What training do you need to get a job as an art therapist?
You will need the minimum of a Master's degree from a program accredited by the American Art Therapy Association, Inc. This includes coursework in art therapy, practicum experience, and typically a thesis paper or research project to complete your degree requirements. Click here to see AATA's educational requirements.There are no longer certificate programs available offering training in art therapy. You must obtain a master’s degree in art therapy from an accredited program. Some of your master’s level coursework from another field might count toward your degree in art therapy. Check with the institution with which you plan to apply. Art therapists understand that we do not own “the rights to art” and many practitioners use art therapeutically in their profession. However, to call oneself an art therapist or to say one is doing art therapy requires a degree in art therapy.
