A student can pursue a degree in mental health, psychology in order to become an art therapist. Some students also opt for fine arts at their bachelors level in order to hone those creative skills. A degree in psychology will provide knowledge on mental health issues, behavioral problems, etc. And a degree in fine arts will provide an individual with skills necessary to unleash their creative potential and how to use their art in an expressive manner.
It is advised to students that they pursue a masters degree in clinical psychology to gain a deeper understanding of the emotional and behavioral issues by individuals. A student who has had some other degree in bachelors can also opt for a masters degree in psychology. However, it is generally advised to have a base in psychology first at a bachelors level. After finishing the masters, students should gain a certification from a recognized institute in art therapy in order to practice as an art therapist.
1. IIPR College, Bengaluru 2. TISS, Mumbai 3. NIMHANS, Bengaluru 4. Indian Institute of Psychodrama, Chennai 5. East West Centre for Counseling, Chennai
Art therapy is most commonly recommended for people with medical, educational, developmental, or psycho-social impairment. Art therapy is also an effective treatment for people dealing with the issues such as individuals who are struggling with frightening memories or upsetting emotions as a result of trauma, combat or abuse; Persons with serious medical health conditions or disabilities such as traumatic brain injury, cancer, depression, autism, anti-social personality or dementia; Couples attempting to reconcile emotional conflicts; Individuals seeking personal growth and increased self-esteem; People experiencing stress, anxiety, and other problematic behaviors. The underlying goal of art therapy is to improve or restore a client's functioning and his or her personal feelings of well-being. This begins with an art therapist encouraging the client to engage in the creative process, to explore their feelings, and to enjoy the pleasures of making art. Art therapy does not require the client to be talented or an artist, to experience the benefits. An art therapist's job is not to teach art or critique a client’s work, instead, art therapists work with clients to dive into the underlying messages communicated through their art, and combine psycho-therapeutic counseling techniques to promote personal development, foster self-awareness, and build coping skills.