Arts Therapists
Arts Therapists use art, drama or music to help people with emotional, social, physical and mental problems. They aim to help their clients find an outlet for often complex and confusing emotions, which they may not necessarily be able to expressed verbally. They also try to foster self awareness and confidence in their patients.
Art therapists may work in a variety of settings, including:
- psychiatry
- mental handicap (people with learning disabilities)
- special and mainstream education
- the social services
- prisons
Entry Requirements
Applicants for arts therapies are usually graduates in art and design, drama or music, but qualified teachers, social workers, psychologists and other professionals with a commitment to the practice of the visual arts are also considered.
You will need a relevant post-graduate diploma to work as an arts therapist in the NHS or social services. These courses - full-time or part-time - are available at a number of colleges and universities. Students will normally need to fund their way through these courses themselves. Occasionally, individuals have been able to gain assistance from charities or grant making trusts.
Once qualified you will need to apply for state registration by the Health Professions Council (HPC) (see below).
For further information on careers in Art Therapy contact:
British Association of Art Therapists
24-27 White Lion Street,
London N1 9PD.
Tel: 020 7686 4216
Email:
[email protected]
Website:
www.baat.org
The Health Professions Council
Park House
184 Kennington Park Road
London
SE11 4BU
tel +44 (0) 20 7582 0866
fax +44 (0) 20 7820 9684
Click here for HPC website