Your path: MA Art Therapy Counseling
MA in Art Therapy Counseling
Initially, art therapy was used primarily for children and adults with serious emotional illnesses. Today, it is an accepted therapy for a wide variety of needs in individual and group counseling.
The MA in Art Therapy Counseling program integrates students’ knowledge of visual arts and art processes with the study of psychotherapy and counseling.
The Program
Art therapy is about human health and recovery. At Marylhurst, art experiences are integrated with most of the core classes. Students use creative work to understand theories of art therapy, clients and therapeutic relationships. While this artistic focus may be different from the student’s prior experience, it does lead to the creation of authentic and aesthetically satisfying work.
In this program, students:
Develop professional skills to prepare for clinical work
Earn a master's degree in as little as two years on a full- or part-time basis
Gain extensive experience in therapeutic settings through the art therapy practicum
The Practicum
During the first year, students experience the clinical work environment through four hours of work in the field each week. The second year revolves around an intensive practicum in a clinical setting, requiring 240 hours at the practicum site each term (fall, winter and spring). During this time, the student provides 12 hours of direct art therapy services weekly. The Art Therapy Counseling faculty work closely with students in the placement process and provide support through individual consultation.
Registered Art Therapists
Graduates of Marylhurst’s AATA-approved master's program may apply for the professional credential of registered art therapist (ATR) following completion of 1,000 hours of supervised post-master's art therapy experience. (Degree programs without AATA approval require additional hours.)
State Licensing
The MA in Art Therapy Counseling Program meets the educational requirements of Oregon's state licensing board for professional counselors and therapists, the National Board for Certified Counselors and the American Art Therapy Association's credentialing board.
Check with your own state regarding its licensing requirements for professional counselors.
Career Paths
Graduates of the Marylhurst program are working in outpatient counseling clinics, schools and hospitals – both psychiatric and medical, day treatment and residential treatment programs. They serve as primary and adjunctive therapists. In most cases, they are part of a treatment team working collaboratively with other clinicians.
The Master of Arts in Art Therapy Counseling curriculum meets the educational requirements for licensure as a professional counselor (LPC) in Oregon. Graduates are eligible to become qualified mental health professionals (QMHP) in Oregon. They are also eligible to apply to become nationally board certified counselors.
Outstanding Faculty
Art Therapy Counseling faculty consists of practicing art therapists, counselors, psychologists and researchers who have chosen to enhance their personal and professional lives by making a commitment to educating the next generation of therapists.