Art therapist

Career path and progression

With experience, you could become self employed and create your own business.

You could also:

• become a senior art therapist
• manage a team of therapists
• manage an arts therapy unit
• move into teaching

What it takes

Skills and knowledge

You'll need:

• counselling skills including active listening and a non-judgemental approach
• knowledge of psychology
• customer service skills
• patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
• sensitivity and understanding
• the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
• to be flexible and open to change
• the ability to understand people’s reactions
• to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device

Restrictions and Requirements

You'll need to:

• pass enhanced background checks as you may work with children and vulnerable adults

Related subjects

Most relevant

• Art and Design - Art therapists use creative activities like drawing, painting, sculpture, and collage as the core tools of their practice. They need a strong understanding of art materials, techniques, and the creative process to guide clients in expressing themselves visually.
• Psychology - Art therapists need a deep understanding of how the mind works, including how people process emotions, trauma, and mental health conditions. They use psychological theories to interpret clients' artwork and to plan therapeutic approaches tailored to each individual.

Also relevant

• Sociology - Art therapists work with people from diverse backgrounds, including those affected by poverty, social exclusion, or institutional settings like prisons. Understanding how social factors shape people's experiences and wellbeing helps them provide more sensitive and effective support.
• Biology - Art therapists benefit from understanding how the brain processes emotions, stress, and trauma. Knowledge of the nervous system and how physical health conditions – such as brain injuries or neurological disorders – affect behaviour helps them adapt their therapeutic approach.
• English Language - Art therapists write detailed case notes, treatment plans, and reports for other healthcare professionals. They also need strong listening and communication skills to build trust with clients, many of whom find it difficult to express themselves verbally.
• Religious Studies - Art therapists work with clients from many different cultural and religious backgrounds, and beliefs can deeply influence how people understand suffering, healing, and self-expression. Being sensitive to these perspectives helps therapists create a safe and respectful space for their clients.
• Philosophy - Art therapists engage with ethical questions around consent, confidentiality, and working with vulnerable people – including children and those in prisons. Philosophical thinking also supports the reflective practice that therapists use to examine their own responses and improve their work.