about art therapy





Art is powerful. Imagry is fundamental to inner life and thought. Art Therapy safely provides a means of metaphoric and symbolic expression and healing. Art Therapy is not about being a good artist but about the process of creative expression. In Art Therapy, we use simple art materials to foster healthy communication and expression, promote the integration of physical, emotional, cognitive and social functioning, enhance self-esteem, and promote change. Art therapy bridges: verbal & non-verbal, internal & external, visible & invisible, body & mind, therapist & individual, individual & others.

Requirements established by American Art Therapy Association (AATA). Undergraduate degree w/ at least 15 semester credits in studio art and twelve credits in psychology. Master Degree in Art Therapy from a rpogram approved by AATA which offers training in a combination of art & psychology including: psychopathology, counseling skills, systems of psychotherapy, evaluation and treatments with childresn, adolescents, adults, and families, multi-cultural awareness, clinical internships supervised by Registered Art Therapists (A.T.R.) Post Graduate competency is recognized by the Art Therapy Credentials Board, Inc., an independent credentialing board. Art Therapist Registered (A.T.R.) is designated upon completion of 1,000 hours of supervised direct client service beyong the master’s level. Board Certification (A.T.R.-B.C.) is granted to Registered Art Therapists who successfully pass the Board examination. Licensing of Registered Art Therapists, of LPC’s, MHC’s, CAC’s, and LAT’s (Licensed Art Therapists) is occurring in an increasing number of states.

As primary therapists and as part of a treatment team, Art Therapists work in rehabilitation centers, group homes, hospitals, out-patient facilities, community centers, geriatric facilities, corporations and schools. We are skilled in planning an implementing Art Therapy treatment plans, counseling, interviewing, supervising, and writing reports for individuals, groups, and families.

The Art Therapist is a specialist trained in providing a unique perspective of the world we live in. He or She understands and uses symbolic language apparent in works of art as a alternative means of communication and expression. The Art Therapist also has access to information otherwise difficult to find, and is therefore is able to use appropriate materials as "visual empathy".