The studies focus on art therapy skills development, art therapy assessment and interventions, as well gain an in depth general knowledge of the field of art therapy.  The intensive residential components (three weeks and two weeks) presents direct experiential learning opportunities.

The program accommodates people who are working fulltime in their own community.  The first cohort enrolled in the summer of 2002.

By completion of the Advanced Diploma, students will have gained:

• through personal experience, an in depth understanding of art therapy
• an understanding how creativity and symbolic language can promote healing
• an in depth appreciation of the value of art in practice and treatment
• a knowledge of the unique contribution art therapy can offer to treatment
• experience and learning with a wide variety of client groups
• a broad knowledge of the field, both past and present
• an appreciation and integration of both theory and practice

The program focuses on training professionals through a practical approach. The emphasis is on promoting therapeutic relationships with clients using art therapy as a healing modality as well as making a contribution to multi-disciplinary team involvement.

Pre-requisites

• A Master’s degree in a Psychology, Counselling, Education, Social Work or a related field. (Applicants with a Master’s degree in a non-related field with applicable experience will be considered)
• Demonstration of work related experience.

Diploma: Art Therapist

On completion of the Advanced Diploma, students will have completed 30 credits of graduate level study.  This includes:

• 700 hours of practicum experience 
• 25 hours of individual supervision
• 20 hours of group supervision
• a final application project