An art therapist can hold a broad range of positions. They use a combination of psychological counseling and art to treat emotional and mental trauma in patients. In other words, art provides a channel or means of expressing one’s ideas or emotions. Usually, they talk with the patient first to discover possible interpretations, and, in return, they figure out which method(s) works best for that particular patient.
There are numerous paths you can take if you’re thinking about working in this industry. As long as you have a strong desire to assist people, you will be good to go. Jobs in art therapy are not only exciting but are also rewarding. You will be helping people express themselves and work through mental illnesses and traumas that they experience.
If this is a field that interests you, then you have come to the right place. Here are some of the exciting jobs an art therapist could have. Read along with us and let’s find out which one works best for you.
Understanding The Profession
Art therapy refers to a mental tool that many professionals use to solve their patient’s issues. For instance, if you want to raise self-awareness, self-confidence, and self-esteem, this is one of the methods used to achieve all of the above. Art therapists also help to change people’s behavior, develop their social skills, improve their life functioning, and so much more.
It has also been proven that art therapy helps explore the subconscious mind and also reduces anxiety. Let’s delve into the specifics now that you have a general understanding of the area.
Where Do Art Therapists Work?
Art therapists can work in different settings. For instance, they might work in psychiatric wards of a hospital or even a drug rehabilitation center. You can choose to set up ya mental health care organization or a private clinical office as long as you have the necessary skills and experience. You may also be employed to work in a school or a higher educational facility.
Potential Positions
Here are some of the alternatives available to you in this field of work. In all of these positions, you can use art therapy.
Family Therapist
If you have a psychological degree, you can use this opportunity to heal wounds and also resolve conflicts in families. If you wish to provide counseling to someone, you must obtain a master’s or Ph.D. in a relevant discipline. To get started, you need first to diagnose and treat the mental, emotional, and other health issues with family individuals. Your goal should be to reunite and restore relationships that have been on edge or damaged. Family therapy is very crucial to helping couples and families suffering from depression or any other mental health problems.
Substance Abuse Counselor
You will need to attain a certain level of expertise and experience to start working as both a therapist and a substance abuse counselor. There are so many substance abuse addicts who need professional help, so this job is very much in demand. Your aim should always be to help addicts cope with cravings, stress, and withdrawal syndromes, and also to manage and stop their addiction successfully.
Social Worker
The state’s Child Welfare Department employs the majority of social workers. However, others are employed within the community and other outreach programs. This job requires a degree in social work and a passion for helping people. If you are working in a foster care institution, you will have to use your techniques and skills to help these children recover from the trauma, pain, and memories they endured while still staying with their parents or caretakers.
Bottom Line
As an art therapist, your job is to help people heal using whichever method you know best. You might work as a researcher, clinical therapist, family therapist, social worker, and so on. Everything is dependent on your area of passion.
Also read – 5 Steps Required to Join the Social Work Profession