Frequently Asked Questions
What is Art Therapy?
Art therapy is a human service
profession which utilizes art media, images, and the creative art
process and patient/client responses to the created art productions
as reflections of an individual's development, abilities,
personality, interests, concerns, and conflicts. Art therapy
practice is based on knowledge of human developmental and
psychological theories which are implemented in the full spectrum of
models of assessment and treatment including educational,
psychodynamic, cognitive, transpersonal, and other therapeutic means
of reconciling emotional conflicts, fostering self-awareness,
developing social skills, managing behavior, solving problems,
reducing anxiety, aiding reality orientation, and increasing
self-esteem.
Art therapy is an effective treatment for the developmentally,
medically, educationally, socially or psychologically impaired; and
is practiced in mental health, rehabilitation, medical, educational,
and forensic institutions. Populations of all ages, races, and
ethnic backgrounds are served by art therapists in individual,
couples, family, and group therapy formats.
Educational, professional, and ethical standards for art therapists
are regulated by the American Art Therapy Association, Inc. (AATA).
The Art Therapy Credentials Board, Inc. (ATCB), an independent
organization, grants postgraduate registration (ATR) after reviewing
documentation of completion of graduate education and postgraduate
supervised experience.
Board Certification (ATR-BC) is granted following examination
demonstrating professional competence.
What
training do art therapists have?
The American Art Therapy Association outlines educational standards to qualify as a professional art therapist. Entry into the profession is at the master’s degree level. Currently educational requirements include a Master’s degree in Art Therapy, a Masters degree with an emphasis in Art Therapy, or a Master’s degree in a related field and 21 semester units post master’s in Art Therapy.
What do
the initials “ATR” and “BC” mean?
Registration (ATR) and Board Certification (BC) are the recognized standards for the field of art therapy and are conferred by the Art Therapy Credentials Board (ATCB). In addition to the educational requirements, to qualify as a registered art therapist, an individual must complete a minimum of 1,000 supervised direct client hours using art therapy. To qualify as a Board Certified art therapist, an individual must successfully complete the written exam administered by the ATCB. Board Certification requires maintenance through continuing education credits.
Do I
need to be an artist to benefit from art therapy?
Artistic ability is not needed to benefit from
art therapy. Art
therapists focus on the process of creating art, although the
finished product is also important piece of the therapeutic
experience. Art
therapists are familiar with many types of art media and are able to
support client’s efforts to express themselves through diverse forms
of media.
Is art
therapy just for children?
All ages and all diagnostic categories can benefit from art therapy.