Occupation AtlasArt Therapists
O*NET · 29-1129.01
Art Therapists
Plan or conduct art therapy sessions or programs to improve clients' physical, cognitive, or emotional well-being.
Also called Activity Therapist · Activity Therapy Specialist · Art Psychotherapist · Art Therapy Specialist · ATR · ATR (Registered Art Therapist) · ATR-BC · ATR-BC (Board Certified Art Therapist)
12 more
Certified Art Therapist · Clinical Art Therapist · Creative Arts Therapist · Creative Therapist · Expressive Arts Therapist · Expressive Therapist · Hospice Art Therapist · Medical Art Therapist · Oncology Art Therapist · Outpatient Therapist · Rehabilitation Creative Therapist · Therapist
Compare with another occupationCompare with Substance Abuse and Behavioral Disorder Counselors
Job Zone
- 1
- 2
- 3
- 4
- 5
Zone 5: Extensive Preparation Needed
Extensive preparation. Usually a graduate degree, with extensive skill, knowledge and experience — many of these occupations expect more than five years of experience.
Job Zone is O*NET's rating of how much education, experience and training an occupation typically needs — a property of the work, not of anyone doing it.
Occupational interest profile
SAISocial · Artistic · Investigative — the three strongest interests, in order
- S Social5.64
- A Artistic5.49
- I Investigative3.67
- R Realistic2.99
- C Conventional2.86
- E Enterprising2.32
RIASEC (Holland) interests on O*NET's 0–7 scale: what the work draws on, not what any individual prefers. Hover a row for what each dimension means.
Education and experience
The education level respondents say the job requires, and the most common answer for experience and training.
- Related work experience
- Over 1 year, up to and including 2 years (40%)
- On-site or in-plant training
- Up to and including 1 month (31%)
- On-the-job training
- Anything beyond short demonstration, up to and including 1 month (31%)
Typically associated skills
All 35 O*NET skills, most important first. Importance (1–5) says how much a skill matters here; level (0–7) says how much of it the work calls for, with O*NET's example of a nearby level. Neither is a proficiency rating of a person.
- Social PerceptivenessImportance 4.3Level 5.0Level 4 looks like: Be aware of how a coworker's promotion will affect a work group
- Active ListeningbasicImportance 4.0Level 4.0Level 4 looks like: Answer inquiries regarding credit references
- MonitoringbasicImportance 4.0Level 4.0Level 4 looks like: Monitor a meeting and revise the agenda to ensure important topics are discussed
- SpeakingbasicImportance 4.0Level 4.0Level 4 looks like: Interview applicants to obtain personal and work history
- Critical ThinkingbasicImportance 3.9Level 4.0Level 4 looks like: Evaluate customer complaints and determine appropriate responses
- Judgment and Decision MakingImportance 3.9Level 4.0Level 4 looks like: Evaluate a loan application for degree of risk
- Service OrientationImportance 3.9Level 4.0Level 4 looks like: Make flight reservations for customers using an online booking site
- Reading ComprehensionbasicImportance 3.8Level 4.0Level 4 looks like: Understand an email from management describing new personnel policies
- WritingbasicImportance 3.8Level 4.0Level 4 looks like: Write an email to staff outlining new directives
- Active LearningbasicImportance 3.6Level 3.9Level 4 looks like: Determine the impact of new menu changes on a restaurant's purchasing requirements
- Complex Problem SolvingImportance 3.4Level 3.8Level 4 looks like: Redesign a floor layout to take advantage of new manufacturing techniques
- Learning StrategiesbasicImportance 3.1Level 3.8Level 4 looks like: Identify an alternative approach to help trainees who are having difficulties
Show the other 23
- Time ManagementImportance 3.1Level 3.4Level 4 looks like: Allocate the time of subordinates to projects for the coming week
- Systems EvaluationImportance 3.1Level 3.3Level 4 looks like: Identify the reasons why a client might be unhappy with a product
- CoordinationImportance 3.1Level 3.1Level 4 looks like: Work with others to put a new roof on a house
- Systems AnalysisImportance 3.1Level 3.1Level 4 looks like: Determine how a new piece of equipment will affect production rates
- InstructingImportance 3.0Level 3.1Level 4 looks like: Instruct a coworker in how to operate a software program
- NegotiationImportance 3.0Level 3.0Level 2 looks like: Present justification to a manager for altering a work schedule
- PersuasionImportance 3.0Level 3.0Level 2 looks like: Solicit donations for a charity
- Management of Personnel ResourcesImportance 2.9Level 3.0Level 2 looks like: Encourage a coworker who is having difficulty finishing a project
- Operations AnalysisImportance 2.1Level 2.1Level 2 looks like: Select a printer for an office
- MathematicsbasicImportance 2.0Level 2.0Level 2 looks like: Count the amount of change to be given to a customer
- SciencebasicImportance 1.9Level 1.6Level 2 looks like: Conduct standard tests to determine soil quality
- Operations MonitoringImportance 1.9Level 0.9
- Technology DesignImportance 1.9Level 0.9
- Equipment SelectionImportance 1.8Level 0.9
- ProgrammingImportance 1.8Level 0.9
- Management of Material ResourcesImportance 1.6Level 0.8
- Quality Control AnalysisImportance 1.6Level 0.8
- Management of Financial ResourcesImportance 1.4Level 0.4
- Equipment MaintenanceImportance 1.0Level —
- InstallationImportance 1.0Level —
- Operation and ControlImportance 1.0Level —
- RepairingImportance 1.0Level —
- TroubleshootingImportance 1.0Level —
Tasks
22 core · 3 supplementalWhat people in this occupation do, as O*NET records it, core tasks first by importance (1–5).
- Conduct art therapy sessions, providing guided self-expression experiences to help clients recover from, or cope with, cognitive, emotional, or physical impairments.Importance 5.0
- Talk with clients during art or other therapy sessions to build rapport, acknowledge their progress, or reflect upon their reactions to the artistic process.Importance 4.9
- Write treatment plans, case summaries, or progress or other reports related to individual clients or client groups.Importance 4.8
- Assess client needs or disorders, using drawing, painting, sculpting, or other artistic processes.Importance 4.7
- Design art therapy sessions or programs to meet client's goals or objectives.Importance 4.7
- Develop individualized treatment plans that incorporate studio art therapy, counseling, or psychotherapy techniques.Importance 4.7
- Observe and document client reactions, progress, or other outcomes related to art therapy.Importance 4.7
- Establish goals or objectives for art therapy sessions in consultation with clients or site administrators.Importance 4.6
- Select or prepare artistic media or related equipment or devices to accomplish therapy session objectives.Importance 4.5
- Communicate client assessment findings and recommendations in oral, written, audio, video, or other forms.Importance 4.4
- Customize art therapy programs for specific client populations, such as those in schools, nursing homes, wellness centers, prisons, shelters, or hospitals.Importance 4.4
- Confer with other professionals on client's treatment team to develop, coordinate, or integrate treatment plans.Importance 4.3
Show the other 13
- Recommend or purchase needed art supplies or equipment.Importance 4.3
- Interpret the artistic creations of clients to assess their functioning, needs, or progress.Importance 4.1
- Gather client information from sources such as case documentation, client observation, or interviews of client or family members.Importance 4.1
- Analyze or synthesize client data to draw conclusions or make recommendations for art therapy.Importance 4.0
- Review research or literature in art therapy, psychology, or related disciplines.Importance 4.0
- Analyze data to determine the effectiveness of treatments or therapy approaches.Importance 3.8
- Instruct individuals or groups in the use of art media, such as paint, clay, or yarn.Importance 3.8
- Supervise staff, volunteers, practicum students, or interns.Importance 3.7
- Conduct information sharing sessions, such as in-service workshops for other professionals, potential client groups, or the general community.Importance 3.5
- Photograph or videotape client artwork for inclusion in client records or for promotional purposes.Importance 3.4
- Teach art therapy techniques or processes to artists, interns, volunteers, or others.Importance 3.2
- Coordinate art showcases to display artwork produced by clients.Importance 2.4
- Coordinate field trips for client groups to museums or other public displays of art.Importance 2.3
Knowledge
Bodies of knowledge the work draws on.
- PsychologyImportance 5.0Level 7.0Level 7 looks like: Treat a person with a severe mental illness
- Therapy and CounselingImportance 5.0Level 6.9Level 7 looks like: Counsel an abused child
- Fine ArtsImportance 4.5Level 6.0Level 7 looks like: Design an exhibit for a major art show
- Sociology and AnthropologyImportance 4.1Level 5.0Level 4 looks like: Write an article about cultural differences
- Customer and Personal ServiceImportance 4.0Level 5.6
- English LanguageImportance 3.6Level 4.4Level 4 looks like: Edit an article for a news website
- Education and TrainingImportance 3.3Level 4.6Level 4 looks like: Lead a quality improvement seminar
- AdministrativeImportance 3.2Level 4.0Level 4 looks like: Type 30 words per minute
Show all 33
- Philosophy and TheologyImportance 3.0Level 4.1Level 4 looks like: Understand another culture's religious practices
- Administration and ManagementImportance 2.9Level 3.8Level 4 looks like: Monitor progress of a project to ensure timely completion
- Law and GovernmentImportance 2.8Level 3.0Level 4 looks like: Prepare documents and title papers for the purchase of a new house
- Communications and MediaImportance 2.7Level 3.1Level 4 looks like: Host a music radio show
- Medicine and DentistryImportance 2.5Level 1.8Level 1 looks like: Use a band-aid
- Public Safety and SecurityImportance 2.5Level 2.4Level 1 looks like: Use a seatbelt
- Computers and ElectronicsImportance 2.3Level 3.1Level 4 looks like: Use a computer to format a document
- History and ArcheologyImportance 2.3Level 2.3Level 1 looks like: Take a class in US history
- DesignImportance 2.0Level 1.8Level 1 looks like: Draw a straight line 4 3/16 inches long
- Personnel and Human ResourcesImportance 2.0Level 2.2Level 1 looks like: Fill out a medical claim form
- Sales and MarketingImportance 2.0Level 2.6
- TelecommunicationsImportance 2.0Level 1.7Level 1 looks like: Send an email
- Economics and AccountingImportance 1.9Level 1.5Level 1 looks like: Answer billing questions from credit card customers
- Foreign LanguageImportance 1.8Level 1.5Level 1 looks like: Say "please" and "thank you" in a foreign language
- MathematicsImportance 1.7Level 1.9Level 1 looks like: Add two numbers
- BiologyImportance 1.6Level 1.1Level 1 looks like: Feed domestic animals
- ChemistryImportance 1.5Level 1.3Level 1 looks like: Use a common household bug spray
- GeographyImportance 1.5Level 1.4Level 1 looks like: Know the capital of the United States
- MechanicalImportance 1.4Level 0.8Level 1 looks like: Replace the filters in a furnace
- Building and ConstructionImportance 1.3Level —
- PhysicsImportance 1.3Level —
- Production and ProcessingImportance 1.3Level 0.6Level 1 looks like: Put a computer back into its packing materials
- TransportationImportance 1.3Level 0.5Level 1 looks like: Ride a train to work
- Engineering and TechnologyImportance 1.2Level —
- Food ProductionImportance 1.0Level —
Abilities
Enduring capacities the work calls for.
- Oral ExpressionImportance 4.0Level 4.3Level 4 looks like: Give instructions to a lost motorist
- Inductive ReasoningImportance 3.9Level 4.0Level 4 looks like: Determine the prime suspect based on crime scene evidence
- Near VisionImportance 3.9Level 4.0Level 5 looks like: Read the fine print of a legal document
- Oral ComprehensionImportance 3.9Level 4.4Level 4 looks like: Understand a coach's oral instructions for a sport
- Problem SensitivityImportance 3.9Level 4.0Level 4 looks like: Notice from a subtle difference in a client's mood that something is bothering them
- Speech ClarityImportance 3.9Level 3.6Level 4 looks like: Make stadium-wide announcements during a sporting event
- Speech RecognitionImportance 3.9Level 3.9Level 4 looks like: Identify a former customer's voice over the phone
- Written ComprehensionImportance 3.9Level 4.0Level 4 looks like: Understand an apartment lease
Show all 52
- Written ExpressionImportance 3.9Level 4.0Level 4 looks like: Write a job recommendation for a subordinate
- Deductive ReasoningImportance 3.8Level 4.0Level 5 looks like: Decide what factors to consider in selecting stocks
- Fluency of IdeasImportance 3.8Level 3.9Level 4 looks like: Think of as many ideas as possible for the name of a new company
- OriginalityImportance 3.4Level 3.9Level 4 looks like: Redesign job tasks to be interesting for employees
- Selective AttentionImportance 3.3Level 3.0Level 2 looks like: Answer a business call with coworkers talking nearby
- Category FlexibilityImportance 3.1Level 3.0Level 3 looks like: Classify flowers according to size, color, and smell
- Information OrderingImportance 3.0Level 3.6Level 2 looks like: Follow the correct steps to make change
- Visual Color DiscriminationImportance 3.0Level 3.0Level 4 looks like: Trace electrical circuits marked by various colored wires
- VisualizationImportance 3.0Level 3.0Level 2 looks like: Imagine how to place paper in a printer so that the letterhead comes out on top
- Far VisionImportance 2.9Level 3.0Level 2 looks like: Read a roadside billboard
- Flexibility of ClosureImportance 2.9Level 2.9Level 2 looks like: Detect that your phone is ringing while at a concert
- Speed of ClosureImportance 2.8Level 2.6Level 3 looks like: Recognize a song after hearing only the first few notes
- Arm-Hand SteadinessImportance 2.6Level 2.6Level 2 looks like: Light a candle
- Finger DexterityImportance 2.6Level 2.8Level 2 looks like: Put coins in a parking meter
- Manual DexterityImportance 2.5Level 2.0Level 1 looks like: Screw a light bulb into a light socket
- Time SharingImportance 2.4Level 2.1Level 2 looks like: Listen to music while entering numbers into a spreadsheet
- Auditory AttentionImportance 2.1Level 2.0Level 2 looks like: Listen to a lecture while people nearby are talking
- MemorizationImportance 2.1Level 2.1Level 1 looks like: Remember the number on your bus to be sure you get back on the right one
- Multilimb CoordinationImportance 2.1Level 1.4Level 2 looks like: Row a boat
- Perceptual SpeedImportance 2.1Level 2.0Level 2 looks like: Sort mail according to ZIP codes with no time pressure
- Control PrecisionImportance 2.0Level 1.6Level 2 looks like: Adjust a room light with a dimmer switch
- Explosive StrengthImportance 2.0Level 1.0Level 2 looks like: Hit a nail with a hammer
- Hearing SensitivityImportance 2.0Level 1.8Level 2 looks like: Notice a doorbell ringing
- Mathematical ReasoningImportance 2.0Level 1.9Level 1 looks like: Determine how much 20 oranges will cost when they are priced at 5 for 4 dollars
- Number FacilityImportance 2.0Level 2.0Level 1 looks like: Add 2 and 7
- Static StrengthImportance 2.0Level 1.8Level 1 looks like: Push an empty shopping cart
- Trunk StrengthImportance 2.0Level 1.3Level 2 looks like: Sit up in an office chair
- Response OrientationImportance 1.9Level 1.0Level 2 looks like: When a doorbell and phone ring at the same time, quickly select which to answer first
- StaminaImportance 1.9Level 0.9Level 1 looks like: Walk 1/4 mile
- Wrist-Finger SpeedImportance 1.9Level 1.0Level 2 looks like: Use a screwdriver to twist in a screw
- Gross Body CoordinationImportance 1.8Level 0.8
- Gross Body EquilibriumImportance 1.8Level 0.8
- Reaction TimeImportance 1.8Level 0.8
- Extent FlexibilityImportance 1.5Level 0.5
- Dynamic StrengthImportance 1.3Level —
- Speed of Limb MovementImportance 1.3Level —
- Depth PerceptionImportance 1.0Level —
- Dynamic FlexibilityImportance 1.0Level —
- Glare SensitivityImportance 1.0Level —
- Night VisionImportance 1.0Level —
- Peripheral VisionImportance 1.0Level —
- Rate ControlImportance 1.0Level —
- Sound LocalizationImportance 1.0Level —
- Spatial OrientationImportance 1.0Level —
Work activities
Kinds of activity the work is made of.
- Assisting and Caring for OthersImportance 4.8Level 5.9
- Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal RelationshipsImportance 4.7Level 5.7
- Thinking CreativelyImportance 4.6Level 5.8
- Documenting/Recording InformationImportance 4.4Level 4.5Level 4 looks like: Document the results of a crime scene investigation
- Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or SubordinatesImportance 4.2Level 5.0Level 4 looks like: Report the results of a sales meeting to a supervisor
- Developing Objectives and StrategiesImportance 4.2Level 4.6Level 4 looks like: Develop the plan to complete the merger of two organizations over a 3-year period
- Getting InformationImportance 4.2Level 5.0Level 4 looks like: Review a budget
- Making Decisions and Solving ProblemsImportance 4.1Level 4.9Level 4 looks like: Select the location for a major retail store
Show all 41
- Updating and Using Relevant KnowledgeImportance 4.1Level 5.1Level 4 looks like: Keep current on changes in maintenance procedures for repairing sports cars
- Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing WorkImportance 3.9Level 4.9Level 4 looks like: Plan and adjust a personal to-do list according to changing demands
- Resolving Conflicts and Negotiating with OthersImportance 3.9Level 4.5Level 4 looks like: Get two subordinates to agree about vacation schedules
- Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with StandardsImportance 3.8Level 4.6Level 4 looks like: Evaluate a complicated insurance claim for compliance with policy terms
- Identifying Objects, Actions, and EventsImportance 3.7Level 5.0Level 4 looks like: Judge the suitability of food products for an event
- Interpreting the Meaning of Information for OthersImportance 3.7Level 3.7Level 4 looks like: Interpret how foreign tax laws apply to U.S. exports
- Monitoring Processes, Materials, or SurroundingsImportance 3.7Level 5.0Level 4 looks like: Test electrical circuits
- Performing for or Working Directly with the PublicImportance 3.6Level 4.2Level 4 looks like: Sell shoes in a crowded shoe store
- Working with ComputersImportance 3.6Level 2.9
- Providing Consultation and Advice to OthersImportance 3.5Level 3.8Level 4 looks like: Recommend a new software package to increase operational efficiency
- Scheduling Work and ActivitiesImportance 3.5Level 3.4Level 4 looks like: Prepare the work schedule for salesclerks in a large retail store
- Performing Administrative ActivitiesImportance 3.4Level 3.4Level 4 looks like: Complete tax forms for a small business
- Coaching and Developing OthersImportance 3.3Level 4.2Level 4 looks like: Provide on-the-job training for administrative workers
- Judging the Qualities of Objects, Services, or PeopleImportance 3.3Level 3.8Level 4 looks like: Determine the value of property lost in a fire
- Communicating with People Outside the OrganizationImportance 3.2Level 4.4Level 4 looks like: Present information to potential clients about available services
- Developing and Building TeamsImportance 3.1Level 3.2Level 4 looks like: Lead an assembly team in an automobile plant
- Training and Teaching OthersImportance 3.1Level 4.1Level 4 looks like: Teach a social sciences course to high school students
- Analyzing Data or InformationImportance 2.9Level 3.3Level 4 looks like: Determine the interest cost to finance a new building
- Coordinating the Work and Activities of OthersImportance 2.9Level 3.3Level 4 looks like: Organize the cleanup crew after a major sporting event
- Processing InformationImportance 2.9Level 3.5Level 4 looks like: Calculate the adjustments for insurance claims
- Handling and Moving ObjectsImportance 2.8Level 3.6Level 4 looks like: Arrange books in a library
- Guiding, Directing, and Motivating SubordinatesImportance 2.6Level 2.9
- Performing General Physical ActivitiesImportance 2.5Level 2.8
- Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or MaterialsImportance 2.4Level 2.5Level 1 looks like: Check that doors to building are locked
- Monitoring and Controlling ResourcesImportance 2.4Level 3.0Level 4 looks like: Work as a chef responsible for ordering food for the menu
- Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or InformationImportance 2.3Level 2.0Level 1 looks like: Estimate the size of household furniture to be shipped
- Selling or Influencing OthersImportance 1.9Level 2.0Level 1 looks like: Convince a coworker to assist with an assignment
- Controlling Machines and ProcessesImportance 1.7Level 1.2Level 1 looks like: Operate a cash register
- Staffing Organizational UnitsImportance 1.7Level 1.6Level 1 looks like: Work in a position that has minimal staffing requirements
- Drafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and EquipmentImportance 1.4Level —
- Repairing and Maintaining Mechanical EquipmentImportance 1.4Level 0.6Level 1 looks like: Make simple, external adjustments to a door hinge with ordinary hand tools
- Operating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or EquipmentImportance 1.3Level 0.5Level 1 looks like: Drive a car
- Repairing and Maintaining Electronic EquipmentImportance 1.2Level —
Work context
The conditions most characteristic of the work, on O*NET's 1–5 context scale.
Technology
19 toolsSoftware used in this work. In demand: among the tools job postings for this occupation name most. Hot: often named in job postings across the economy.
Hot (14)
- Adobe Acrobat
- Adobe After Effects
- Adobe Creative Cloud software
- Adobe Illustrator
- Adobe InDesign
- Adobe Photoshop
- IBM SPSS Statistics
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Office software
- Microsoft Outlook
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Microsoft Word
- Trimble SketchUp Pro
- Zoom
Other tools (5)
- Appointment scheduling software
- Autodesk Maya
- Case management software
- Image databases
- Web browser software
Related occupations
O*NET's own list of the occupations most related to this one, closest first.
ESCO equivalents
From the official ESCO–O*NET crosswalk, strongest match first. A broader occupation takes in this one; a narrower one is a part of it.
Closest occupations
Compare any occupation →Other O*NET occupations whose importance ratings on the 35 skills both rate are nearest to this one's, with the biggest differences named. A plain rule, not a hidden score.
Substance Abuse and Behavioral Disorder Counselors
Average difference 0.2 points · Persuasion +0.9, Equipment Selection −0.8
O*NET · Zone 5 · Compare
Rehabilitation Counselors
Average difference 0.2 points · Coordination +0.9, Equipment Selection −0.8
O*NET · Zone 5 · Compare
Equal Opportunity Representatives and Officers
Average difference 0.2 points · Service Orientation −0.8, Equipment Selection −0.7
O*NET · Zone 4 · Compare
Music Therapists
Average difference 0.2 points · Troubleshooting +1.0, Learning Strategies +0.7
O*NET · Zone 4 · Compare
Adapted Physical Education Specialists
Average difference 0.2 points · Instructing +1.1, Learning Strategies +0.9
O*NET · Zone 4 · Compare
Elementary School Teachers, Except Special Education
Average difference 0.2 points · Instructing +1.3, Learning Strategies +1.2
O*NET · Zone 4 · Compare
Mental Health Counselors
Average difference 0.2 points · Active Listening +1.0, Science +0.9
O*NET · Zone 5 · Compare
Community Health Workers
Average difference 0.2 points · Equipment Selection −0.8, Technology Design −0.8
O*NET · Zone 4 · Compare
Use this in your own job architecture
BlissPoint Organization Viewer can link a role directly to this occupation and suggest these skills as that role's starting requirements.
This page includes information from the O*NET 31.0 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under the CC BY 4.0 license; O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. ESCO occupations and skills are from the European Commission's ESCO classification, and the occupation crosswalk is the official ESCO–O*NET mapping by the ESCO Secretariat with USDOL/ETA. This service uses the ESCO classification of the European Commission. BlissPoint Analytics has modified all or some of this information: skill, task and descriptor ratings are rounded to one decimal, and ESCO occupations show Job Zone and interests copied from a crosswalked O*NET occupation. USDOL/ETA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications.