6 Apr 2025 ● British Association of Art Therapists
Introduction to the profession of art therapy
Are you looking for a new career that involves helping others, creativity, and personal growth? Whether you are starting to shape your professional path or want to change an established career, this introduction day will give you a chance to find out if the profession of art therapy may be for you.
"The course was really insightful and a great introduction to the career. Really useful to be able to ask lots of questions and the interactive element of art making was really good."
What is art therapy?
Art therapy is an established form of psychotherapy, delivered by trained art therapists (also known as art psychotherapists).
Art therapy uses art as the primary mode of expression, alongside talking with an art therapist. It aims to reduce distress and improve social, emotional and mental health by promoting insight, self-compassion and a sense of agency and self-worth.
About the day
The day will introduce you to the professional context of art therapy and its development. You will meet two art therapists who will explain the basic concepts of art therapy and show examples of their clinical practice.
The day will also include an overview of the various pathways available to train in art therapy and there will be opportunities for you to ask general questions about the art therapy profession to support group learning. However, for questions about individual circumstances in relation to training requirements, you should contact the admissions tutors for the programme(s) you are interested in applying to.
Who is this course for?
This introduction course is for people considering a career as an art therapist and who want to find out more about the profession. Please read the article How to become an art therapist before enrolling on this course.
If you work in education or social care settings and want to learn how to use art to support the children and young people you work with, our ARTiculate course will be more helpful.
How you will learn
Learning will be through lectures, case presentations, and art-based exercises.
Tutors
Sarah Robinson and Sarah Harrison-Greaves.
