Art therapy training is available in a variety of formats for psychology professionals with experience in counseling and other forms of therapy. These postgraduate school courses lead to certification that demonstrates the ability to incorporate various forms of art therapy into an existing psychotherapy practice. Some art therapy programs require specific coursework in art techniques, psychology, or social work at the undergraduate and graduate levels. Art therapy training can be tailored to candidates’ fields of expertise depending on their areas of expertise, allowing them to apply art therapy to existing knowledge. Art therapy programs vary school, with some emphasizing the study of art therapy as a primary degree goal or as a secondary focus to an advanced psychology degree program.
Art therapy schools typically offer a Master of Arts (MA) degree in counseling psychology or a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degree in clinical psychology, both with an emphasis in art therapy, at colleges and universities. Other programs, on the other hand, include earning an MA in art therapy with a counseling emphasis. Some smaller, more specialized art and design schools specialize solely in expressive therapy and offer MA degrees in the field. In group or individual settings, these types of art therapy programs frequently combine visual art creativity and practical therapy. A different kind of art therapy degree has a broader scope, providing practicing clinicians with a holistic background in using creative arts to treat a wide range of patients, including those with traumatic stress or substance use disorders.
Art therapy programs geared toward professionals in education or social work have more options. Advanced teaching degrees are sometimes offered schools with visual arts programs that emphasize technology applications for students who already have a bachelor’s degree in art education. These students have the option of focusing on art therapy. Many of these educators go on to use their art therapy training in special education settings. Candidates with a master’s degree in social work can enroll in art therapy programs that will prepare them to work with children and adolescents with special needs.
Art therapy programs, regardless of specialty area, include coursework that emphasizes both theory and practical applications when working with patients. Sculpture, drawing, painting, and other mediums are covered in many art therapy classes, as well as connections to therapeutic processes. Art therapy students may be required to complete independent research or clinical externships after completing this coursework.