Program Overview

Art Therapy Program

The Art Therapy program at Temple University offers a comprehensive education in the field of art therapy, with courses and training that prepare students for careers in this creative and rewarding field.

Undergraduate Courses

• ARTT 2011: Creative Process in Art Therapy: This course explores creativity theory and applies concepts from art therapy and related fields, presenting a blend of approaches including Eastern traditions, Jungian psychology, and other cross-cultural sources.
• ARTT 3004: Introduction to Art Therapy: This course provides a didactic and experiential overview of the field of art therapy, covering history, theory, and practice of art therapy processes and approaches, as well as a survey of populations, settings, and applications.
• ARTT 4082: Independent Study: Self-directed study and research initiated by a student with an independent study contract developed in conjunction with, and supervised by, a faculty member in art therapy.
• ARTT 4289: Field Work in Art Therapy: The course examines the important role of art making in promoting resilience in individuals, families, and communities, and explores the role the arts play in addressing issues of inequality and injustice.

Graduate Courses

• ARTT 8004: Introduction to Art Therapy: This course offers a didactic and experiential introductory overview of the field of art therapy, covering history, theory, and practice of art therapy processes and approaches.
• ARTT 8101: Foundations in Expressive Therapies: This course integrates expressive therapies, including art therapy, music therapy, drama therapy, and dance/movement therapy, exploring how these modalities can be applied to diverse populations and settings.
• ARTT 8102: Theoretical Foundations in Art Therapy, History, and Approaches: This course provides a comprehensive overview of the theoretical foundations, historical evolution, and various approaches within art therapy.
• ARTT 8103: Art Therapy Materials, Media, and Techniques: This course offers an in-depth exploration of the materials, media, and techniques used in art therapy, with hands-on experience and understanding of the therapeutic utility and psychological properties of various art processes and materials.
• ARTT 8104: Art Therapy Assessments and Treatment: This course provides a comprehensive overview of assessment methods within art therapy, teaching students how to use art-based tools and techniques to evaluate clients' psychological, emotional, and developmental needs.
• ARTT 8105: Art Therapy Research: This course focuses on equipping students with the skills necessary to conduct empirical research within art therapy, covering qualitative and quantitative research methodologies and ethical considerations.
• ARTT 8201: Art Therapy with Groups: This course explores the principles and practices of facilitating art therapy within group settings, teaching students therapeutic dynamics, group processes, and art-based interventions.
• ARTT 8202: Art Therapy Ethics: This course provides a comprehensive examination of the ethical principles and professional standards guiding art therapy, exploring fundamental ethical issues specific to art therapy.
• ARTT 8203: Relationships and Family Art Therapy: This course explores the application of art therapy principles and techniques within family systems, emphasizing understanding and addressing family dynamics through creative expression and therapeutic process.
• ARTT 8301: Cultural Responsiveness in Art Therapy: This course focuses on developing cultural competence and responsiveness in art therapy practice, exploring how cultural factors influence the therapeutic process.
• ARTT 8302: Community-Based Practices in Art Therapy: This course explores the transformative power of art in public practice, focusing on both studio art therapy and community-based art therapy.
• ARTT 8303: Professional Wellness Seminar: This seminar promotes and sustains professional wellness, emphasizing strategies for managing stress, achieving work-life balance, and fostering personal growth within a professional context.
• ARTT 9085: Internship I: This art therapy graduate-level course builds upon the skills acquired in previous courses, providing students with hands-on experience in art therapy settings and requiring the completion of a 300-hour internship.
• ARTT 9086: Internship II: This course continues the internship experience, deepening students' understanding of the complexities and nuances of art therapy practice.
• ARTT 9087: Practicum I: This foundational graduate art therapy course provides students with hands-on experience in art therapy settings, integrating theoretical knowledge with real-world practice under the guidance of credentialed art therapists.
• ARTT 9088: Practicum II: This advanced graduate art therapy course builds upon the foundational skills and experiences gained in Practicum I, focusing on advanced techniques, complex cases, and professional development.
• ARTT 9991: Directed Research: This course provides comprehensive support for students in the development, writing, and completion of their master's thesis.

Program Details

The Art Therapy program at Temple University is designed to provide students with a comprehensive education in the field of art therapy, preparing them for careers in this creative and rewarding field. The program includes a range of courses, from introductory classes to advanced practicum and internship experiences, all designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and ethical principles necessary to succeed as art therapists.