Art therapist : Job description

Art therapists work with people of all ages and backgrounds using the visual arts as a medium for healing, awareness and self-development. They aim to help their clients to express intense emotion and explore their thoughts in a non-verbal way, using a wide range of art materials. The intention is not a focus on the artistic skills of the client but their engagement in a creative personal process.

They work in either a group or one-to-one setting and provide a safe and secure environment for clients to work through their emotions. Art therapists also work closely with other healthcare professionals as part of a multidisciplinary team.

A registered art therapist or art psychotherapist (these titles can be interchangeable), will have undertaken approved training at postgraduate level, and be registered with the Health Professions Council (HPC)  (a legal requirement in order to practise in the UK).

Typical work activities

Typical activities include:

• taking referrals, including self-referrals and referrals from other professionals such as teachers, psychologists, occupational therapists and psychiatrists;
• making referrals to other professionals;
• attending meetings and case conferences to share ideas, expertise and good practice;
• assessing the needs of the client by listening and providing guidance;
• working creatively with various client groups in a therapeutic setting; 
• working in a group or one-to-one setting, often as part of a multidisciplinary team of professionals;
• enabling clients to explore their art work and the process of its production;
• assessing and understanding the feelings or temperament of others;
• constructively challenging the behaviour and attitude of clients;
• keeping up to date with administration: making phone calls; writing reports and case notes; and drafting letters to other professionals;
• planning, designing and facilitating a schedule of activities with individuals and groups;
• maintaining art therapy space and materials;
• receiving support and discussing ideas in individual supervision;
• exploring opportunities for work where it may not currently exist;
• presenting a case to other professionals on reasons for employing an art therapist;
• explaining what art therapy is to colleagues and other practitioners;
• keeping up to date with continuing professional development (CPD) by attending seminars, lectures, and workshops;
• liaising with team members.