What types of duties are commonly listed in job postings for art therapists? How often do they appear? What are the requirements?

Job postings for art therapist positions list all the requirements a company has for potential employees for a given role. Job seekers can find all the important information about the position they’re looking for in these job listings, such as:

  • the activities
  • the employer's requirements (previous education, professional experience, personal skills and characteristics)
  • Further information about the employer

 

Different job titles:

  • Art Therapist
  • Art Therapist
  • Creative Therapist
  • Art Therapist
  • Art Therapist
  • Art Therapist
  • Art Education Therapist
  • Art Therapy Counselor

 

Breakdown of the various responsibilities in an art therapist position:

Art therapy treatment of patients in inpatient or outpatient facilities or in your own practice

 approx. 40% of the time

Care and activation of people in institutions (homes, retirement homes, clinics, etc.)

 approx. 25% of the time

Planning and documenting therapy, working in an interprofessional team, writing reports

 approx. 20% of the time

Administration, appointment scheduling, health insurance billing, etc.

 approx. 15% of the time

Requirements listed in job postings for art therapist positions

The duties and requirements described here are based on an analysis of relevant job postings on various Swiss job platforms and are intended to give you an idea of what it’s like to work as an art therapist. Requirements and responsibilities may vary depending on the employer, industry, and specific job description.

Professional requirements
  • Completed basic education or studies
  • Completed, certified training in a method of art therapy
  • Practical Experience
Expertise for the Art Therapist Job / Art Therapist Job
  • Artistic Skills
  • Experience in the application of art techniques
  • Understanding Psychological Theories
  • Knowledge about planning and conducting art therapy sessions
  • Knowledge of Evaluation and Documentation
Personal characteristics
  • High social competence and communication skills
  • Empathy and flexibility
  • Independence and personal responsibility
  • Stress Tolerance and Ability to Work in a Team
  • Willingness for interdisciplinary cooperation
Other Art Therapist Jobs / Art Therapist Jobs

A basic understanding of and skills in various art forms—such as painting, drawing, sculpture, and other media—are important for art therapists. It requires the ability to empathize with clients’ feelings and perspectives in order to support them effectively. Active listening is important, as is the ability to communicate clearly and empathetically with clients and other professionals. Also essential is the ability to notice and interpret subtle changes in clients’ behavior and artwork.

Useful Information on Job Search and Applications

Are you looking to advance your career or seeking a new challenge? Compare different job postings to find out what responsibilities, qualifications, and experience are required for a job as an art therapist. This will help you better assess which positions match your profile and whether targeted continuing education, further training is worth pursuing for your next career move.

Schools Offering Art Therapy Training for an Art Therapist Position / Art Therapist Job