Art therapists

Website: Homepage - The British Association Of Art Therapists (baat.org)

What does an Art Therapist do?

Art therapy is an established form of psychotherapy, delivered by trained art therapists (also known as art psychotherapists).

Art therapy uses art as the primary mode of expression, alongside talking with an art therapist. It aims to reduce distress and improve social, emotional, or mental health by promoting insight, self-compassion and a sense of agency and self-worth.

During art therapy, you are supported by an art therapist to use art to express and articulate often complex thoughts and feelings through art making. This may be following difficult or traumatic experiences which may be hard to talk about.

Where does an Art Therapist work?

Art Therapists work in a range of settings including:

• Client’s homes
• Social services
• Education providers (primary, secondary, further and special education)
• Prisons
• Charities
•  Hospitals
• Mental health services
•  Private clinics

How to become an Art Therapist?

Work experience

If you are interested in a career in art therapy and want to try some work experience in art therapy you can contact your local NHS Trust, voluntary or private organisations and they may be able to facilitate experience for you.

You can also access Introductory courses for people who are considering training as an art therapist, more information can be found here: Events - The British Association Of Art Therapists (baat.org)

University route

University courses to study art therapy are at a postgraduate level.

You can find a full list of universities offering Art therapy courses here:How to become an art therapist - The British Association Of Art Therapists (baat.org)

Apprenticeship route

The apprenticeship route has begun to launch an MSc art therapy apprenticeship in which apprentices can work and study at the same time.

You can find out more about Art therapy apprenticeships here: How to become an art therapist - The British Association Of Art Therapists (baat.org)

How to become an Art Therapy Assistant/Support Worker?

Art therapy assistants/support workers positions are advertised locally through recruiting organisations-you will need to look at your local organisations vacancies in order to become an assistant/support worker, you could call them or look at their website.

Support workers assisting art therapists are often called creative therapy support workers. You can find out more about the role here  Creative therapy support roles | Health Careers