How To Become a Art Therapist Complete Guide | SkillsAndTech
So, you want to be an art therapist? Here’s what you need to know. The field of art therapy is one that is growing in popularity, as it is a unique and effective way to help people deal with a wide variety of issues. As an art therapist, you will use art to help your clients express themselves and explore their emotions.
If you’re interested in becoming an art therapist, there are a few things you need to know. This guide will cover everything from what art therapists do to how to get certified. Keep reading to learn more about this rewarding career.
Table of Contents
Steps For How To Become a Art Therapist
Becoming an art therapist requires completing a few specific steps. Here is a guide on how to become an art therapist:
1. Get a degree in art therapy
You can get a bachelor’s or master’s degree in art therapy from a variety of colleges and universities. During your studies, you’ll take classes in psychology, counseling, studio art, and liberal arts.
2. Complete an internship
Most degree programs include an internship as part of the curriculum. This gives you the chance to gain experience working with clients under the supervision of a licensed professional.
3. Pass the Art Therapy Credentials Board (ATCB) exam
After you graduate, you’ll need to pass the ATCB exam to become a Registered Art Therapist (ATR). The exam covers topics such as ethics, assessment, and treatment planning.
4. Start working
Once you become an ATR, you can begin working as an art therapist in a variety of settings, including hospitals, schools, mental health centers, and private practice.
Educational Requirements To Become a Art Therapist
To become an art therapist, you will need at least a master’s degree in art therapy from an accredited institution. Many art therapists also have a background in psychology, counseling, or social work.
Most states require licensure for counselors and therapists, and some states specifically license art therapists. To become licensed, you will need to complete a supervised clinical internship and pass a state-recognized exam.
Job Description of Art Therapist
An art therapist is a professional who uses art to help people heal emotionally and mentally. Art therapists are trained in both psychology and art, and use their skills to help people dealing with mental illness, trauma, or other issues.
Art therapy can be used to help people express themselves when they cannot find the words to express their feelings. It can also be used to help people work through their emotions, process traumas, and gain insight into themselves. Art therapists often work with clients one-on-one, but may also work with groups.
If you are interested in becoming an art therapist, you will need to complete a bachelor’s degree in art therapy or a related field. Many art therapists also have a master’s degree in art therapy or a related field. After completing your education, you will need to obtain certification from the American Art Therapy Association.
Art Therapist Career and Salary
An art therapist career is a great way to help people heal emotionally and mentally. It can be a very rewarding profession, both personally and financially. The average salary for an art therapist is $50,000 per year.
Becoming an art therapist requires completing a bachelor’s or master’s degree in art therapy from an accredited institution. Many states also require licensure or certification. Once you have completed your education and training, you will be ready to begin working with clients in settings such as hospitals, clinics, rehabilitation centers, and private practices.
Art therapists use the creative process of making art to help people explore their emotions and improve their mental health. They work with individuals of all ages who are dealing with a variety of issues, such as anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and addiction. Art therapy can be an effective treatment for people who are not responding well to other forms of therapy.
If you are interested in helping people heal through art, then a career in art therapy may be the right choice for you. With the right education and training, you can become a licensed art therapist and start making a difference in the lives of others.
Benefits of Successful Art Therapist
Art therapists can work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, schools, mental health facilities, and private practices. They often collaborate with other professionals, such as psychologists, social workers, and physicians.
Art therapists help people of all ages to improve their cognitive and motor skills, manage stress, explore their emotions, and achieve personal insight. The benefits of successful art therapy are many.
Some of the benefits of successful art therapy include:
1. Improving cognitive skills
Art therapy can help improve attention span, memory, problem-solving skills, and executive functioning skills.
2. Managing stress
Art therapy can help reduce stress levels and promote relaxation. It can also help people cope with difficult life events.
3. Exploring emotions
Art therapy can provide a safe space for people to express their emotions. It can also help people to understand and process their emotions better.
4. Achieving personal insight
Art therapy can help people gain insights into themselves and their relationships with others. It can also help people learn more about their strengths and weaknesses
What Skills Are Art Therapist Needed
An art therapist is a professional who uses art as a means of therapy. Art therapists are trained in both art and psychology, and use their knowledge to help people heal emotionally and mentally.
There are many different skills that an art therapist needs in order to be successful. First and foremost, they must be excellent at communication. They need to be able to build trust with their clients, and must be good at active listening.
They must also have a deep understanding of the therapeutic process. They need to know how to create an effective treatment plan, and how to adapt it to meet the individual needs of each client.
Art therapists also need strong organizational skills. They often work with multiple clients at a time, and must keep track of each client’s progress. They need to be able to juggle multiple tasks, and prioritize their time effectively.
Last but not least, art therapists need to have a passion for helping others. This job can be emotionally demanding, and it is important that they have a genuine desire to help people heal.
Reasons of Why becoming a Art Therapist
There are many reasons why someone might want to become an art therapist. Here are just a few:
1. Helping others through art is incredibly rewarding.
2. You get to help people heal in a unique and powerful way.
3. Art therapy is a growing field with plenty of opportunities for advancement.
4. You can work in a variety of settings, such as hospitals, schools, or private practices.
5. You get to combine your love of art with your desire to help others.
Conclusion
If you’re passionate about art and helping others, a career as an art therapist may be perfect for you. Though it takes some time and effort to become an art therapist, the rewards can be great. With our complete guide, you’ll have all the information you need to get started on your path to becoming an art therapist.
FAQ (Frequently Asked Question)
What does a Art Therapist do ?
Art therapists are healers who use art to help people with physical, mental, and emotional problems. As an art therapist, you will use your knowledge of art and psychology to help people express themselves and improve their well-being.
You will work with patients of all ages, from children to adults. You will also work with people who have a wide range of problems, including anxiety, depression, trauma, and chronic health conditions.
Art therapists typically work in hospitals, clinics, and private practices. They may also work in schools, nursing homes, or other community settings.
As an art therapist, you will need to be able to understand and empathize with your patients. You will also need to be patient and creative. If you are interested in helping people heal through art, then a career as an art therapist may be for you.
How much do Art Therapist make ?
Art therapists are mental health professionals who use art as a form of therapy. They work with individuals of all ages, from children to adults, and help them to express themselves through art. Art therapists typically have a master’s degree in art therapy or a related field.
How much do art therapists make? According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for art therapists was $47,560 in May 2019. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $31,790, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $79,540.
How much does it cost to be a Art Therapist ?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the cost of becoming a art therapist can vary depending on factors such as where you study, how long you study for and whether you choose to study full- or part-time. However, we have provided an estimated breakdown of the typical costs associated with becoming a art therapist below.
- Tuition fees: $5,000 – $20,000
- Course materials: $500 – $1,000
- Living costs: $10,000 – $20,000 (depending on location and lifestyle)
- Total estimated cost: $15,500 – $41,000
How long does it take to become a Art Therapist ?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the length of time it takes to become a art therapist can vary depending on a number of factors. However, in general, it takes several years of education and training to become a qualified art therapist.
After completing a bachelor’s degree in art therapy or a related field, individuals must complete an accredited master’s level art therapy program. Upon completion of the program, individuals must then pass the Art Therapy Registered Board Certification Exam in order to become a Registered Art Therapist (ATR).
The length of time it takes to complete all of the necessary education and training can vary depending on the individual’s schedule and whether they attend school full-time or part-time. In general, however, it typically takes between four and six years to become a fully qualified art therapist.
How many hours of Art Therapist Work ?
Most art therapists work full time, though some may have part-time or weekend positions. Typically, they work in settings such as hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, and schools. Some may also work in private practice.
Art therapists typically work with clients of all ages. They may see individuals, families, or groups. Sessions may last for 30 minutes to an hour or more, depending on the needs of the client.