A stereotypical pop culture image of a therapist is usually one of an older white haired gentleman in a big fancy office smoking a cigar and with partial attention to his hysterical client as he/she lies on a couch. “So, tell me about your mother….”, the therapist purrs, as he blows a smoke ring.
Okay, perhaps that is a little archaic, but such imagery does beg the question, “What should one look for when choosing a therapist?” A tough but important question that becomes slightly more complicated when seeking a therapist with a particular skill set, such as a trained Music Therapist or Art Therapist.I’ve been asked by folks when “if I only work with artists as clients” when I share with them that I am an Art Therapist.I chuckle and explain that Art Therapy is a distinct mental health profession with practitioners who have had a considerable amount of training and education in their field in order to know what materials are most appropriate in a particular setting or situation, how to glean diagnostic information from imagery, and understand various emotional nuances present in a an art making session. What do we mean when say “Art Therapy”?
According to the American Art Therapy Association art therapy “the therapeutic use of art-making, within a professional relationship by people who experience illness, trauma, or challenges in living, and by people who seek personal development. Through creating art and reflecting on the art products and processes, people can increase awareness of self and others, cope with symptoms, stress, and traumatic experiences, enhance cognitive abilities and enjoy the life-affirming pleasures of making art”.
Whatare the education and training requirementsto be an Art Therapist?
Although this varies state by state, in Colorado, Art Therapists are required to either have a Master's degree in art therapy ,orMaster's degree with an emphasis in art therapy or 24 semester units in art therapy coursework with a Master's degree in a related field. Graduate programs are accredited by the American Art Therapy Association. An Art Therapist Registered (ATR) is an art therapist with at least two years post-graduate supervision provided by an Art Therapist Registered. ATRs may become Board Certified with additional training and after passing a certification exam. Many Art Therapists also hold state licenses, such as the LPC (Licensed Professional Counselor) or the LMFT (Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist).Art therapists should also possess certain personal qualities, such as social perceptivess, the ability to actively listen, and knowledge of and experience with a variety of art materials. For more information on these qualifications visit the National Institute of Health Office of Science Education’s exploration of science and medical careers.
So how do I chose an Art Therapist that is a good fit for me? Here are some steps to take when choosing an Art Therapist:
1.If necessary, consult with your primary care physician to make sure there is not a medical cause for your concerns and to get an authorization for mental health services if such is required by your insurance company.
3.Call the Art Therapist to find out about available appointment times, location, fees, and insurance coverage.
4.Talk with the Art Therapist to make sure he/she is experienced in helping people with concerns similar to yours. Feel free to ask about the Art Therapist’s, education, professional experience, and licensure. Many Art Therapists will offer a free in person or phone consultation to answer any additional questions you have—such as how long therapy may last or if your therapist is able to coordinate services with other providers.
5.When meeting with your Art Therapist, assess to seeifyou and she/he have a good rapport. If not, its okay to meet with other therapists until you find someone who is a good fit you.The Art Therapist will provide you with referrals for other providers at your request. Working with a therapist and/or an Art Therapist is one of the most important investments you can make—an investment in your health. Take time to make a choice that feels right for you. Then get ready to get creative and move towards recovery and increased well-being! - Erin Brumleve, MA, LPC, ATR, 2009
Individual, Family, Child Therapy in Denver and the surrounding Metro areas: Cherry Creek, Englewood, Lakewood, Westminster, Arvada, Commerce City, Littleton, Highlands Ranch, Aurora
