As a qualified and registered art therapist, it always concerns me when I see or hear about non-art therapists offering art therapy. It is not the fear of “competition” that leads to my unease, but their serious potential to cause harm for the client. I have prepared this little diagram to highlight some of the things that could go wrong when an unqualified individual practices art therapy.

Art therapy in Australia requires master-level education (which includes 750 hours of clinical placement). To be eligible to apply for the master, one must have completed the relevant bachelor level education, two years of human services experience, and have had training in counselling. Post graduation, professional art therapists must keep up with continuous professional development and clinical supervision, and operate in line with the ethics code of the relevant professional bodies (eg. ANZACATA, ACA, PACFA). Art therapy is a profession!

I look forward to the day when Art Therapist becomes a protected title like in the UK. In the meantime, I will continue to work alongside my colleagues to deliver our work with high standard and integrity. And for those who are practicing art therapy without the appropriate qualification, perhaps you can channel your passion into obtaining an art therapy degree so we can continue to grow and advocate for the art therapy profession, while placing the client’s therapeutic needs and safety at the core of our work.