Art Therapist 101

Art therapists, like other therapists or counselors, plan and/or conduct sessions/programs that aim to improve a clients' overall wellbeing. This involves utilizing the creative process and art making to facilitate positive growth in one's clients.

Art therapists can have their own therapeutic practice, as well as work in hospitals, schools and prisons. They can work with a large variety of populations, being particularly known for working with children and those with disabilities.

Should have knowledge in... - Psychology, sociology & anthropology - Therapeutic techniques - Creative practice & artistic techniques - Communication & customer service Should have skills in... - Communication & active listening - Social perceptivness - Judgment & decision making - Reading comprehension - Critical thinking Ideal traits of an art therapist... - Creative - Compassionate - Strong sense of standards - Firm in their boundaries - Always trying to learn more and improve

Every country, or every state if in the USA, will have different requirements that a therapist must meet in order to practice. To start at entry-level will require a master's degree, preferably in art therapy but can be in counseling & therapy. For Americans, in order to be certified one must also complete: 100 hours of practicum, 600 hours of clinical internship, training and or education in studio art, and successfully passed licensing exams. This will require a master's degree in art therapy at minimum. Other requirements may include passing specific exams, a successful internship, research projects, and continued education.

Pros: It is an incredibly necessary and fulfilling role that helps create positive change in the world. Cons: It is in a field of work that suffers from severe burnout and is still under appreciated in society.

As of 2022 there is a strong likelihood of positive job growth in this field. It is a career that is currently facing provider shortages, so there is a need for more art therapists working. Annually, American art therapists can make between $37k to $98k in wages. In other words they can earn between $18 to $47 an hour.