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brianna
Student
Troutdale, Oregon
3
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why do art therapists need to have so much schooling?
I am currently a student and I want to become an art therapist I'm just curious about how and why there is so much schooling.
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Kim Arskii
Social Media Analyst
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St. Augustine, Florida
Updated
Kim’s Answer
Becoming an art therapist does require a significant amount of schooling, and there are a few reasons for that. Art therapy is a specialized field that combines both art and psychology, so it's important to have a strong foundation in both areas.
Firstly, art therapists need to have a deep understanding of psychology and human behavior. They need to study various theories, therapeutic techniques, and counseling approaches to effectively support their clients. This knowledge helps them understand the emotional and psychological aspects of art-making and how it can be used as a tool for healing and self-expression.
Secondly, art therapists need to develop their artistic skills and knowledge. They need to learn different art mediums, techniques, and art history to guide their clients in the creative process. This allows them to create a safe and supportive environment for their clients to explore their emotions and thoughts through art.
Lastly, art therapists also need to gain practical experience through supervised internships and clinical placements. This hands-on experience is crucial for developing the necessary skills to work with diverse populations, address specific therapeutic needs, and navigate ethical considerations.
Overall, the schooling and training required for art therapists ensure that they have the knowledge, skills, and expertise to provide effective therapy using art as a medium. It's a combination of understanding psychology, honing artistic abilities, and gaining practical experience to support individuals in their healing journeys.
If you're interested in pursuing a career in art therapy, it's important to research accredited programs and universities that offer art therapy programs. They can provide you with the necessary education and training to become a qualified art therapist.
Firstly, art therapists need to have a deep understanding of psychology and human behavior. They need to study various theories, therapeutic techniques, and counseling approaches to effectively support their clients. This knowledge helps them understand the emotional and psychological aspects of art-making and how it can be used as a tool for healing and self-expression.
Secondly, art therapists need to develop their artistic skills and knowledge. They need to learn different art mediums, techniques, and art history to guide their clients in the creative process. This allows them to create a safe and supportive environment for their clients to explore their emotions and thoughts through art.
Lastly, art therapists also need to gain practical experience through supervised internships and clinical placements. This hands-on experience is crucial for developing the necessary skills to work with diverse populations, address specific therapeutic needs, and navigate ethical considerations.
Overall, the schooling and training required for art therapists ensure that they have the knowledge, skills, and expertise to provide effective therapy using art as a medium. It's a combination of understanding psychology, honing artistic abilities, and gaining practical experience to support individuals in their healing journeys.
If you're interested in pursuing a career in art therapy, it's important to research accredited programs and universities that offer art therapy programs. They can provide you with the necessary education and training to become a qualified art therapist.