How to Become a Creative Arts Therapist (Turn Art into Action!)
If you’ve ever felt inspired to use artistic expression to foster healing and mental well-being, or wondered how to become a Creative Arts Therapist, you’re in the right place.
In this guide, we’ll outline the EXACT steps you need to follow to launch your career as a Creative Arts Therapist. We’ll discuss:
- The skills you need.
- The education and training required.
- How to secure a job as a Creative Arts Therapist.
So, whether you’re an art enthusiast interested in mental health, or a helping professional looking to expand your therapeutic toolkit, stay tuned.
We’re about to unfold the path to becoming a Creative Arts Therapist.
Let’s embark on this journey!
Steps to Become a Creative Arts Therapist
Step 1: Understand the Role of a Creative Arts Therapist
Before pursuing a career as a Creative Arts Therapist, it’s essential to understand the role and responsibilities attached to this job.
Creative Arts Therapists use the arts, such as music, dance, drama, and visual arts, to help individuals express themselves and explore their feelings.
This therapeutic approach can be used to support mental health, personal growth, and improve emotional, cognitive, and physical well-being.
As a Creative Arts Therapist, your clients could range from children to adults dealing with various issues such as mental health disorders, trauma, physical disabilities, and more.
You might work in diverse settings, such as hospitals, rehabilitation centers, schools, or private practice.
The job requires empathy, creativity, and the ability to adapt your approach to meet the needs of different clients.
Understanding the depth and breadth of this role will help you determine if this is the right career path for you and what specific areas within creative arts therapy you might wish to focus on.
It’s also crucial to understand that this profession requires continuous learning and staying updated with new therapeutic approaches and research in the field.
Step 2: Obtain a Bachelor’s Degree
To become a Creative Arts Therapist, the first step after high school is to obtain a Bachelor’s degree.
This degree should ideally be in a field related to the arts or psychology, such as fine arts, drama, dance, music, or psychology.
However, many creative arts therapists also come from varied educational backgrounds.
During your Bachelor’s program, aim to take courses that help you understand human behavior, emotions, and mental health.
This could include classes in psychology, sociology, anthropology, and even biology.
It’s also important to engage with the creative arts.
Take courses in music, visual arts, drama, dance, or other forms of artistic expression.
These courses will not only help you develop your artistic skills, but also understand how art can be used as a therapeutic tool.
Additionally, try to gain practical experience by volunteering or interning at mental health centers, schools, hospitals, or community organizations where art therapy is used.
This will give you a firsthand view of the profession and help you decide if it’s the right path for you.
Remember, becoming a Creative Arts Therapist is not just about having artistic talent, but also about understanding how to use art to facilitate communication, manage stress, and promote psychological healing.
Step 3: Gain Exposure to the Field
Before diving in fully, it’s important to get a real-world understanding of what being a Creative Arts Therapist entails.
This can be achieved by volunteering or interning at hospitals, rehab centers, schools, or community centers that offer creative arts therapy services.
This allows you to observe experienced therapists and see how they interact with different populations and age groups.
You could also attend workshops, seminars, and conferences related to creative arts therapy.
This not only provides valuable insight into the profession but also helps you to network with professionals in the field.
Another way to gain exposure is by conducting informational interviews with practicing creative arts therapists.
They can share firsthand experiences, discuss the challenges and rewards of the field, and provide advice on how to progress in your career.
Gaining exposure to the field also helps you to decide which type of creative arts therapy you’re most interested in, whether it’s art therapy, music therapy, dance/movement therapy, drama therapy, or a combination.
This can be crucial when choosing your graduate program and eventual career path.
Step 4: Earn a Master’s Degree in Creative Arts Therapy
After obtaining your bachelor’s degree, the next major step towards becoming a Creative Arts Therapist is to pursue a Master’s degree in Creative Arts Therapy or a related field like Counseling, Psychology or Social Work with a concentration in Art Therapy.
This degree generally takes two to three years to complete.
In a Master’s program, you will delve deeper into the therapeutic use of creative expression.
You will study topics such as human development, psychological theory, counseling techniques, art therapy methods, and ethical practice.
The curriculum often includes courses on methods of working with different age groups, as well as with individuals who have specific mental health issues.
During your Master’s program, you will also undertake supervised internships or clinical practice, where you will gain hands-on experience in using art as a form of therapy under the guidance of a licensed professional.
This gives you the opportunity to apply what you’ve learned in your coursework in a real-world setting.
Depending on your career goals, you may want to focus your studies on a specific area of art therapy, such as dance/movement, drama, music, or visual arts therapy.
You can choose a program that aligns with your area of interest.
Remember to ensure that the Master’s program you choose is accredited by a recognized body such as the American Art Therapy Association.
This is important as most states require you to graduate from an approved program to be eligible for licensure.
Step 5: Complete Supervised Clinical Experience
After your studies, it’s essential to complete a period of supervised clinical experience, typically two years or 1,000 hours, depending on the requirements of your specific licensure.
This hands-on experience is a crucial step in becoming a Creative Arts Therapist as it allows you to apply the theories and techniques you’ve learned in an actual therapeutic setting.
During this phase, you’ll work closely with a licensed professional who will guide you, offer feedback, and help you hone your therapeutic skills.
You may work with different patient populations, from children to adults, and encounter a variety of mental health issues, such as trauma, anxiety, or depression.
This supervised clinical experience will not only refine your therapeutic skills but also deepen your understanding of the healing power of art.
It will expose you to different therapeutic methods and enhance your ability to adapt your approach to suit the needs of each individual client.
This step is essential for becoming a well-rounded, competent, and compassionate Creative Arts Therapist.
Step 6: Obtain Certification or Licensure
In order to practice as a Creative Arts Therapist, it is usually required to obtain a certification or license.
This signifies that you have met the education, experience, and examination requirements needed for professional practice.
The specific requirements can vary by state and country, so it is essential to research the guidelines of the region where you plan to work.
In the US, the most recognized certification body is the American Art Therapy Association (AATA).
They offer a Board Certification in Art Therapy (ATR-BC), which is the highest level of certification within the field.
This requires a master’s degree in art therapy or a related field, a minimum of 1000 hours of direct client contact post-graduation, and successful completion of a certification exam.
Additionally, some states require licensure to legally use the title of a Licensed Creative Arts Therapist (LCAT).
This typically involves meeting additional educational and experiential requirements, and passing a state licensure examination.
Once you have your certification or licensure, you will need to maintain it through continuing education and professional development.
This ensures that you stay updated with the latest research and practices in the field, and can provide the best care for your clients.
Step 7: Develop a Specialty
As you continue your education and gain more experience in the field, it’s crucial to develop a specialty within creative arts therapy.
You may choose to specialize in a certain type of therapy such as art, music, dance, drama, or even poetry therapy.
Your specialty should align with your interests and skills.
For instance, if you have a background in dance and find it a powerful medium for self-expression, you might choose dance therapy as your specialty.
If you enjoy painting and believe in its therapeutic effects, art therapy might be the ideal path for you.
Your decision might also be influenced by the type of clients you wish to work with.
For instance, if you are drawn towards helping children, you might want to specialize in a type of therapy that is particularly effective for kids.
On the other hand, if you are interested in helping adults manage their stress and anxiety, you might choose a different specialty.
Once you have selected your specialty, try to gain as much experience as possible in that area.
This may involve seeking internships or employment opportunities that align with your specialty, attending workshops and seminars, or completing additional training or certification programs.
This specialized knowledge and experience will make you more competitive in the job market and help you provide the best care to your clients.
Step 8: Secure a Practicum or Internship
Securing a practicum or internship is a crucial step in becoming a Creative Arts Therapist.
This experience can provide you with the opportunity to apply the theoretical knowledge you have gained in your academic studies to practical, real-world settings.
Internships or practicums typically take place in settings such as hospitals, schools, rehabilitation centers, mental health clinics, or other community settings.
You will likely work under the supervision of a licensed Creative Arts Therapist, which provides you with the opportunity to learn from a professional and receive guidance and feedback.
You might work with a range of populations, including children, adolescents, adults, and the elderly who are dealing with various mental health, physical, and emotional issues.
This hands-on experience is invaluable in not only improving your therapeutic skills but also giving you a sense of the day-to-day responsibilities of a Creative Arts Therapist.
It also provides a chance to learn more about the administrative and procedural aspects of the role.
Remember that the goal of this step is not just to fulfill a graduation requirement, but to acquire the necessary clinical experience required for licensure.
Therefore, choose your practicum or internship placement carefully, ensuring that it aligns with your future career goals in the field of Creative Arts Therapy.
Step 9: Stay Informed on Research and Best Practices
In the field of creative arts therapy, it’s crucial to stay updated on the latest research findings and best practices in the field.
This may include understanding the efficacy of various therapeutic methods, learning about new techniques, and being aware of the latest advancements in mental health care.
Continuing education can take many forms, such as attending workshops, conferences, and seminars; enrolling in relevant postgraduate courses; reading journals and books; or subscribing to professional newsletters.
It’s also a good idea to join professional associations, where you can network with other professionals, engage in discussions, and participate in training sessions.
Being informed not only ensures that your therapeutic methods are effective and ethical, but it also provides opportunities for professional growth and contributes to the overall development of the field.
It may also help you in maintaining your licensure, as many professional bodies require regular continuing education credits.
Remember, the learning doesn’t stop once you’ve become a creative arts therapist.
The field is continually evolving, and it’s important to stay engaged and informed to provide the best possible care to your clients.
Step 10: Apply for Jobs or Start a Private Practice
Once you’ve completed your education, gained experience through internships, and obtained your license, you’re ready to start applying for jobs as a Creative Arts Therapist.
You can look for opportunities in various settings such as hospitals, rehabilitation centers, schools, or community organizations.
When applying, it’s important to tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your experience and skills in creative arts therapy, emphasizing on how you used art-based activities in therapeutic contexts.
Consider joining professional associations like the American Art Therapy Association or the National Association for Drama Therapy.
These organizations often have job boards and can provide networking opportunities.
Alternatively, you may decide to start a private practice.
Doing so will require a solid understanding of business operations, including marketing your services, billing clients, and maintaining records.
You may want to seek out additional training or mentorship to help you navigate the business aspects of running a private practice.
It’s also important to consider your local market needs and whether there’s a demand for your services.
Regardless of whether you choose to work for an organization or start your own practice, remember that building a career takes time.
It’s important to stay patient, continuously learn, and stay passionate about using art to help others.
Step 11: Continue Professional Development
As a Creative Arts Therapist, it’s crucial to continue your professional development throughout your career.
This can be achieved through various forms of professional learning and growth opportunities such as attending workshops, conferences, and seminars focused on creative arts therapy.
These events often feature presentations from industry leaders, providing insights into the latest research, methods, and techniques in the field.
In addition to attending industry events, you may also wish to pursue further education.
This could include obtaining additional certifications in specific therapeutic techniques or even pursuing a doctoral degree in creative arts therapy or a related field.
Joining professional organizations, such as the American Art Therapy Association or the National Coalition of Creative Arts Therapies Associations, can also enhance your professional development.
These organizations often offer resources for continuous learning, networking opportunities, and career advancement resources.
Lastly, keep up with the latest research and literature in your field.
Read therapy journals, participate in webinars, and join online forums where you can engage in discussions with other professionals.
This continuous learning will not only improve your skills but also keep you abreast of the latest trends and developments in creative arts therapy.
Remember, the field of creative arts therapy is ever-evolving and staying updated ensures you continue to provide the best support and care to your clients.
Step 12: Join Professional Associations
Joining professional associations is a significant step for a Creative Arts Therapist, as it allows them to stay updated with industry trends, access resources, and network with other professionals in the field.
Some of the notable associations include the American Art Therapy Association (AATA), North American Drama Therapy Association (NADTA), the American Music Therapy Association (AMTA), and the American Dance Therapy Association (ADTA).
These organizations offer professional development opportunities, conferences, workshops, and publications that can enhance your skills and knowledge as a Creative Arts Therapist.
Being part of these associations also means that you can gain access to job boards and a community of experienced professionals who can provide advice and guidance.
They also emphasize the importance of adhering to a code of ethics and maintaining high standards of practice in this field.
Furthermore, becoming a member of these professional associations can lend more credibility to your practice, as clients, employers, and colleagues often regard association membership as a sign of commitment to the field and dedication to continuous learning.
Joining these associations often require a membership fee and sometimes proof of credentials and licensing.
However, the benefits these associations provide often outweigh their costs.
Creative Arts Therapist Roles and Responsibilities
Creative Arts Therapists use their knowledge of the arts and psychology to develop therapies that help individuals express themselves and improve their mental, emotional and physical health.
They have the following roles and responsibilities:
Therapy Planning
- Develop and implement individualized therapy plans based on the needs of each client.
- Utilize art forms such as drama, visual arts, music, dance and movement to facilitate therapy.
- Adjust therapy plans as required, considering progress and feedback.
Therapy Sessions
- Conduct individual and group therapy sessions.
- Create a safe, respectful, and comfortable environment for clients to express themselves.
- Encourage clients to explore their emotions, experiences, and self-concept through creative activities.
Assessment
- Evaluate clients’ response to therapy, observing changes in behavior, skills, attitudes, and emotions.
- Use standardized tests and tools to measure therapy outcomes.
- Identify areas for improvement and adjust therapy plans accordingly.
Record Keeping and Reporting
- Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of therapy sessions.
- Prepare progress reports for clients, families, or other professionals involved in client care.
- Respect confidentiality and privacy regulations when handling client information.
Collaboration
- Work closely with a multidisciplinary team including psychologists, social workers, occupational therapists, and healthcare professionals.
- Refer clients to other services as needed.
Education and Advocacy
- Conduct workshops or seminars to educate others about the benefits of creative arts therapy.
- Advocate for the use of creative arts therapies in healthcare settings.
Research
- Stay updated on the latest research and developments in the field of creative arts therapy.
- Conduct or participate in research studies to contribute to the evidence base of creative arts therapy.
Professional Development
- Participate in continuing education to maintain and improve skills and knowledge.
- Seek supervision and feedback to improve therapy practice.
- Follow professional standards and ethics in therapy practice.
What Does a Creative Arts Therapist Do?
Creative Arts Therapists use different types of art forms to help clients express their emotions and improve their mental health.
They may work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, rehabilitation centers, schools, private practices, and community centers, helping a wide array of people ranging from children to the elderly, and people with disabilities to those with mental health problems.
Creative Arts Therapists often work with other healthcare professionals, such as psychologists, occupational therapists, and social workers, to provide a comprehensive approach to treatment.
Their work involves creating tailored therapy sessions that involve activities like drawing, painting, sculpting, dancing, music or drama.
Through these activities, they encourage clients to express their feelings, which can help them cope with stress, trauma, or illness.
They observe their clients during these activities and use their artistic creations and interactions to assess their emotional well-being, develop treatment plans and set therapeutic goals.
Creative Arts Therapists also play a crucial role in providing guidance and emotional support, teaching coping mechanisms, and fostering personal growth and self-esteem in their clients.
Essential Creative Arts Therapist Skills
- Communication: A creative arts therapist must be able to effectively communicate with clients to understand their feelings and emotions, and to explain how the therapy process will work.
- Empathy: To work as a creative arts therapist, empathy is essential. They need to understand and share the feelings of others, helping them express themselves through art.
- Creativity: As the role implies, creativity is a key component. Therapists use various art forms, such as painting, dancing, or music, and need to come up with innovative ways to engage their clients and facilitate the healing process.
- Artistic Skills: Depending on the specialization, a creative arts therapist might need to have skills in specific art forms, such as visual arts, dance, drama, or music. This not only helps in conducting sessions but also in interpreting the art created by clients.
- Active Listening: The ability to listen carefully to understand a client’s thoughts and feelings is crucial. This skill helps therapists interpret the issues faced by the client and formulate a suitable therapeutic strategy.
- Patience: Progress in therapy can often be slow and requires a great deal of patience. A creative arts therapist needs to be patient with their clients, providing a supportive and non-judgmental environment.
- Psychological Knowledge: A strong understanding of psychological theories and practices is vital. This knowledge allows therapists to identify mental health issues and use art therapy as a means of addressing them.
- Observation: An arts therapist should have good observational skills to interpret the non-verbal cues and artistic expressions of their clients, providing them with meaningful insight.
- Flexibility: The ability to adapt to different clients’ needs, modifying therapy plans accordingly, is a necessary skill. Every client is unique and may respond differently to various forms of creative expression.
- Interpersonal Skills: Building rapport with clients, creating a safe space for them to express themselves, and maintaining professional boundaries are all essential aspects of a creative arts therapist’s role.
- Understanding of Cultural and Social Diversity: Therapists often work with people from diverse cultural and social backgrounds. Understanding and respecting these differences is crucial to building a strong therapeutic relationship.
- Documentation: Therapists need to document each therapy session accurately, including clients’ progress and any changes in their behavior or mood. This skill is essential for reviewing and adjusting treatment plans.
- Stress Management: Dealing with others’ emotional and psychological problems can be stressful. Hence, an arts therapist needs to practice good self-care and stress management techniques.
- Group Management: In group therapy sessions, the therapist needs skills to manage the dynamics of a group, ensure each member’s participation, and handle conflicts if they arise.
- Ethical Understanding: Therapists must adhere to professional ethics, including maintaining confidentiality, avoiding dual relationships, and practicing within their competencies.
Creative Arts Therapist Career Path Progression
The Foundation: Entry-Level Creative Arts Therapist
The journey generally begins as an Entry-Level Creative Arts Therapist.
During this phase, you assimilate knowledge and gain hands-on experience, primarily working under supervision.
Your responsibilities might encompass conducting basic therapy sessions, preparing materials, and documenting clients’ responses.
Here are some tips to flourish:
- Continuous Learning: Stay updated with the latest therapy techniques and research in your chosen creative arts therapy field.
- Seek Supervision: Do not hesitate to request feedback and guidance from more experienced colleagues.
- Active Participation: Engage actively in therapy sessions and take responsibility for preparing the creative materials needed.
The Ascent: Creative Arts Therapist
With gained experience and confidence, you’ll transition into the role of a Creative Arts Therapist.
You will be taking charge of more sessions, planning therapeutic interventions, and collaborating with other healthcare professionals.
To thrive in this phase:
- Interpersonal Skills: Enhance your communication and empathy skills to connect better with your clients.
- Collaboration: Cooperate with other healthcare professionals to provide holistic care.
- Evidence-Based Practice: Focus on using creative arts therapy methods that have a strong evidence base.
Reaching New Heights: Senior Creative Arts Therapist
The next level is the Senior Creative Arts Therapist role.
Here, your expertise and leadership within the team are acknowledged.
You might supervise junior therapists, formulate comprehensive treatment plans, and conduct research in your field.
To excel as a Senior Creative Arts Therapist:
- Supervision: Share your knowledge and supervise junior therapists.
- Strategic Planning: Design comprehensive therapy plans considering clients’ overall health and well-being.
- Leadership: Inspire others with your dedication, creativity, and empathetic communication.
Beyond the Horizon: Lead Roles and Beyond
As your career advances, you might choose to specialize in a particular area like Art Therapy, Music Therapy, or Dance Therapy.
Or you might take up roles like Creative Arts Therapy Coordinator or Manager, encompassing greater responsibilities and strategic decision-making.
Here’s what to concentrate on:
- Therapeutic Leadership: Lead therapeutic programs and define the course of your team and clients.
- Management Skills: Develop strong leadership and communication skills to manage your team effectively.
- Innovation: Continue to innovate and stay updated with the latest research and trends in creative arts therapy.
Pinnacle of Success: Director of Creative Arts Therapy
You could reach the pinnacle as the Director of Creative Arts Therapy, responsible for shaping the overall strategy of the department, making critical decisions, and managing a team of therapists.
Here, you’ll be instrumental in incorporating creative arts therapy into the broader framework of patient care.
Creative Arts Therapist Salary
Entry-Level Creative Arts Therapist
- Median Salary: $40,000 – $55,000 per year
- Entry-level Creative Arts Therapists typically have 0-2 years of experience and are generally expected to hold a master’s degree in creative arts therapy or a related field.
Mid-Level Creative Arts Therapist
- Median Salary: $55,000 – $70,000 per year
- Mid-level therapists have 2-5 years of experience and often take on more complex cases, involving a broader range of therapeutic techniques.
Senior Creative Arts Therapist
- Median Salary: $70,000 – $90,000 per year
- Senior therapists have 5+ years of experience and are typically responsible for supervising less experienced therapists, leading therapeutic programs, and conducting research in the field.
Lead Creative Arts Therapist / Therapy Department Manager
- Median Salary: $90,000 – $120,000+ per year
- These roles require extensive experience and often involve leading a team of therapists, program development, and strategic decision-making.
Director of Therapeutic Services / VP of Clinical Services
- Median Salary: $120,000 – $160,000+ per year
- These high-level positions require extensive experience and deep understanding of therapeutic techniques. They typically involve setting strategies for a therapy department or a whole clinic.
Creative Arts Therapist Work Environment
Creative Arts Therapists typically work in various healthcare settings such as hospitals, psychiatric facilities, rehabilitation centers, and mental health clinics.
They may also work in community centers, schools, or in private practice.
These therapists usually have a standard work schedule but could occasionally have to work in the evenings or on weekends depending on their clients’ needs.
A significant part of their job involves individual or group sessions with clients, where they employ different forms of art such as dance, drama, music, and visual arts as therapeutic tools.
After gaining considerable experience and expertise, a Creative Arts Therapist may decide to open their own private practice.
They could also specialize in specific therapeutic methods or patient populations, thus offering specialized therapy services.
FAQs About Becoming a Creative Arts Therapist
What is needed to become a Creative Arts Therapist?
To become a Creative Arts Therapist, you typically need a master’s degree in art therapy or a related field such as psychology or counseling with additional coursework in art therapy.
Clinical experience, often gained through internships, is also required.
Key skills include a strong understanding of therapeutic techniques, the ability to use various art mediums, and excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
A compassionate nature and a deep appreciation for the healing power of art are also essential.
How long does it take to be a Creative Arts Therapist?
The time it takes to become a Creative Arts Therapist can vary depending on your educational path and experience level.
If you pursue a traditional master’s degree in art therapy or a related field, it typically takes two to three years.
This does not include the time spent earning a bachelor’s degree (usually four years) or accumulating the necessary clinical experience, which can take an additional one to two years.
Therefore, the entire process can take about seven to nine years.
Can I be a Creative Arts Therapist without a master’s degree?
Becoming a Creative Arts Therapist usually requires a master’s degree, as this is the minimum educational requirement set by most states and by the American Art Therapy Association.
However, you might be able to work in a related role or setting with a bachelor’s degree in a field like psychology, social work, or art education.
Some employers might also consider candidates with extensive experience in art or therapeutic settings.
Is being a Creative Arts Therapist a stressful job?
Being a Creative Arts Therapist can be emotionally challenging, as it involves helping individuals navigate complex mental health issues.
This can include working with people who have experienced trauma, have serious mental illnesses, or are dealing with grief or loss.
However, many Creative Arts Therapists find the work to be deeply rewarding and fulfilling.
Practicing self-care and maintaining good work-life balance can help manage the emotional demands of the job.
What are the prospects for Creative Arts Therapists in the next decade?
The demand for Creative Arts Therapists is expected to grow in the next decade as the awareness and acceptance of art therapy increases.
Art therapy is now recognized as a beneficial treatment approach for a wide range of mental health issues, and is being used in diverse settings such as hospitals, schools, community organizations, and private practices.
As society continues to focus on mental health and holistic treatment methods, the role of Creative Arts Therapists will continue to expand and evolve.
Conclusion
There you have it.
Setting out on a journey to become a creative arts therapist is no easy task, but it’s unquestionably fulfilling.
Equipped with the right skills, education, and determination, you’re well on your way to making a profound impact in the world of healing arts.
Remember, the path may be challenging, but the possibilities are endless. Your unique therapeutic approach could lead to groundbreaking discoveries in mental health and personal growth.
So, take that first step. Dive deep into learning. Network with professionals. And most importantly, never stop exploring the therapeutic power of creativity.
Because the world is eagerly awaiting the healing arts you can share.
And if you’re looking for personalized guidance on starting or advancing your career in creative arts therapy, explore our AI Career Path Advisor.
This free tool is designed to provide customized advice and resources to help you effectively navigate your career path in the creative arts therapy world.
The Career Currents: The Most Trending Jobs Right Now
The Future of Work: Remote Jobs with Unbelievable Pay!
Soothing Success: Careers That Keep You Calm and Collected
The Scorned Sectors: The Most Hated Jobs in the Economy
From Life-Saving to Deadline-Driving: The Stress Spectrum of Modern Jobs!
