Art Therapy Major

Defined

Art therapy combines the artist’s understand­ing of creative expression with the therapist’s under­standing of personal dynamics. Through art therapy, an individual’s psychological processes can be com­municated in a nonverbal or graphic manner. Certain characteristics of an individual’s artistic expression, such as form and content, as well as the associations and reactions to the artwork, can be used by the therapist to explore areas of personal conflict and areas of potential growth. The art therapist brings to the therapeutic set­ting a unique view of the creative process as a healing process.

Art therapy can be used as a primary, parallel or adjunc­tive therapy. It also can be used as a diagnostic tool in the evaluation of individuals, groups and families. Many art therapists function as an integral member of a therapeutic team, while others serve as consultants or conduct private practices.

Program 

The bachelor of arts degree with a major in art therapy is awarded upon the completion of a four-year program which includes a broad range of courses in studio art, psychology and art therapy. Students will be given the opportunity for individual study in clinical settings and will be able to attend lectures, workshops and seminars regularly scheduled throughout the year.

• Sample four-year course schedule.
• Complete list of the General Education core curriculum.

Certification

The American Art Therapy Association awards the designation of Art Therapist Registered (A.T.R.) in recognition of specific standards of profession­al competence. Certification at the professional level requires appropriate work experience and a master’s degree from an approved graduate program. An undergraduate degree in art therapy provides a strong foundation which is beneficial in further study.

The Capital University Student Art Therapy Associa­tion attends meetings sponsored by the Buckeye Art Therapy Association, which is the field’s professionally recognized certifying organization.

Employment

Art therapists are employed in psychiat­ric hospitals and out-patient clinics, performing indi­vidual and group psychotherapy, as well as aiding in the assessment of individuals and families; in special educa­tion programs working with children who are learning disabled, developmentally delayed, socially deprived and/or exhibiting emotional problems; and in nursing homes where art is being used to facilitate the life review process.

Art therapists also can be found in substance abuse agencies, counseling centers, halfway houses and pris­ons, employee assistance programs, hospice programs and in private practice. A growing area of professional involvement is in medical facilities as part of the alterna­tive healing programs now offered.

The Education You Want. The Attention You Deserve.