What are professional standards in art therapy?The professional standards for training involve master's degree level work in art therapy or another related field with 24 semester hours of additional art therapy training.
Master’s level art therapy training usually lasts two to three years and includes most of the curriculum a counseling psychology program would cover, as well as a curriculum concerning the utilization of art materials in the therapeutic process. Students typically fulfill one or two practicum internships and have supervision with an art therapist, as well as with other supervisors in social services, educational, and mental health settings. Ethically art therapists go by the same standards, which any counseling professional would adhere to.
Where do art therapists work?Art Therapists work in a variety of settings, which include but are not limited to the followings (i.e. hospitals, private practice, mental health agencies and school systems) as primary therapists and/or adjunct therapists. Art Therapists are trained in developing and implementing treatment plans, providing counseling, supervision and evaluations.
What media do art therapist use?Art Therapists use a variety of media. The process of exploring and responding to diverse or specific media is a very important component to the therapeutic process. The final product is always viewed in non-judgmental ways and clients have visual progress of therapy in their artwork.
Who do art therapist work with? Kids? Adults? Disabled?People of all abilities and ages can benefit from art therapy. Clients do not require special art training or talent. The creative process can provide individuals with an alternative way to communicate feelings that may be too difficult to be put into words or that words along cannot describe.
Where can I get trained to be an art therapist?There are a variety of master level training programs in art therapy. In the United States there are approximately thirty masters level programs and 5 Doctoral. The National American Art Therapy Association (AATA) sets educational and credentialing standards for art therapy training programs and practicing professionals. Programs that are accredited have been approved by AATA. In addition, many of these programs offer a Post-Master's Certification in Art Therapy after completing an M.A. in a related field.
I'm thinking about becoming an art therapist. How can I find out more info?Contacting an Art Therapist to discuss questions regarding work and training is recommended. You can locate Washington art therapists from a link on this website on the Find A Therapist page and nation-wide on the American Art Therapy Association's webpage at http://www.arttherapy.org
Two training programs in the Pacific Northwest are one in Washington at Antioch University Seattle (http://www.AntiochSea.edu or telephone number (206)441-5352) and at Marylhurst near Portland, Oregon (http://www.Marylhurst.edu or (503) 636-9526). You might also check your local library for resources and information about Art Therapy.
Suggested Art Therapy Readings:
Special thanks to Rebecca Bloom for providing this list.
Easy to read:
1. Malchiodi, C.A. (2006). Art therapy sourcebook. New York: Guildford
2. Barber, V (2002) Explore Yourself Through Art: Creative Projects to Help You Achieve Personal Insight & Growth & Promote Problem Solving. Plume.
Advanced readings:
3. Allen, P. (2005). Art Is a Spiritual Path. Boston: Shambhala.
4. Allen, P. (1995) Art Is a Way of Knowing. Boston: Shambhala.
5. Hagood, M. (2000). Use of art in counseling child and adult survivors of sexual abuse. Philadelphia: Jessica Kingsley Publications.
6. Linesch, D. (1990). Adolescent art therapy. Taylor & Francis.
7. Shirley, S. (2001). Group process made visible: Group art therapy. Philadelphia: Brunner-Routledge.
8. Wadeson, H. (2000). Art therapy practice: Innovative approaches with diverse populations. New York: John Wiley.
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