What does an Art Therapist do?
Art Therapists help patients express themselves through physical mediums and creativity. This can be used to express a patient's feelings, cope with emotional traumas or conflicts, promote self-awareness and self-esteem, manage behaviors such as addiction, reduce anxiety, and improve their social skills. Art therapists have an extensive knowledge of different art mediums such as painting, drawing, and sculpting. In addition to this knowledge they also have experience with psychology and human development to better apply their artistic knowledge in a clinical setting.
Types of Work Environments
- Hospitals
- Psychiatric and rehabilitation facilities
- Wellness centers
- Schools
- Crisis centers
- Senior communities
- Private practices
Education and Training Requirements
Art therapists acquire a master's degree in art therapy as well as post-graduate, supervised experience. The Art Therapy Credentials Board, Inc. grants certification of art therapists on three levels:
- Registered (ATR) - granted to art therapists who have acquired their master's degree and completed their supervised, post-graduate work.
- Board Certified (ATR-BC) - granted to art therapists who complete the written examination administered by the credentials board and who continue their education through recertification.
- Certified Supervised Credential (ATCS) - offered to board certified art therapists who also demonstrate their supervision qualifications.
Salary
According to Indeed.com, the median salary for an art therapist is between $30,000 and $80,000 per year.
Professional Organization
The American Art Therapy Association
Learn More
- Explore what Art Therapy programs the Cleveland Clinic is affiliated with.
- Visit Cleveland Clinic Art Therapy page for additional information.
