Art Therapist
SOC 29-1129.01 · ESCO 2634 · OSCA 269932
Role snapshot
Overview
Guides clients through drawing, painting, and sculpting activities to help them process emotions, reduce anxiety, and build self-awareness. Assesses mental health needs, designs therapeutic art sessions, and documents client progress. Art therapists work with individuals and groups across various settings to promote healing, personal growth, and self-expression.
Facilitates emotional healing and personal growth by providing a non-verbal outlet for expression, helping clients cope with trauma, stress, and mental health challenges.
On the job
- Conduct initial assessments to understand client needs and goals.
- Design and facilitate individual and group art therapy sessions.
- Guide clients in using various art materials and techniques for self-expression.
- Observe and interpret client art and behavior during sessions.
- Document client progress, maintain case notes, and collaborate with other healthcare professionals.
Tools & technology
Average salary
Job outlook
GrowingJob growth is expected to be above average over the next five years.
Education & training
Master's degree in Art Therapy or a related field (e.g., Counseling, Psychology with a focus on Art Therapy).
Career pathways
WHERE YOU COULD GO
CURRENT ROLE
Art Therapist
Mental Health
ADJACENT MOVES
STARTING POINTS
Who thrives here
Interest profile
social · SAI
Individuals who enjoy helping others, expressing creativity, and understanding human behavior through observation and analysis are well-suited for art therapy.
Personality characteristics
Creative & Inquisitive
Continuously explores new art forms and therapeutic interventions to best support clients.
Organized & Ethical
Manages client caseloads, documentation, and adheres strictly to professional and ethical standards.
Engaging Facilitator
Comfortably guides individuals and groups through expressive art activities, fostering a safe and interactive environment.
Compassionate Listener
Approaches clients with deep empathy and patience, building trust and rapport to facilitate healing.
Emotionally Steady
Maintains composure and provides a grounding presence for clients, even when addressing difficult or traumatic experiences.
Best for
- Individuals passionate about mental health and the healing power of art.
- Those who thrive in one-on-one and group facilitation settings, guiding others through sensitive emotional work.
- Professionals who seek a career that combines creativity, empathy, and clinical rigor.
Watch out for
- Can be emotionally demanding, requiring strong self-care practices and supervision.
- Documentation and administrative tasks are a significant part of the role, balancing creative work with clinical responsibilities.
A week in the life
A representative working week for a Art Therapist — where the deep work, meetings, and admin actually land.
FREE ASSESSMENT
Does Art Therapist fit you?
Measure your personality and interests, then see how this career ranks against 1,300+ others — for you personally.
Take the free assessment →