Expressive Arts Therapist in Kansas Career Overview

As an Expressive Arts Therapist, you engage clients through various creative modalities to address emotional, psychological, and social challenges. This unique therapeutic approach incorporates art, music, dance, drama, and writing as a means of communication and healing.

  • Job Role: Your primary responsibility is to create a safe and supportive environment where clients can freely express themselves. You facilitate sessions that encourage self-exploration and personal growth, employing artistic techniques tailored to individual needs.

  • Importance in the Industry: Expressive Arts Therapy plays a significant role in mental health treatment. By integrating creative elements into therapy, you transcend traditional verbal communication barriers. This approach is particularly beneficial for individuals who may struggle to articulate their feelings, such as children and those dealing with trauma.

  • Holistic Approach: Emphasizing a holistic view of well-being, you consider the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit. This enables you to address a range of issues, including anxiety, depression, and relationship problems, while promoting resilience and self-esteem among your clients.

  • Diverse Clientele: Your work spans various populations and settings, including schools, hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and private practice. This diversity allows you to adapt your methods and reach individuals from different backgrounds, enhancing your impact in the community.

In summary, your role as an Expressive Arts Therapist is essential in facilitating healing and personal growth through creative expression, making a meaningful difference in the lives of your clients.

Expressive Arts Therapist Salary in Kansas

Annual Median: $47,490
Hourly Median: $22.83

Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.

Required Education To Become an Expressive Arts Therapist in Kansas

To become an Expressive Arts Therapist in Kansas, you must complete specific educational qualifications and training in various related fields. Below are the essential degree programs that will prepare you for this career:

  • Master's Degree in Creative Writing
    This program typically includes coursework in narrative therapy, poetry therapy, and creative expression techniques. Completing this degree will help you understand how storytelling can facilitate emotional healing.

  • Master's Degree in Dance Therapy
    This program offers training in body movement, dance practices, and therapeutic principles. You will learn to use dance as a form of expression and to support clients in processing their emotions through movement.

  • Master's Degree in Drama Therapy
    In this program, you will study improvisation, role play, and other theatrical techniques used as therapeutic tools. Training will focus on using drama to enhance self-awareness and interpersonal relationships.

  • Master's Degree in Music Therapy
    This degree covers the use of music interventions in clinical settings. You will learn how to assess clients' needs and apply music techniques to promote healing, growth, and emotional well-being.

  • Master's Degree in Play Therapy
    This program emphasizes the therapeutic use of play, particularly with children. You will gain insights into child development, therapeutic play strategies, and how to engage children effectively in therapy.

In addition to completing one of these degree programs, you may also need to fulfill specific clinical training requirements and obtain certification or licensure relevant to your chosen field of expressive arts therapy.

Best Schools to become a Expressive Arts Therapist in Kansas 2024

#1Merrimack County

Southern New Hampshire University

Manchester, NH

In-State Tuition:$15,000
Out-of-State Tuition:$15,000
Admission Rate:96%
Graduation Rate:41%
Total Enrollment:164,091
#2Suffolk County

Emerson College

Boston, MA

In-State Tuition:$51,552
Out-of-State Tuition:$51,552
Admission Rate:43%
Graduation Rate:77%
Total Enrollment:5,891
#3New York County

Columbia University in the City of New York

New York, NY

In-State Tuition:$61,989
Out-of-State Tuition:$61,989
Admission Rate:4%
Graduation Rate:95%
Total Enrollment:34,782
#4Lynchburg City

Liberty University

Lynchburg, VA

In-State Tuition:$15,467
Out-of-State Tuition:$15,467
Admission Rate:99%
Graduation Rate:66%
Total Enrollment:96,709
#5Whatcom County

Western Washington University

Bellingham, WA

In-State Tuition:$7,760
Out-of-State Tuition:$25,666
Admission Rate:93%
Graduation Rate:65%
Total Enrollment:14,747
#6St. Charles County

Lindenwood University

Saint Charles, MO

In-State Tuition:$19,100
Out-of-State Tuition:$19,100
Admission Rate:74%
Graduation Rate:54%
Total Enrollment:7,000
Expressive Arts Therapist Job Description:
  • Plan or conduct art therapy sessions or programs to improve clients' physical, cognitive, or emotional well-being.

Expressive Arts Therapist Required Skills and Competencies in Kansas

  • Empathy: You must possess the ability to understand and share the feelings of your clients. This sensitivity helps create a safe and trusting therapeutic environment.

  • Active Listening: Strong listening skills are essential for you to effectively understand clients’ experiences and emotions. This allows you to respond appropriately to their needs and concerns.

  • Creativity: You need to think creatively and adapt various expressive arts modalities to support clients in exploring their emotions and experiences.

  • Interpersonal Skills: Building rapport with clients is vital. You should be approachable, warm, and able to relate to individuals from diverse backgrounds.

  • Cultural Competence: Being aware of and sensitive to the cultural diversity of your clients will enhance your ability to connect and address the unique challenges they face.

  • Flexibility: You should be open to adapting therapeutic approaches based on the specific needs and responses of your clients.

  • Therapeutic Techniques Knowledge: Familiarity with various modalities, such as art therapy, music therapy, drama therapy, and dance/movement therapy, is important to effectively guide clients in their expressive process.

  • Problem-Solving Skills: As a therapist, you will encounter various challenges. Being able to think critically and develop innovative solutions is essential.

  • Emotional Regulation: You need to manage your own emotional responses while providing support to clients; this helps maintain a professional therapeutic space.

  • Assessment Skills: You should be capable of identifying clients’ emotional and psychological needs through observation and evaluation, enabling you to tailor your therapeutic approach.

  • Communication Skills: Strong verbal and non-verbal communication skills are necessary for conveying information clearly and understanding clients effectively.

  • Ethical Judgment: You must adhere to ethical guidelines and standards of practice within the field, ensuring that client welfare is prioritized in all settings.

Job Duties for Expressive Arts Therapists

  • Conduct art therapy sessions, providing guided self-expression experiences to help clients recover from, or cope with, cognitive, emotional, or physical impairments.

  • Design art therapy sessions or programs to meet client's goals or objectives.

  • Observe and document client reactions, progress, or other outcomes related to art therapy.

Technologies and Skills Used by Expressive Arts Therapists

Graphics or photo imaging software

  • Adobe Illustrator
  • Adobe Photoshop

Presentation software

  • Microsoft PowerPoint

Spreadsheet software

  • Microsoft Excel

Basic Skills

  • Listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions
  • Talking to others

Problem Solving

  • Noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it

Social

  • Looking for ways to help people
  • Understanding people's reactions

Job Market and Opportunities for Expressive Arts Therapist in Kansas

The job market for Expressive Arts Therapists in Kansas is reflective of a growing recognition of the therapeutic benefits of creative modalities in mental health treatment. Here are key points to consider regarding demand, growth potential, and geographical hotspots for this career in the state:

  • Demand: There is an increasing demand for Expressive Arts Therapists as mental health awareness broadens across various demographics. With a focus on holistic treatment approaches, many health care institutions, community organizations, and educational settings are incorporating expressive arts into their mental health services.

  • Growth Potential: The field of expressive arts therapy is projected to experience growth as more people seek innovative methods for coping with mental health issues. Ongoing trends in wellness and self-care emphasize the importance of creative expression, likely leading to more job openings and roles in diverse settings such as schools, hospitals, private practices, and wellness centers.

  • Geographical Hotspots: While opportunities can be found throughout Kansas, certain areas show more concentration and availability for Expressive Arts Therapists:

    • Kansas City: The urban setting provides a diverse population and numerous health care facilities that are embracing holistic treatment options.
    • Wichita: This city is home to a growing number of mental health organizations, community centers, and educational institutions that are seeking qualified expressive arts professionals.
    • Lawrence: As an academic hub, Lawrence’s focus on mental health and wellness in educational contexts presents opportunities in both local schools and private practice.
    • Hutchinson and Topeka: These cities offer emerging opportunities in community health initiatives and partnerships with local organizations aimed at improving mental health services.

  • Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Expressive Arts Therapists often find collaborative roles within mental health teams, alongside psychologists, social workers, and other therapists. This collaborative approach is increasingly valued by employers, creating additional opportunities within the job market.

By situating yourself within these growing sectors, you can explore a range of career paths and make a significant impact as an Expressive Arts Therapist in Kansas.

Top Related Careers to Expressive Arts Therapist 2024

Creative Arts Psychotherapist
Clinical Art Therapist
Art Therapy Practitioner
Therapeutic Art Facilitator

Additional Resources To Help You Become an Expressive Arts Therapist in Kansas

  • American Art Therapy Association (AATA)
    This professional organization offers resources, training, and guidelines for art therapists in the U.S.
    Visit AATA

  • International Expressive Arts Therapy Association (IEATA)
    A global organization that supports expressive arts therapists through networking, training, and advocacy.
    Visit IEATA

  • National Institute for Trauma and Loss in Children (TLC)
    This institute provides training and resources on the use of expressive arts in trauma therapy for children.
    Visit TLC

  • California Institute of Integral Studies (CIIS)
    Offers master's and doctoral programs in expressive arts therapy and provides resources on various modalities.
    Visit CIIS

  • American Psychological Association (APA)
    The APA offers numerous resources on mental health and art therapy practices, including articles and research studies.
    Visit APA

  • Expressive Arts Therapy Programs
    You can find listings of different educational programs for expressive arts therapy in Kansas and across the U.S. on various educational databases and platforms.
    Program Finder

  • Kansas Counseling Association (KCA)
    This organization provides information on local licensing and offers resources for therapists practicing in Kansas.
    Visit KCA

  • Books on Expressive Arts Therapy

    • "The Art Therapy Sourcebook" by Cathy Malchiodi
    • "Expressive Arts Therapy: Creative Process in Art and Life" by Judy E. Rubin
      These books offer valuable insights and methodologies for practicing expressive arts therapy.

  • Webinars and Online Courses
    Check platforms like Coursera or Udemy for courses specifically relating to expressive arts therapies and techniques.

By exploring these resources, you can enhance your understanding of expressive arts therapy, stay informed on best practices, and connect with professional communities dedicated to this field.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Expressive Arts Therapist in Kansas

  • What is an Expressive Arts Therapist?
    An Expressive Arts Therapist utilizes creative processes, such as art, music, dance, and drama, to facilitate healing and personal growth. This profession integrates psychological theories with artistic techniques to support clients in expressing emotions and experiences.

  • What educational requirements are needed to become an Expressive Arts Therapist in Kansas?
    To work as an Expressive Arts Therapist, you typically need at least a master’s degree in art therapy, music therapy, or a related field. Additionally, becoming licensed as a professional counselor or therapist may require meeting specific state guidelines and obtaining a clinical license.

  • Is certification required to practice as an Expressive Arts Therapist?
    While certification is not always mandatory, obtaining credentials from a recognized board, such as the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) or the American Art Therapy Association (AATA), can enhance your credibility and job prospects. Check if your chosen specialty requires specific certifications.

  • What is the job outlook for Expressive Arts Therapists in Kansas?
    The job outlook for Expressive Arts Therapists is generally positive, reflecting the growing recognition of the therapeutic benefits of expressive arts in mental health. Opportunities are available across various settings, including schools, hospitals, community centers, and private practice.

  • What types of settings do Expressive Arts Therapists work in?
    You can find employment in diverse environments such as mental health clinics, rehabilitation centers, schools, private practices, hospitals, and wellness programs. Each setting may focus on different populations, including children, adolescents, and adults dealing with various issues.

  • What kinds of clients do Expressive Arts Therapists typically work with?
    Expressive Arts Therapists work with a wide range of clients, including those with mental health disorders, trauma histories, developmental challenges, and emotional difficulties. They often help individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, grief, and more.

  • What skills are important for an Expressive Arts Therapist?
    Key skills include strong communication and interpersonal skills, creativity, empathy, active listening, and an understanding of psychological principles. These skills enable you to connect with clients and facilitate their expressive processes effectively.

  • How do Expressive Arts Therapists measure progress in clients?
    Progress can be measured through various methods, including client self-reports, observational assessments, and therapeutic goals. You may also use art-based assessments to evaluate changes in emotional expression and coping strategies.

  • Can Expressive Arts Therapy be combined with other therapeutic approaches?
    Yes, Expressive Arts Therapy can be integrated with other therapeutic modalities, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or mindfulness practices. This holistic approach can enhance treatment outcomes by addressing clients’ diverse needs.

  • What is the earning potential for Expressive Arts Therapists in Kansas?
    Earnings can vary based on experience, educational background, location, and work setting. As of recent data, Expressive Arts Therapists in Kansas can expect average salaries ranging from $40,000 to $70,000 per year, with potential for higher earnings in private practice or specialized roles.