The Arizona Art Therapy Association is a non-profit, 501 (c) 3 organization.
As art therapy grows in popularity, there is often confusion between art making that has a therapeutic or calming by-product (such as art therapy coloring books), and art therapy as a therapeutic or mental health modality that is facilitated by a credentialed art therapist.
At times organizations and/or individuals falsely claim that they are providing art therapy services, when in fact they are not. Uninformed members of the public may be paying for services that they are not being provided. More importantly, however, this puts the public at risk.
AZATA is excited by the growing number of programs that recognize the healing aspects of creativity. We are dedicated to educating legislators, organizations, and members of the public on the delivery of ethical and appropriate art therapy services. We are available to assist the public in making discerning choices about their service providers and for organizations and individuals promote their programs within safe, ethical boundaries.
Art therapy is a voice and creative outlet for individuals with mental or chronic health issues.
In the state of Arizona and nationwide, art therapy is provided to tens of thousands of individuals in hospitals, prisons, schools, residential treatment facilities, assisted living facilities, day shelter and/or vocational rehabilitation programs, outpatient clinics, community centers and in private practices.
In each and every setting, services are provided or overseen by a credentialed art therapist(more, below).
Art therapists are helping professionals who have studied and understand topics such human growth and development; group dynamics; counseling theory; ethics and standards of practice. Their education and credentialing process mirrors the rigor of a Licensed Professional Counselor or other licensed mental health professional. Additionally, art therapists know how to use art and the creative process strategically and prescriptively to address client goals.
Art therapy is developmentally and multiculturally appropriate for every population.
Art therapy provides choices, and therefore empowerment, to individuals with disability.
Art Therapy Has Many Faces In Arizona...
who is served?
senior citizens keep their brains active through creativity and the socialization that art therapy programs provide.
Art therapy helps youth learn to improve communication skills and impulse control.
Are you interested in learning more?
Art therapy is provided to veterans, active military members and their families.
what qualifies an art therapist?
Art therapists are individuals who have:
- Achieved a minimum of a Master's Degree in Art Therapy from an accredited college, including at least 900 hours of supervised internship.
- Completed a minimum of 1,000 direct client contact hours after graduation, along with a minimum of 100 hours of supervision by a credentialed or licensed helping professional.
- Received a national credential by the Art Therapy Credentials Board (ATCB).
A chapter of the American Art THerapy Association