This credential is not a prerequisite for employment, but demonstrates that the art therapist has completed professional requirements within the field. Graduate level training for art therapists combines creative exploration of the self, psychological theory, and art materials and processes.
For further information on requirements for obtaining ATR, contact the American Art Therapy Association, 1202 Allanson Road, Mundelein, IL 60060, (847) 949-6064 - http://www.arttherapy.org/.
Educational Programs
School of the Art Institute of Chicago
Art Education/Art Therapy Department
37 South Wabash Avenue
Chicago, IL 60603
(312) 899-7481
http://www.artic.edu/
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