How to become a dramatherapist
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- an apprenticeship
University
You'll need to complete a postgraduate qualification in dramatherapy, accredited by the British Association of Dramatherapists.
To apply, you'll need a first degree in a subject like:
- drama
- creative therapies
- psychology
You may also be able to apply if you've got a degree in a related subject, like occupational therapy, nursing or social work.
You'll be expected to have:
- practical drama experience
- voluntary or paid experience in helping people to deal with issues like mental health
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 and experience in art, drama or music to apply.
Entry requirements
To do this apprenticeship, you'll need:
- a degree in a relevant subject for a degree apprenticeship
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Volunteering
You'll need paid or voluntary experience of working in the community on drama projects, in youth work, or with people with disabilities or mental health issues.
You could contact the voluntary services co-ordinator at your local NHS trust for further advice.
You can also find volunteering opportunities through The National Council for Voluntary Organisations and Do IT.
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Registration
- you'll need to register with the Health and Care Professions Council
Career tips
It may help if you've got a background in teaching, acting, nursing or social work.
Professional and industry bodies
You could join the British Association of Dramatherapists for professional recognition and training and development opportunities.
Further information
You can find advice about how to become a dramatherapist from the British Association of Dramatherapists and Health Careers.
You can also find out more about working in creative careers from Discover Creative Careers.