Art therapists use creative expression as a method of psychological therapy. Art therapy can help mental health patients, trauma survivors, people recovering from substance abuse, and the chronically ill. Art therapists who pursue certification through the Art Therapy Credentials Board (ATCB) validate their skills and knowledge as practitioners, opening the door to career opportunities nationwide.
Read on to learn more about art therapy certification.
Benefits of Certification
While some art therapists do not need ATCB certification to practice, many states require it. Some states also have additional requirements. Certification makes an art therapist more employable, as it demonstrates thorough knowledge of the field and the completion of ethical obligations outlined by the ATCB.
Provisional registered art therapists (ATR-P) are therapists who have completed their education requirements, but remain in the process of completing direct supervised practice.
While some art therapists do not need ATCB certification to practice, many states require it
Registered art therapists (ATR) must hold a master's degree with practicum and internship hours. In addition, they must complete supervised clinical practice, possibly under the ATR-P designation.
Board certified art therapists (ATR-BC) hold the highest possible credential for art therapy. Applicants must qualify for ATR certification and complete an additional examination.
Art therapy certified supervisors (ATCS) are approved to supervise ATR-P therapists completing advanced clinical practice.
Art Therapy Certification Process
Art therapy certification is a national process orchestrated by the ATCB. Art therapists must hold a master's degree to qualify for any of ATCB's four art therapy certifications. Depending on the particular certification, participants may need additional clinical hours, experience working in the field, or passing scores on the ATCB examination.
Certified therapists benefit from affiliation with the organization that sets professional and ethical standards for art therapists. The ATCB's code of ethics emphasizes client welfare; professional competence and integrity; and responsibility to students, supervisees, research participants, and the profession at large.
Provisional Registered Art Therapist (ATR-P)
Cost$60 application fee, plus a $25 yearly maintenance fee Length of Time to CompleteFive years Steps to Take
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Registered Art Therapist (ATR)
Cost$125 application fee, plus a $100 yearly maintenance fee Length of Time to CompleteOne year Steps to Take
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Board Certified Art Therapist (ATR-BC)
Cost$275 examination fee, plus a $100 yearly maintenance fee Length of Time to CompleteThe examination lasts four hours Steps to Take
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Art Therapy Certified Supervisor (ATCS)
Cost$115 application fee, plus a $25 yearly maintenance fee Length of Time to CompleteATR-BC credential must remain active for at least 24 months prior to application Steps to Take
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