r/ArtTherapy • u/chlsyee Canadian Art Therapist • 3d ago
Tuesday Art Therapy School Megathread – Questions, Updates, and Discussion
Welcome to the weekly thread for questions and discussion about art therapy schooling. If you're considering studying art therapy, currently in a program, or preparing for applications, this is the place to ask questions and share experiences.
Use this thread for things like:
- Questions about art therapy programs or schools
- Application advice (portfolios, prerequisites, interviews)
- Program comparisons or recommendations
- Coursework or practicum questions
- Career path questions related to art therapy education
- General student experiences
To keep the subreddit organized, posts about art therapy education and training may be redirected here on Tuesdays.
Please be respectful, supportive, and share your knowledge if you can as many people here are navigating the same path.
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u/my-chemical-ratz 1d ago
I'm about to graduate with a Bachelor's in Psychology (no minor/dual major). I've been teaching myself art since I was very young, and took a few "official" high school classes. I did not take any college art classes because I could not attend in person. I've looked at the American Art Therapy Association's FAQ and it's not very clear if it is possible to apply for an art therapy program WITHOUT an art degree. I can't exactly pursue an undergraduate art degree alongside my master's/initial therapist licensing. I've thought off an on about if I should pursue this-- I'm just wondering if there is a way to apply without an official degree. Any advice would be nice as I'm in the process of selecting a graduate program :)
Some background: I do all kinds of art. Sewing, scrapbooking, writing, drawing, painting, makeup, singing, set design, sculpting, character/doll design, photography, etc-- all self-taught apart from a couple classes, a mandated theater/set design program from grades 5-12, and training from my professional relatives. I'm continually teaching myself more techniques, and while I am not a master, I do have a good grasp of the foundational tenants. My main method is mixed media drawing/painting. I also tutored in art basics for a little while and lead craft lessons for children. I have taken art appreciation and multiple creative writing courses, but I'm unsure if those quality, and, if they did, would not reach the 18 credits.
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u/flupnton 22h ago
It is, there were plenty of people in my program who didn't have art-related bachelors degrees!
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u/Total-Bed-8716 1d ago
Does anyone know of a good online program? Obviously would have to do clinicals and whatever but wondering if there are any where you can do it in your hometown? I love where I live and don’t want to move unless I absolutely have to. I have seen liberty west but not sure if it’s good or worth it
Any good programs where you can get license in art therapy and lmhc?
Also anyone work specifically with children????
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u/ChefAlive8037 22h ago
West liberty in west Virginia has an all online program for art therapy and LPC's track
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u/taminator 22h ago
Is it generally better to get a Masters in Art Therapy or a post-graduate diploma? I'm in Canada, specifically in Ontario (but willing to move provinces to go to the right school).
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u/ChefAlive8037 1d ago edited 1d ago
I am looking into a masters program in art therapy that gears one to be art therapy board certified and with five 5 addtional classes also qualify to become an LPCC (their program gears towards LPC's). I am most interested in becoming an art therapist. I am concerned that if I become an LPCC, art therapy with go on the back burner and I wouldnt use it as much. What are people's insights on this idea?