Art Therapy

Art allows children to express themselves freely when words are hard to find. It offers a unique outlet for them to communicate their hopes, fears and dreams.

Engaging in art directives helps children relax and reduce anxiety. By immersing themselves in the creative process, they can temporarily escape from the challenges of their medical condition.

Through art, children can explore their identity, self-perception and personal experiences. This promotes self-awareness, self-esteem and empowerment.

Art therapy provides opportunities for children to interact with their peers, promoting social skills, empathy and a sense of belonging. Group sessions encourage teamwork and collaboration.

Children gain effective coping strategies and resilience-building skills when they engage with art therapy, enabling them to better cope with challenges and transitions in their lives. Art activities create a positive and engaging environment that encourages healing and recovery.

Art therapists have earned a master's degree from an accredited graduate art therapy program. This includes coursework, an internship (700-1,000 hours) and often a graduate project or thesis.

Coursework for art therapists includes human development, psychological theories, counseling process and theory, group and family process, assessment procedures, diagnosis, research, ethics, cultural diversity, extensive trauma training and more. 

Art therapists need a minimum of 1,000 hours of direct client contact hours using art therapy, under a supervised art therapist, to become a registered art therapist (ATR). Trainees need to pass a national exam to become a fully board-certified art therapist (ATR-BC).

Many certified art therapists pursue state licensure, whether as a professional art therapist (coming to D.C. soon) or as a Licensed Professional Counselor.

Continuing education credits are required to be earned annually.