Art therapy is an effective treatment for children affected by social, emotional, or learning challenges.An art therapist can help children express themselves through various art forms.To become an art therapist for children, you will need a master's degree, supervised clinical experience, a board exam, and licensure in your state.
Step 1: You need to earn a bachelor's degree.
You must have a bachelor's degree in order to enroll in the art therapy program.The courses you take at the graduate level will likely include a foundation in psychology.You can explore studio arts as a course of study.You should take courses in drawing, painting, and sculpture so that you are familiar with all of them.Human development, family studies, and developmental psychology are some good courses to take.
Step 2: Enroll in a master's degree.
There is an art therapy program that is accredited.This information is provided by the American Art Therapy Association.60 semester credits are equal to two years of full-time education for each one.If you are not in the U.S., you can refer to the organization in your country that gives accreditation to graduate programs to find the best one near you.You can get a master's degree in counseling with an emphasis on art therapy.A counseling degree will allow you to work in traditional mental health fields while incorporating art therapy into your practice.
Step 3: There's art therapy for children.
Prepare for your professional work later by concentrating your studies on art therapy for children.If you don't have a children's specialization in your program, you can still focus on art therapy for kids.
Step 4: You have to complete a internship.
You will be required to complete a set number of hours of supervised art therapy practice in addition to the rest of the curriculum.Depending on where you live, the number of hours varies.If you need help finding a location for your internship or practicum, speak to your professors.They will know where students have excelled in the past.
Step 5: If you want to become a registered art therapist, you have to apply.
You can register for the Art Therapy Credentials Board once you've earned your master's degree and completed your internship.You will be eligible for more job opportunities if you become an ATR.Instructions on how to submit an application can be found on the ATCB website.
Step 6: There are three letters of recommendation.
Ask former professors, internship supervisors, and practicum supervisors to write letters of recommendation for your application.Someone who is a current registered art therapist should send one of the letters.
Step 7: You must take the examination.
If you pass, you will be shown that you are board certified by the ATCB and have the highest level of credentials.You must apply in September if you want to take the paper-and-pencil test in November.The online version of the test is offered four times a year.The $450 version is more expensive than the $260 paper-and-pencil test.To apply for the test, visit the ATCB website.
Step 8: You should apply at where you worked.
People who have completed their internship seek jobs at the business or clinic.If anyone you worked with has any openings, reach out to them.Since they already know your credentials and work ethic, they will keep you in mind even if they don't.
Step 9: Talk to your academic network.
Ask former professors if they know of job openings.If your college provides job placement services for graduates, you should visit the career center to see what other services they offer.
Step 10: You can apply for jobs that are posted online.
You can find job postings on Indeed.There are more specialized job boards like PsychologyJobs.com.You can find job postings on the AATA website.
Step 11: Begin your own practice.
Establish a thoughtfully designed space, maintain clinical supervision, and start seeing clients!Get the word out on social media, join insurance panels, create a professional looking website, and sign up to be listed on online services like Psychology Today.