What are careers in art therapy?

Art therapists, sculpting therapists, and musical therapists are careers in art therapy. Here are some descriptions of each of these careers in art therapy:

• Art therapist

  All art therapists utilize creative tools with the aim of having their patients or clients grow emotionally, creatively, and spiritually. They often develop guided exercises geared toward helping their patients express themselves through creating art.

  Art therapists work with a wide range of patients, including those experiencing anxiety or depression, ones with PTSD or past trauma, phobias, and behavioral disorders. They also may work with clients that don't have any serious mental health issues but simply want to grow creatively.

  They may employ many different mediums of art in their therapy, such as drawing, painting, ceramics, and many others. Art therapists have a strong background in art but are also likely to have bachelors or advanced degrees in psychology or another related area. Art therapy is also a major at some colleges.

  Art therapists' pay varies widely, from as much as $81.95 an hour or as little as $7.95 per hour.

• Sculpting therapist

  A sculpting therapist is an art therapist that strictly focuses on the art of sculpting when working with patients. They teach patients the foundational skills and knowledge associated with sculpting and assign them projects that are meant to be therapeutic or reveal something about a patient's mental issues or inner life.

  Most sculpting therapists have a bachelor of fine art degree in sculpting and/or a degree in art therapy.

• Musical therapist

  A musical therapist is a psychology professional who utilizes various musical strategies to treat and rehabilitate patients suffering from mental problems or other medical issues. Musical therapists have their patients listen to music and play music in an attempt to treat them.

  They may also have their patients participate in dancing. Music therapists employ music therapy strategies, which include psychological therapy modalities that use musical approaches to support patients' mental and emotional well-being.

  Most musical therapists have a master's degree in music therapy or psychology. Some states require licensure for this position.