Why Earn Your Graduate Degree in Art Therapy/Counseling?

Considering earning a master’s degree in art therapy/counseling? Here are five reasons Springfield College is the right place to do so.

1. You can go on to become a mental health counselor who makes a difference.

Our art therapy/counseling program is the best of two worlds. You will learn how art and psychology are a vehicle for healing. Become a professional who can use creativity to make a difference in the lives of people experiencing psychological, emotional, and behavioral challenges or medical issues.

2. You can put your skills to use in a variety of settings.

Graduates from this program are master's-level clinicians who can jump right into the workforce, or pursue additional licensure opportunities, which could allow them to become registered art therapists, board certified art therapists, and licensed mental health counselors (LMHC) in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. With a master’s degree and license, you can work in settings such as mental health clinics, schools, residential treatment facilities, hospitals, geriatric facilities, and hospice care. So, regardless of your goals, you can feel confident knowing you’ll end up in the role that was meant for you.

3. Experienced faculty members are readily accessible to work with and help you.

Through the program, you’ll work closely with expert faculty members who can facilitate an appropriate internship match that aligns with your unique interests. These faculty members also provide one-on-one mentorship and guidance to assist you in reaching your goals.

4. Our program immerses you in both the art therapy and psychology worlds.

The graduate art therapy/counseling program blends theory, technique, and practice so that you will develop the skills to integrate art and psychology for the betterment of others. A practicum is required in your first year of study, which includes providing therapy to individuals of all ages experiencing a variety of issues. You’ll gain ample experience in all areas and be able to put your knowledge into practice. You will be seen as an artist and a therapist and have an opportunity to exhibit your art.

5. You’ll succeed.

In a recent survey of 2021-22 graduates, 80 percent of students in the art therapy/counseling program who responded reported being employed (with 20 percent continuing their education). A survey of our 2019-20 and 2020-2021 graduates showed a 100 percent employment rate from those who responded.