Therapy in creative arts includes art, dance, and music. These therapies involve the respective application of the principles and techniques of each art form in a prescribed and scientific manner to accomplish restoration, maintenance, and improvement of physical and mental health. Each of these therapies attempts to bring about positive changes in patients' behavior, such as extended attention span, improved coordination, increased verbalization and increased socialization. Conducting research and teaching students and other professionals are also aspects of this career. Creative arts therapies may serve as one integral part of a larger treatment program or actually act as the primary method of therapy. These types of therapies are used in treatment plans for emotionally disturbed, handicapped, mentally retarded, and physically or learning disabled patients. However, normal children and adults may also benefit from the programs. In addition to the music, dance and art therapists, the therapeutic team may include physicians, psychiatrists, psychologists, teachers, nurses, and families of patients. This team develops and implements treatment plans as well as analyzes their effectiveness.

Art Therapists are required to have a master’s degree from an accredited art therapy program. To become a Registered Art Therapist (ATR) with the American Art Therapy Association, an applicant must complete 1,000 hours of supervised postgraduate service. Dance Therapists must have a masters degree in dance therapy or a related field. There are two levels of national registration. Registered Dance Therapists (DTR) are qualified to work in a professional treatment system, and Registered Academy of Dance Therapists (ADTR) are qualified to teach, provide supervision, and engage in private practice. Music Therapists can seek a Bachelors or Masters degree. They are required to serve a 1,040 hour clinical internship at an approved facility prior to certification. The National Association for Music Therapy provides certification as a Registered Music Therapist (RMT), and the American Association for Music Therapy provides certification as a Certified Music Therapist (CMT).

• Masters Degree

$40,000

• Avila University
• Emporia State University

• Aft Healthcare
• American Art Therapy Association
• American Dance Therapy Association
• American Dance Therapy Association C/O The Tao Academy Of Kansas City
• American Music Therapy Association, Inc.
• The American Art Therapy Association, Inc.