Art Therapy

Art Therapy differs from other therapies as it employs various art media; paint, clay, collage, etc. to facilitate the child’s expression and conceptualization of areas of their experience beyond the reach of words alone. Since the child creates the art expressions with the materials, the interpretation and understanding of them is guided by the child; not imposed by the Art Therapist. 

Impact
The process of Art Therapy develops within a triangular relationship between therapist, child and the image produced in the session. Containment within the therapeutic alliance enables anxiety to be held, providing a suitable environment for the safe expression of the abused child’s feelings through the art work. 

Education
Educational and professional standards for Clinical Art Therapists are regulated by the American Art Therapy Association. Registered Art Therapist (ATR) credentials are granted by The Art Therapy Credentials Board upon completion of a Master’s degree in art therapy and 1,000 hours of supervised clinical training experience. The Registered Art Therapist who successfully completes the written examination by the Credential Board is granted Board Certified classification (ATR-BC) and must maintain the Certification through continuing education credits.