Job Summary:

Plan or conduct art therapy sessions or programs to improve clients' physical, cognitive, or emotional well-being.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

• May supervise staff, volunteers, practicum students, or interns.

Duties/Responsibilities:

• Designs art therapy sessions or programs in consultation with clients or site administrators to meet client's goals and objectives. Gathers client information from sources such as case documentation, client observation, or interviews of client or family members.
• Assesses client needs or disorders using drawing, painting, sculpting, or other artistic processes. Analyzes or synthesizes client data to draw conclusions or make recommendations for art therapy. Selects or prepares artistic media or related equipment or devices to accomplish therapy session objectives.
• Develops individualized treatment plans that incorporate studio art therapy, counseling, or psychotherapy techniques. Provides guided self-expression experiences to help clients recover from or cope with cognitive, emotional, or physical impairments. Customizes art therapy programs for specific client populations such as those in schools, nursing homes, wellness centers, prisons, shelters, or hospitals.
• Builds rapport with clients while conducting art therapy. Observes and documents client reactions, progress, or other outcomes related to the artistic process.

• Writes treatment plans, case summaries or other reports related to individual clients or client groups. Communicates client assessment findings and recommendations in oral, written, audio, video, or other forms.
• Confers with other professionals on client's treatment team to develop, coordinate, or integrate treatment plans.
• Reviews research or literature in art therapy, psychology, or related disciplines. Teaches art therapy techniques or processes to artists, interns, volunteers, or others. Instructs individuals or groups in the use of art media such as paint, clay, or yarn. Conducts information sharing sessions such as in-service workshops for other professionals, potential client groups, or the general community.

Required Skills/Abilities:

• Excellent skills related to social perceptiveness and active listening.
• Excellent critical thinking, judgment, and decision-making skills.
• Strong knowledge of psychology, therapy and counseling.
• Familiarity with fine arts and artistic techniques.

Education and Experience:

• Master's degree in Art Therapy or related discipline and five years of related experience required.

Physical Requirements:

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• May be required to stand for extended periods.
• Must be able to lift up to 15 pounds at times.