What jobs can an art therapist take on?

I've been thinking about studying art therapy in college, but I'm not sure what kind of jobs art therapists typically do. Can anyone provide some examples of what a career in this field might look like?

A degree in art therapy can open a variety of career paths. The most straightforward job you might consider is, of course, an art therapist. Art therapists use the creation and interpretation of art to help their clients express feelings and cope with emotional, cognitive, or physical difficulties. This job typically involves working in a variety of settings such as:

1. Hospitals: Treating patients with serious physical illnesses or injuries.

2. Mental Health Facilities: Assisting people with mental health disorders.

3. Rehabilitation Centers: Helping people recover from addiction or physical trauma.

4. Schools: Assisting students with special needs, emotional issues, or learning disabilities.

5. Private Practice: Offering art therapy services to clients individually or in groups.

With that said, there are also several related positions that your skills and training would apply to. You could become a recreational therapist, utilizing art in broader therapeutic recreational programs. You might also find work as a school or career counselor, leveraging your understanding of psychology and therapy to help students and job seekers.

Additionally, art therapists can branch out into administrative roles or education or become consultants for larger organizations, such as nonprofits. These positions might involve designing and implementing art therapy programs and training for other professionals.

So while the most obvious job for an art therapist is in direct patient care, your training could lead you in many different, rewarding directions!