ATR-BC.
What’s that?
ATR-BC stands for Board Certified Art Therapist. It is the highest-level art therapy credential. According to the Art Therapy Credentials Board (ATCB), “ATR-BCs pass a national examination, demonstrating comprehensive knowledge of the theories and clinical skills used in art therapy. All board-certified art therapists (ATR-BC) are required to recertify their board certification every five years through the completion of 100 continuing education credits or successful passage of the ATCBE national examination.”
Why become an ATR-BC?
Board certification provides:
The highest distinction you can earn as an art therapist.
Assurance to employers, clients, and the public that you have met rigorous standards.
A certification that is portable from state to state and is accredited by the National Commission on Certifying Agencies (NCCA).
In addition, Board Certification is a widely recognized professional designation of the major health and educational professions in the United States. The Art Therapy Credentials Board Examination (ATCBE) is a reliable and valid tool used by the licensing boards of several states.
Why am I pursuing Board Certification?
In being totally transparent, one of the biggest reasons comes from being able to supervise future Registered Art Therapists (ATRs) as they work towards gaining their clinical and supervision hours. In order to become an ATR, graduates of AATA-Approved or CAAHEP-accredited programs are required to fulfill a minimum of 1,000 post-education, direct client contact hours using art therapy and receive a minimum of 100 hours of supervision, at least 50 hours being provided by a current ATR-BC or Art Therapy Credentialed Supervisor (ATCS). Whereas, individuals with post-master’s or post-doctoral coursework in art therapy are required to fulfill a minimum of 2,000 hours of direct client contact using art therapy and a minimum of 200 hours of supervision, at least 100 hours being provided by a current ATR-BC or ATCS.
I love the idea of being able to help new and upcoming art therapists to traverse their path towards becoming an ATR. I have always found myself to be something of a teacher and supporting these future ATRs is another way that I can continue to be true to myself. I also love the process of studying and learning, so hopefully I can create a study guide to help future ATRs as they work towards becoming board certified. *fingers crossed*
The field of art therapy is still young and has plenty to offer to future generations. But in order for the field to be beneficial to future generations, we need art therapists - registered and board certified!
Stay tuned for more updates on my journey.
