Art therapists help people express difficult thoughts and feelings through creative activities. Art therapy is a form of psychotherapy that uses art media as its main mode of expression and communication.  Art therapists/art psychotherapists use art as a medium to address emotional issues which may be confusing and distressing.

You could specialise in a particular type of client such as children, the elderly or offenders. Or you could become a specialist in a particular issue such as dementia, mental health or palliative care. You could decide to become self-employed and build up a private practice. You could do this alongside employed work.

To practise as an art therapist in the UK you must be registered with the Health & Care Professions Council (HCPC). In order to register, you must successfully complete an HCPC-approved postgraduate qualification in art therapy or art psychotherapy. All UK approved courses lead to a professional qualification and eligibility to apply for registration with the HCPC and membership of the British Association of Art Therapists (BAAT). 

You'll usually need a first degree in fine art, visual arts or art and design to get a place on a postgraduate course. However, other graduates with experience of working in health, education or social care may be accepted if they have a commitment to the practice of the visual arts and personal involvement in art making. Relevant degree subjects include:

• education/teaching

• nursing

• occupational therapy

• psychology

• social work.

Degree apprenticeship

A level 7 apprenticeship for arts therapists, including art therapists/art psychotherapists, dramatherapists and music therapists is available but opportunities are currently limited. You'll need to apply for an apprentice position with a health care provider. You can search for vacancies on the NHS Jobs website and Find an Apprenticeship website.

Applicants without a degree may be accepted by some course providers if they have an equivalent professional qualification and significant relevant experience. Entry requirements vary between providers so check with them individually. For an up-to-date list of course providers, search the list of HCPC-approved education and training programmes.

Course providers require you to have experience of artistic practice and will ask to see a portfolio of recent artwork.

Full-time postgraduate courses usually take two years, with part-time courses lasting three years. As part of the training, you'll undertake personal therapy and a clinical placement.

There are a range of introductory and foundation courses available, aimed at those thinking about a career in art therapy. For details, see BAAT - Introduction and Foundation Courses.

All students are subject to a criminal records check.

You'll create a secure environment which helps people build their self awareness and self confidence.

You'll work with people of all ages - children, young people adults and the elderly. Your clients may have a range of difficulties such as emotional, behavioural or mental health problems, learning disabilities, life-limiting conditions, neurological conditions or physical illnesses. They also work in a variety of settings such as:

• NHS

• social services

• education (primary, secondary, further and special education)

• prisons

• private practice.

• You'll work one-to-one or in groups, depending on the needs of the client. In a group, you'll encourage members to relate to each other through their art and help the group work through the images and their meanings.

You may work with other professionals including medical and health care staff, teachers or prison and probation staff.