ART THERAPY RESOURCES

www.therapyart.org

ART THERAPY JOBS

Art Therapy Jobs

A Career In Art Therapy!

Art Therapy Job Outlook

Careerbuilder.com listed art therapy as one of its 10 "top jobs" for 2007. Currently, there are only about 5000 registered art therapists in the US, but art therapy is continuing to be viewed more frequently as a therapeutic option and also as a means to evaluate. With this in mind, art therapy jobs will become more in demand and the outlook for a successful career in art therapy is excellent.

Art Therapy Job Settings

Art Therapy Jobs can be found in hospital and clinic settings working with kids, adults, seniors and families. Also, there is a need for art therapists in educational settings as instructors or facilitators. Community and public agencies are also seeing the value of the art therapist as a resource for issues such as substance abuse and domestic violence. Wellness centers and businesses are hiring art therapists at an increasing rate. Private practice is also an option for the art therapist, the art therapist can offer therapy services for mental and emotional health, trauma and loss, neurological issues and an array of health and social issues.

Art Therapy Job Salary

The average Art Therapist salary with 1-4 years of experience is $37,858, the average salary with 5-9 years of experience is $40,831 and the average salary with 10-19 years of experience is $43,836.

What Kind of Person Does it Take to be an Art Therapist

This question will vary depending on who you ask. I have read a lot about Art Therapy and Art Therapy jobs because I have had a strong interest in the field for quite a long time. My opinion is that an art therapist, first and foremost, needs to be compassionate; it takes a special kind of person to work in a therapy situation where there is emotional and/or mental issues. The educational training model in art therapy is a blend of psychology and art, the educational process provides the art therapist excellent training to deal with a variety of health situations and mental issues but I feel it takes a compassionate, caring individual who is able to weave the psychology, the art and love for mankind together to make for a truly successful art therapy session.

Where to find Art Therapy Jobs

A great start is by going to the American Art Therapy Association website ( listed under sources) and there you will find a link to job opportunities. You do need to register and become a member to access the art therapy job opportunities link, there is a fee involved but the site is such an excellent resource and well worth the money.