Hi,

Generally a degree in art is not considered necessary. Certainly an interest in art and some ability argues in favour of success in the field. I am not an art therapist, however, I am a visual artist and a counsellor/therapist. I have read extensively in the discipline, but can't claim any specialized knowlege based on professional trainiing.

My (albeit limited) understanding is that the art stands between the client and therapist and becomes the target for transferance. Therefore, the quality of the therapist's own art is not an issue. It is what the client undertakes within the course of therapy that is important.

I would say that a technical command of media, including the implementation of safety/toxicity measures would be adequate. of course a visual artist who trains to become an art therapist will have an advantage over others who may be new to art as a profession.

In Canada, Athabaska University offers an Art Therapy specialty within their mostly on-line community counselling MA stream. Candidates do the art piece through the Art Therapy Institute of Vancouver. Similarly, the Open University of British Columbia was (and may still be) offering art therapy training in conjunction with the Ontario College of Art and Design in Toronto. I think that either McGill or Concordia Universities (not sure which) offers graduate education in Art Therapy.

Me, I am a Jungian counsellor and C.G.Jung was a pioneer in the use of art in analysis. I guess this is why I have a fondness for Art Therapy in my soul.

Cheers

Charles