Benefits of Art Therapy
Art Therapy is a proven, clinical process that uses the arts, such as painting, drawing, and sculpture, in order to help individuals cope with the problems and stresses of life. Issues that are often helped with art therapy include but are not limited to depression, abuse, addictions, and social and emotional difficulties. Art therapists and advocates belief that art as self-expression enables individuals to better verbally and nonverbally express themselves, become more self-aware and aware of others and achieve higher levels of self-esteem.
History of Art Therapy
Since the 1940s art therapists have flourished as a profession. This is due in part to the discovery of how beneficially art therapy was to mentally ill adults and children. Since that time a number of art therapists have been enlisted to help individuals, often working with nurses, doctors and other health care providers to fully assist children, teens and adults.
How to Become an Art Therapist
A master's degree in art therapy or a similar program along with art therapy coursework is required for those interesting in pursuing this vocation. Once a degree is earned an individual must pass a written examination offered by the Art Therapy Credentials Board (ATCB) as well as complete at least 1,000 hours with clients. An art therapist can also join a professional organization, such as the American Art Therapy Association, to further their knowledge and learn about national and regional art therapy events.
Where do Art Therapists Practice?
Today art therapists can be found throughout the United States in a number of different facilities including hospitals, schools, nursing homes, drug treatment centers and homeless shelters. Some also offer private sessions in home studios.
No matter where an art therapist chooses to practice though, they can greatly benefit society with their creative arts knowledge and care. State associations, including the Missouri Art Therapy Association, the Buckeye Art Therapy Association and the Northern California Art Therapy Association offer continuing education, advocacy, outreach and additional information for practicing professional and those interested in learning more about how art therapy aids individuals.