Credentials
In addition to rigorous academic and clinical training, art therapists require credentialing, administered on the national level by the Art Therapy Credentials Board (ATCB).
The ATCB manages the credentialing and testing processes of art therapists to ensure the professional and high-caliber practice of the profession. Their mission is to “protect the public by promoting the competent and ethical practice of art therapy through the credentialing of art therapy professionals.” (ATCB, 2018)
The ATCB administers the following credentials at the national level
Provisional Registered Art Therapist (ATR-Provisional)
Individuals who have completed their degree and are engaged in a supervisory relationship with a qualified supervisor(s). *ATR-Provisional is not a requirement to obtain ATR.
Registered Art Therapist (ATR)
Individuals who meet established standards, with successful completion of advanced specific graduate-level education in art therapy and supervised, post-graduate art therapy experience.
Board Certification (ATR-BC)
Individuals who complete the highest-level art therapy credential by passing The Art Therapy Credentials Board Examination (ATCBE), demonstrating comprehensive knowledge of the theories and clinical skills used in art therapy.
Art Therapy Certified Supervisor (ATCS)
Experienced Board Certified Art Therapists who provide clinical supervision and have acquired specific training and skills in clinical supervision.