A chapter of the American Art THerapy Association
EDUCATIONAL STANDARDS & Guidelines
A master’s degree is necessary for entry-level practice in art therapy.
The educational standards require a minimum of 60 semester credit hours of graduate level coursework that includes training in studio art (drawing, painting, sculpture, etc.), the creative process, psychological development, group therapy, art therapy assessment, psychodiagnostics, research methods, and multicultural diversity competence.Students must also complete 100 hours of supervised practicum, and 600 hours of supervised art therapy clinical internship.
Art therapists are master’s level clinicians who work with people of all ages across a broad spectrum of practice. Guided by ethical standards and scope of practice, their education and supervised training prepares them for culturally proficient work with diverse populations in a variety of settings.
Honoring individuals’ values and beliefs, art therapists work with people who are challenged with medical and mental health problems, as well as individuals seeking emotional, creative, and spiritual growth.
Educational Standards for Art Therapists