JOB DESCRIPTION
Art therapists work with a client or a group of clients to help them address emotional and psychological issues through creative activities such as drawing, painting, sculpting and collage. Art therapists work in any area where people require assistance with achieving a better quality of mental health. This includes psychiatric wards, prisons, rehabilitation centres, and drug and alcohol units.
DUTIES AND TASKS
Art therapists may perform the following tasks:
- conduct therapeutic interviews and provide psychotherapy and counselling
- provide assessments to identify the source of problems and determine appropriate treatment
- provide follow-up services to groups and individuals for support and evaluation purposes
- build relationships with clients to support them in understanding their emotions and behaviours
- assess individuals and groups in order to identify their abilities and needs
- develop activities that may use painting, sculpting, printing and/or drawing to address a patient's needs and concerns in a safe, nurturing environment
- maintain appropriate records of patient progress
- provide consultation and information about patient progress
- assess, monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of artistic and therapeutic interactions.
PERSONAL REQUIREMENTS
- interested in people and human behaviour
- able to solve problems
- an inquisitive mind
- able to maintain confidentiality
- patient and perceptive
- good oral and written communication skills