Art therapists use art materials to provide therapy to children, adolescents, and adults of all ages in individual, couple, family, and group therapy. Art making promotes self-awareness and encourages discussion about thoughts and feelings suggested by the artwork. Art therapy is used in prevention, assessment, and treatment. Art therapists work in agencies that provide mental health services: psychiatric hospitals; rehabilitation, medical, and psychiatric units in medical centers; community mental health agencies; community service agencies; residential and day schools; and correctional facilities.
The art therapist may be either a primary or adjunctive therapist determined by agency treatment procedures. Some art therapists have a private practice or are members of a group practice.© Copyright 2008 Art Therapy Association of Vermont