Program Overview

Introduction to the Master of Arts in Art Therapy Program

The Master of Arts in Art Therapy program at Herron School of Art and Design is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education programs. This two-year, full-time program provides a foundation in art therapy, integrating art and science into clinical practice. Located within the urban campus of IU Indianapolis, the program offers a unique opportunity for students to engage with a renowned art school and a premier research institution.

Program Overview

The program utilizes the theoretical and practical application of psychotherapeutic principles through a variety of interventions and in myriad settings, including mental health, medical, educational, and other facilities. Students are trained via didactic and experiential teaching methods and encouraged to use personal art making across the curriculum as a means of developing knowledge, skills, attitudes, and behaviors required for the competent and ethical practice of art therapy.

Curriculum

The curriculum exposes students to contemporary approaches in art therapy, evidence-based practices, and various research methodologies, including art-based inquiry. Students are required to engage in clinical training within medical and healthcare facilities in Indianapolis and surrounding communities as part of their coursework. They must also complete 1000 hours of supervised practicum and internship experience.

Course Structure

The suggested plan of study includes:

• Year 1 Fall Semester:
  • Lifespan Development
  • Psychopathology and Advanced Diagnosis Practicum and Group Supervision
  • History, Theory and Practice of Art therapy
  • Art Therapy Practicum
  • Counseling Theory and Practice for Art Therapists
• Year 1: Spring Semester:
  • Art Therapy with Families and Adults
  • Ethical and Legal Issues in Counseling and Art Therapy
  • Art Therapy with Children and Adolescents
  • Assessment and Evaluation in Art Therapy
  • Internship I
• Summer Semester I/II:
  • Career Counseling Theory and Practice
  • Strategies for Educational Inquiry
• Year 2: Fall Semester:
  • Group Counseling for Art Therapist
  • Cultural and Social Diversity in Counseling and Art Therapy
  • Internship II
  • Professional Issues Capstone I
• Year 2: Spring Semester:
  • Art Therapy and Counseling with Specialized Populations
  • Professional Issues Capstone II
  • Advanced Internship
  • Studio Art for Art Therapists

Admission Criteria

Applicants are evaluated based on:

• Academic history, including completion of required prerequisite courses
• 3 Letters of recommendation
• Personal statement and artistic portfolio
• Interview results Applicants must have obtained or be in the process of obtaining a baccalaureate degree from an accredited institution.

Career Outcomes

Students who successfully complete the Master of Arts in Art Therapy program will have met the requirements to apply for the Provisional Registration as an Art Therapist (ATR-P) through the Art Therapy Credentialing Board (ATCB) and Licensure as a Mental Health Counselor Associate (LMHCA) in the state of Indiana.