ART THERAPY
Art therapy is a human service
profession whereby art therapists use art media, artistic talent and health
skills to reflect an individual's personality, concerns, interests, development,
abilities and mental state of mind. Painting, drawing or modeling are examples
of art used by this profession. Art therapy is used to deal with emotional
conflicts as well as develop social skills, self-awareness, behavior management,
problem solving skills and increase self-esteem. Art therapists work with
mentally and emotionally disturbed persons as well as those who are mentally
handicapped or have a physical or mental disability.
Education
Entrance into the field of art
therapy at the professional level requires a masters degree or graduate
level certificate training from an institute or clinical program.
Registration/Certification/Licensure
Registration is granted by the
Art Therapy Credentials Board to individuals who have obtained a masters
degree from a program approved by the American Art Therapy Association
or specialization in art therapy and completed postgraduate art therapy
experience. Board certification is given to the Registered Art Therapist
who passes an examination given by the Art Therapy Credentials Board.
Salary
$19,000-33,500
Employment Opportunities
Art therapists may work in psychiatric
hospitals and clinics, nursing homes, halfway houses, prisons, public schools,
private schools, institutions for persons with handicapped conditions,
acute care hospitals and drug and alcohol clinics. There are many creative
options in the art therapy field.
Programs
Professional Association
The
American Art Therapy Association, Inc.
1202 Allanson Road
Mundelein, IL 60060-3803
(888) 290-0878
Last updated: January 29, 2003