Skip to main content
The New York State Education Department (“SED”) Office of the Professions (“OP”) is alerting everyone to a vishing scam that has been brought to our attention. Phishing—or “vishing”—scams impersonate SED employees or websites attempting to collect licensure and personal information from the licensee. If you receive an inquiry which you believe to be suspicious do not provide any information. To verify if the inquiry was from OP, contact us directly. You may report any suspicious communication received to the Federal Trade Commission.
  • NYSED Homepage
  • Disclaimer
  • Contact Us
  • NYSED Employment
  • Board Members Only
Creative Arts Therapist

Creative Arts Therapist

Creative arts therapists train in both psychotherapy and creative arts, including dance, drama, music, poetry, and art therapies. These professionals assess and guide patients, helping them to use art to cope with the symptoms of stress, illness, and trauma; improve self-esteem and awareness; and develop more effective communication skills.

 

 

Salary and Projected Growth

Median salary: $63,832

Salary range: $47,457 - 74,733

Projected growth: faster than average

Where Could I Work?

Private or group practice

Hospitals and nursing homes

Schools and community centers

Group homes, half-way houses

Behavioral health agencies and programs

Your Interests and Abilities

Psychology - including developmental and abnormal

Therapy and counseling

Diversity and cultural competency

Discipline-specific theory and skills

Professional Skills

Concern for others

Dependability

Innovation

Creativity

Education
Image
Education Requirements

Complete a master’s or doctoral degree in a Department-registered Creative Arts Therapy licensure program, or the equivalent, as determined by the Department

Experience
Image
Music therapy session

Complete at least 1,500 hours of post-degree supervised experience in the practice of Creative Arts Therapy, including direct work with clients in an acceptable setting

Examination
Image
Adult learning for student university study in class, hand note lecture in notebook for exam

Board Certification examination administered by the Art Therapy Credential Board or Certification Board for Music Therapist; or New York State Case Narrative Examination

What Interests You?

Match your interests and personality to career options! Explore a free career tool at mynextmove.org/explore/ip

Tip: try searching for mentoring programs—talk to a creative arts therapist about what they do and how they got started!

Image
OP