Art therapist

Also known as

Creative arts therapist, arts therapist, expressive arts therapist, visual arts therapist, drama therapist, dance therapist, creative writing therapist

AUT programmes

• Counselling Major - Bachelor of Health Science
• Psychology Major - Bachelor of Health Science
• Psychology Major - Bachelor of Arts

Work environment

• Usually work irregular hours and may work part time
• Usually work in community health centres, private clinics, hospitals, prisons and schools and may travel locally
• May do emotionally demanding work
• Need to be creative, organised and communicate well

Typical tasks

• Monitor patient progress or responses to treatments
• Record patient medical histories
• Develop treatment plans that use non-medical therapies
• Treat patients using psychological therapies
• Evaluate patient outcomes to determine effectiveness of treatments
• Analyse patient data to determine patient needs or treatment goals
• Collaborate with health care professionals to plan or provide treatment
• Interact with patients to build rapport or provide emotional support
• Prepare reports summarising patient diagnostic or care activities
• Select medical equipment for addressing patient needs

Salary information

Tips from AUT graduates

Outlook

What employers and industry want in graduates

Further study options