Art therapists work with people of all ages in all sorts of settings, as art therapy projects can be adapted for any clientele. Art therapists are commonly seen in therapeutic schools, hospitals, nursing homes, residential facilities and outpatient clinics. Many art therapists also work in private practice.
After leaving all of the creative art making we do at Brookhaven Retreat, you may find yourself wanting to continue making art and possibly working with a therapist. An art therapist will be able to hold a safe space for emotions, offer direction with materials and projects, and help you achieve more insight into the creative process to further your mental health recovery. Many will be able to teach art skills as well as therapeutic skills.
There are many art therapists spread out across the country.
You can search the American Art Therapy Association’s Therapist Locator at http://www.americanarttherapyassociation.org/upload/LOCATOR2.15.11.pdf
You may also contact your state chapter at this website: http://www.americanarttherapyassociation.org/aata-chaptersmain.html.
You will want a therapist with a credential of ATR, a Registered Art Therapist, and preferably one who is Board Certified (ATR-BC). Some ATR-BCs also hold other credentials, such as a licensed counselor or Ph.D. They will often have a theoretical orientation, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy or Psychodynamic Therapy. If this is something you are concerned with, do some research about these theories and ask on your first visit.
Happy hunting!
