How Did Art Therapy Begin?
Even though visual expression has been a fundamental part of humanity throughout history, it was not until the 1930s that Arts Therapy emerged as a distinct profession. In the early 1900s, psychiatrists began to take notice of the art work of their patients. They saw a link between the art and the illness. At this same time, art educators were discovering that the spontaneous and free-spirited artistic expression of children represented communication, both emotional and symbolic in nature. Since then, the profession of Art Therapy has developed into an effective method of communication, assessment and treatment across many demographics.
Where Do Art Therapists Work?
Art Therapists may function as integral therapeutic team members, serve as consultants or work in private practices; they may also function as supervisors, administrators, consultants and expert witnesses. Art Therapists work in primary and adjunctive capacities with people of all ages in clinical, educational and rehabilitative settings including the following:
* Medical and psychiatric hospitals
* Out-patient facilities
* Clinics
* Hospices
* Residential treatment centers
* Halfway houses
* Shelters
* Schools
* Correctional facilities
* Elder care facilities
* Pain clinics
* Universities
* Art studios
What are the Requirements to Become an Art Therapist?
Personal Qualifications: An Art Therapist must possess sensitivity to human needs and expressions, emotional stability, patience, a capacity for insight into psychological processes and an understanding of art media. An Art Therapist must also be an attentive listener, a keen observer, and be able to develop a rapport with people. Flexibility and a sense of humor are important in adapting to changing circumstances, frustration and disappointment.
Educational Requirements: The AATA Education Standards has outlined a required core curriculum that must be completed in order to qualify as a professional Art Therapist. Art Therapy studies are conducted at the graduate level. Program options include:
* Master's degree in Art Therapy
* Master's degree with an emphasis in Art Therapy
* Master's degree in a related field and twenty-one semester units post master's in Art Therapy
Registration and Board Certification Requirements: In addition to the educational requirements, those pursuing status as a Registered Art Therapist (ATR) must complete a minimum of 1,000 direct client contact hours using Art Therapy. Every one hour per ten hours must be supervised by a credentialed therapist, with a minimum of 500 hours supervised by an ATR. The ATR and ATR-BC are the recognized standards for the field of Art Therapy and are conferred by the ATCB (Art Therapy Credentials Board.)
What is the Employment Outlook for the Profession of Art Therapy?
Art Therapy is a growing field. Recently, Art Therapy was noted as one of the Top Ten Jobs by Hot Jobs for 2007; see the link for more information.
(http://jobs.aol.com/article/_a/10-hot-jobs-for-2007/20060822125209990005) Employment continues to increase as it becomes recognized by professionals and clients. Graduates of Art Therapy programs are successful at finding employment in both full and part-time positions. Those with ATR and ATR-BC have a distinct advantage as it is the recognized credential of AATA.
Art Therapists earn different amounts depending on their location, type of practice and job responsibilities. Income ranges from approximately $25,000 for entry level to between $40,000 and $60,000 for salaried administrators. Earning potential can reach $75.00 to $90.00 per hour for therapists who obtain doctoral degrees, state licensure, or who qualify in their state to conduct private practice.
State requirements for private practice vary across the country. Practice rules and regulations are available from state licensing boards.
How Do I Find a Job in Art Therapy?
Professional journals and local newspapers may list positions available. Art Therapists are hired under multiple titles including counselor, therapist, caseworker, activity therapist, rehabilitation therapist, social worker and art therapist/teacher. There are several resources available to an Art Therapist seeking employment including college placement offices, contacts formed during internship placements, memberships in AATA and state affiliate chapters, newsletters, job hotlines and websites. Probably the most effective way Art Therapists find jobs is through networking with professional peers often met through membership in local professional chapters such as NCATA. Art Therapists often write grants to get Art Therapy programs funded at the institution of their choice thus paving the way for future Art Therapists.
How Do I Make a Donation to the Legislative Affairs Fund (LAF)?
Because of NorCTA's 501(c)3 status, and because we're not a 501(c)6 organization, we have to keep any monies that are used for legislative, lobbying, or advocacy separate from the general account. We have a separate LAF checking account that is monitored by a NorCATA member and former board member. Therefore, please send donations to the Northern California American Art Therapy Association post office box.
Please make checks payable to the Legislative Affairs Fund (LAF).
PO Box 642593
San Francisco, CA
94164-2593
How Do I Become a Member of the Northern California Art Therapy Association?
We are currently renewing memberships for NorCATA! Our membership year runs from January 1st to December 31st. Members can now register online. Please visit our Membership page and follow instructions to renew your membership or become a new member of NorCATA.
NorCATA publications, soon to be available online, include the informative quarterly newsletter, all special program and workshop announcements, and the annual Membership Directory.
Copyright 2009 NorCATA: California Art Therapy. All Rights Reserved.
Frequently Asked Questions
Northern California Art Therapy Association
