Skip to main content

Art therapist

What is art therapy/art psychotherapy?

Art therapy is a form of psychotherapy that uses art media as its primary mode of expression and communication.

Used in a therapeutic context, art is used as a medium to identify and address psychological, emotional and well-being issues which may be confusing and distressing.

 
How do I become an art therapist?

 

Do I need a degree? Yes, to work as an art therapist or art psychotherapist (both titles are protected by law and inter-changeable), it is mandatory to have completed an art therapy masters training programme validated by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC)
Where can I train in Wales? University of South Wales: MA Art Psychotherapy.
Is there funding available? No. Dependent on students’ personal circumstances, only a small number of bursaries are available. For further information about available funding and eligibility please visit the University’s site.
Are there postgraduate opportunities? Further opportunities exist in research degree study (PhD, MPhil and MRes), consultative supervision training and other post-qualifying specialist courses.
How do I get experience? To find out about work experience and volunteering opportunities in NHS Wales visit our Work section. For other forms of opportunities please visit British Association of Art Therapists Career and Training page.
How do I apply for a job? All vacancies for NHS Wales are advertised on NHS Jobs. Visit our Work section for more information.
Useful links: