How to become
You can get into this job through a university course or an apprenticeship.
University
You'll need to complete a postgraduate qualification approved by the Health and Care Professions Council.
Full time postgraduate courses normally take 2 years to complete. Part time courses take 3 years.
You should have a degree in art or creative therapies to do a postgraduate course.
You may be able to apply if you've got a degree in a related subject, for example psychology, nursing or social work.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study
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Apprenticeship
You may be able to do an arts therapist degree apprenticeship.
You'll usually need a qualification or experience in art, drama or music to apply.
Entry requirements
To do this apprenticeship, you'll need:
- entry requirements vary
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Volunteering
You can get paid or volunteering experience with:
- community arts projects
- youth work charities
- disabled people
- people with mental health issues
Volunteering in the NHS is also a good way to get work experience in healthcare. This can be helpful when you apply for jobs or training.
You can also find opportunities through The National Council for Voluntary Organisations (NCVO) and Do it.
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Registration
- you'll need to register with the Health and Care Professions Council
Career tips
You could try an introduction or foundation course in art therapy to give you an idea of what the work is like.
When applying for jobs, you would be expected to have an understanding of how the NHS values would apply in your work.
Professional and industry bodies
You can join the British Association of Art Therapists for access to professional development and networking opportunities.
Further information
You'll find more details about this career, courses and training through the British Association of Art Therapists and Health Careers.
You can also explore other careers in the psychological professions.