Art therapists work as multidisciplinary practitioners of psychotherapy, using art media and creative activities as their primary means of engagement and communication. This degree focusses on the use of visual arts, including drawing, painting and sculpting, as therapeutic tools to address mental health challenges. Students learn to apply art interventions to help individuals express and explore emotions, enhance self-awareness, and promote psychological well-being. The curriculum often includes theoretical coursework, practical art-making experiences, and supervised clinical placements.
Entry onto a master’s course generally requires an undergraduate degree in a relevant subject area such as art and design, psychology, or social work. Usually, a minimum of one year's work experience in a caregiving environment is also necessary. There are ten art therapy masters’ courses in England, and with a recent uptake of art therapists working across private and public healthcare, trained professionals are in high demand.
What to expect
As a practice-based course requiring a broad range of developed skills, art therapy master’s degrees have a duration of two years full-time, or four years part-time attendance. As a student, you can anticipate gaining experience in conducting art therapy sessions, understanding psychological theories, navigating ethical considerations in practice, as well as developing your own artistic expression along the way. The programme often emphasises self-reflection, and it is not uncommon for students to undergo some form of personal therapy over the course of their studies.
There are many specialisms which can be explored, including work with a particular client group, positions within health policy and research, education, and management. Art therapy courses are regulated by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) and once you’ve graduated, you can become a registered art therapist and start your professional practice.
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