CiiAT - Canadian International Institute of Art Therapy
Art Psychotherapy Diploma
CiiAT - Canadian International Institute of Art Therapy
Art Psychotherapy Diploma

Program Description

The Art Psychotherapy Diploma (APD) program is a dynamic, comprehensive, and academically rigorous program that nourishes creativity, encourages critical thinking, and welcomes unique perspectives. Experiential and theoretical learning experiences foster student competence, flexibility, and professional skill development that enables them to meet the complex demands of today’s clinical workplaces and diverse client needs. CiiAT ensures that students are actively involved in shaping their learning environment while implementing new research and ideas in practice. Graduates of the program become leaders in the field in the areas of professional practice, research, and theoretical implementation.

This diploma program prepares students for a career as a Professional Art Therapist and is recognized by:

This program has been approved by the BC Ministry of Advanced Education and Skills Training:

  • Title: Art Psychotherapist
  • Credential: Diploma (recognized by CRPO and CATA)
  • Tuition: $26,460 – $29,400
  • Delivery: Live Online (on-camera), some self-directed, and clinical placement (virtual or in-person)
  • Instructional Hours: 1200 hours
  • lHomework: varies week to week
  • Time Commitment:
  • Part time: 20h/week over 24 months
  • Full time: 30h/week over 18 months
CiiAT strives to be a community of equity and inclusion by welcoming students from many backgrounds and diverse cultures, creating space for all voices to be heard. The APD program helps students navigate political and cultural challenges by integrating traditional psychodynamic theories with contemporary theories in art therapy. Students are encouraged to explore the uses and potentials of different theories when dealing with various client populations, treatment goals, and the student’s own preferred therapeutic style of practice.

The APD program offers students innovative training while meeting the educational standards of the Canadian Art Therapy Association (CATA). Students who require Professional Membership with CATA must complete 350 hours of direct client clinical placement hours and 350 other non-direct clinical placement hours, otherwise known as clinical-related instructional hours.

Courses are taught online in real time and are heavily interactive. Coursework is delivered through Moodle, our comprehensive learning management system.

Graduates of the program become leaders in the field in the areas of professional practice, research, and theoretical development. In order to address the rising need for telehealth practices, post-APD graduates are also familiar with art therapy practices in a variety of environments both physical and virtual.

You can apply here, along with paying the application fee.

When Does it Run?

Diploma classes start at three different times throughout the year:

  • January
  • May
  • September.

We consider APD applications year-round. You can indicate which month you would like to begin classes when applying.

There are regional requirement differences for becoming a registered art therapist. It is the individual’s responsibility to ensure that they meet the requirements of any regulatory bodies in their area of practice.

By applying to the program, you confirm that you understand it is your own responsibility to check with your provincial/state/country regulatory bodies for any additional requirements you may have in order to become an art therapist, and not that of CiiAT.

Successful candidates will submit their application package at least 3 months prior to the desired starting date.

Learning Outcomes

  • Identify major relevant art therapy theories
  • Follow and implement the Canadian Art Therapy Association’s Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice
  • Develop a thorough understanding of art media and its use in clinical art therapy
  • Recognize and summarize the symptoms experienced by people who have been diagnosed with a psychological disorder as defined in the current DSM with appropriate art therapy interventions

Tuition Fees

Post-BA $29,400 over a monthly payment period of 20 months ($1470 per month)

* Post-MA $26,460 over a monthly payment period of 18 months ($1470 per month)

* Pending transcript review

Admission Requirements

  • Undergraduate degree in Social Sciences, the Arts or a related field (the undergraduate degree requirement may be met through a documented Equivalency Assessment)
  • 3 psychology courses, such as, Introduction to Psychology, Child and Adolescent Development, Human Development, Abnormal Psychology, Theories of Personality, Developmental Psychology, History of Psychology, and Counseling Skills.

NOTE: If students do not have their psychology prerequisites, they are able to enroll in the psychology course facilitated by CiiAT: Art of Psychology

 

  • A minimum of two years of experience in education completed in English
  • Current resume and/or transcripts and/or certificates
  • Portfolio of 10 pieces of artwork
  • Successful completion of an oral intake interview

Art Psychotherapy Diploma Part Time or Full Time Plans

101 History, Theories, and Approaches

In this course, students will explore the history and theory of Art Therapy, applying traditional psychotherapy theories—such as psychoanalytic, object-relations, humanistic, developmental, cognitive-behavioral, gestalt, and phenomenological—to client-inspired artworks. Through readings, lectures, art-making, and discussions, they will gain a working knowledge of the similarities and differences between these approaches and learn how to effectively apply them to better serve clients.

114 Clinical Interventions

In this self-directed course, students will practice and implement age-appropriate interventions for virtual and in-person clinical settings, both individually and in groups. Through mock sessions and observation, they will learn to use various materials and understand their symbolism, meaning, metaphor, and sensory qualities.

102 Ethical, Legal, and Cultural Considerations

This course covers ethical considerations in art therapy, including the values and beliefs of practicing therapists. Students will learn the Canadian Art Therapy Association (CATA) Code of Ethics and evaluate ethical dilemmas to make informed clinical decisions.

116 The Reality of Virtual Art Therapy

In this course, students will explore the impact of technology on art therapy, including telehealth platforms, managing virtual practices, safety protocols, and regional compliance. They will also learn how to handle and store clinical files, such as charts, intakes, reviews, and closure forms.

117 Mind, Body, and Media

In this course, students will explore how media helps clients express emotions beyond words, focusing on somatic experiencing and the mind-body connection in art therapy. They will examine causes and treatment approaches for somatic disconnection.

112 Individual and Group Supervision

This course focuses on building students’ confidence and competence in therapeutic relationships. Emphasis is placed on confidentiality, client session discussions, file handling, personal observations, assessments, and recognizing client growth. Students will explore nonverbal cues, transference, and countertransference, while supervisors assess their clinical abilities.

111 Case Studies in Art Therapy

This course introduces students to writing and presenting case studies to demonstrate client progress within a clinical team. Students learn the value of case studies, focusing on observing and clearly presenting a client’s therapeutic journey—including intake, assessment, presenting issues, treatment goals, progress documentation, and summary.

118 Clinical Placement

Clinical Placement is a key component of the Art Psychotherapy Diploma Program, preparing students for professional practice as mental health professionals. Through observation, practice, and review, students gain skills and knowledge aligned with Canadian Art Therapy Association (CATA) requirements. Placements match students’ career goals and include facilities like mental health centers, hospitals, schools, and virtual clinics. Students apply theoretical and clinical coursework to diverse client populations under supervision from site and Registered Art Therapist supervisors.

103 Disorders, Diagnoses, and Assessments

This course examines the relationship between art, psychopathology, creativity, and healing through readings, videos, case studies, discussions, and assignments. Students will explore the development and application of art therapy for various client populations, focusing on using art therapy with clients experiencing DSM-5 symptoms and identifying effective therapeutic goals and interventions.

115 Through the Lens: Authentic Art Therapy Sessions

This course enhances students’ observational skills in a clinical setting through an unscripted video series of real art therapy sessions led by an experienced therapist. Students will analyze the therapeutic process, interventions, client behavior, therapist responses, and explore adaptations for various populations and symptoms.

106 Studio Art Psychotherapy with Individuals

This studio-based course focuses on individual art therapy, covering intake, assessment, treatment planning, intervention, and closure. Students will apply theory, techniques, and clinical practices, while practicing the role of art therapist with peers. The course also explores creativity, the expressive therapies continuum, and the importance of the therapeutic relationship and person-centered approach in healing.

108 Studio Art Psychotherapy with Groups

This studio-based course focuses on group art therapy. Students will learn group dynamics, facilitation techniques for closed and open-ended groups, and explore mandated groups, volunteer groups, and art hives. They will experiment with various art-making processes and materials, discussing their benefits for clinical issues like depression, anxiety, eating disorders, trauma, and stress.

104 Attachment Informed Psychotherapy

This course provides an overview of an attachment-informed art therapy model focused on dyadic work with children, caregivers, adolescents, and adults. Students will learn to use art therapy to change internal working models, build a secure therapeutic base, process relationship experiences, and work with various attachment styles, including insecure and conflicted.

113 Professional and Clinical Practices

In this course, students will explore how to shape their professional practice based on career preferences, regional factors, and governing bodies. They will learn about setting up security protocols, job application processes, and marketing skills for future clinical work.

107 Studio Art Psychotherapy with Dyads

This studio-based course focuses on art therapy with adult dyads/couples, enhancing communication and intimacy. Students will engage in self-reflective processes and integrate these experiences into clinical frameworks. The course explores using art therapy techniques to support attachment theory in emotionally-focused couples therapy, blending art-making with group discussions on theory, technique, and practice.

105 Art Therapy with Families

This course introduces art therapy with families, covering family therapy philosophy, systemic thinking, and attachment theory. Students will explore applications, assessment techniques, family roles, hierarchies, strategic theory, re-framing, role-playing, and the impact of culture on the therapeutic relationship.

109 Research & Arts-Based Methodologies

This course deepens students’ understanding of planning and completing an arts-based thesis, covering topic selection, research questions, literature reviews, methodologies, dissemination, and ethical considerations. Emphasis is placed on critical thinking, analyzing art therapy research, and advancing knowledge, efficacy, and recognition of art therapy.

110 Thesis or Arts-Based Project

This course provides a framework for integrating research skills into art therapy practice, emphasizing ethical considerations. Students will gather data, analyze findings, and synthesize results for their final presentation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Art Psychotherapy Diploma (APD) at CiiAT?

The APD is a comprehensive, academically rigorous program designed to develop professional skills for careers in art therapy. It integrates experiential and theoretical learning, fostering competence and flexibility to meet diverse clinical needs.

What are the career prospects for graduates of the APD program?

Graduates can pursue careers as Art Therapists/psychotherapists, with the program aligning with NOC code 3144 for this occupation.

What is the accreditation status of the APD program?

The APD Diploma program is approved by the PTIB of the Ministry of Advanced Education and recognized by both the Canadian Art Therapy Association (CATA) and the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO).

How is the APD program delivered?

The program is delivered through a mix of synchronous and asynchronous distance education methods, including live online interactions, streaming video platforms, and various online tools and platforms.

What are the admission requirements for the APD program?

Applicants should have an undergraduate degree in Social Sciences, the Arts, or a related field, have completed three psychology courses, possess a minimum of two years of education in English, and fulfill other requirements such as a portfolio and an intake interview.

CiiAT’s Art of Psychology program is an ideal pre-requisite for the Art Psychotherapy Diploma Program as it offers a foundation in psychology through a therapeutic arts lens.

What are the requirements for CATA Professional Membership for APD students?

To qualify for CATA professional membership, students must complete a minimum of 500 academic hours and 700 hours of clinical hours.

What is the program duration and structure of the APD program?

The program spans 104 weeks, covering 1,200 instructional hours, including academic, clinical courses, and a clinical placement segment.

Students will be dedicating 15-20 hours a week to meet the Diploma requirements.

What equipment and materials are required for the APD program?

Students need art supplies, computer equipment, access to a web camera, microphone, and Wi-Fi. Course guides and textbooks are also required, with details provided course-wise.

How is student progress assessed in the APD program?

Assessment methods include demonstrations, participation in discussions, case study reports, presentations, quizzes, written assignments, art-making, and arts-based projects, among others.

What are the graduation requirements for the APD program?
  • Students must demonstrate competency in the program’s academic and clinical components.
  • Maintain a minimum attendance of 90%.
  • Complete all academic requirements to a minimum 70% (B-) grade.
  • Complete all clinical placement requirements in the time allocated and pass all clinical competencies.
What are the specific learning objectives and outcomes of the APD program?

Students will learn significant art therapy theories, adhere to the Canadian Art Therapy Association’s ethics, understand art media in clinical art therapy, and develop skills for treating psychological disorders, among other competencies.

What is the maximum number of students per cohort in the APD program?

The program admits 10-20 students per cohort, ensuring a more personalized and engaging learning experience.

What are the prerequisites for psychology courses within the APD program?

Applicants are required to have completed at least three psychology courses, ideal topics include – Introduction to Psychology, Abnormal Psychology, and Developmental Psychology. However, if students haven’t completed the necessary psychology prerequisites, they can enroll in CiiAT’s intensive course, “The Art of Psychology,” to fulfill this requirement.

What does the program’s online/virtual learning entail?

The program’s online learning includes a blend of live virtual classrooms, pre-recorded lectures, forums, email communication, and the use of a Learning Management System for continuous engagement and resource sharing.

What does the clinical placement component of the program involve?

The requirement for graduation at CiiAT includes 700 clinical hours. 300-350 hours will be completed in Clinical placement working directly with clients. Clinical Placement can take place in the student’s own community or via CiiAT’s Virtual Art Therapy Clinic.

What are the guidelines for success in the APD program?

Success in the program is tied to mandatory attendance in on-camera classes, active participation, systematic engagement with course content, regular self-reflection, and office hours facilitated by instructors.

The Academic and Clinical Faulty as well as an Academic Advisor, are available to guide and support each student.

How is the Equivalency Assessment (EA) utilized in admissions?

The EA assesses applicants without a bachelor’s degree for equivalent knowledge and skills, determining their suitability for the program. The application for an EA costs $200.

How much time commitment is required for the program?

You should expect to dedicate approximately 15-20 hours per week to complete all aspects of classes, meetings, placement hours and homework.

What is the passing grade for the program?

You need to achieve a minimum grade of 70% in the assessment methods to pass the program in every course. This standard ensures a competent understanding and application of the course materials.

What are the attendance expectations for the program?

Students are expected to maintain a 90% attendance rate, tracked through the learning management system based on participation, submission of work, and engagement with course materials.

What support is provided for students in navigating academic and clinical challenges?

The Academic and Clinical Faulty support our students throughout their journey, and students have access to an Academic Advisor who is available to guide and support students individually.

Can I work during my program?

The APD Program is a rigorous part-time program, and students should expect to dedicate at least 15-20 hours per week to their studies. Many of our students work during their studies, arranging their work schedule with their employers accordingly. Note that work hours must accommodate on-camera class times and client appointments.

What is the difference between Post-BA and Post-MA in the Art Psychotherapy Diploma Program?

The only difference between the Post-BA and Post-MA streams is that Post-MA students are not required to write a thesis or complete the Research & Arts-Based Methodologies course, so long as a thesis was completed in their previous graduate studies.

How does your class schedule work? When does the school year start?

While we accept applications year-round, we offer three student intakes throughout the year: January, May, and September.

If you are applying to our program, please indicate which month you would like to begin classes. Please note that the admission process takes about 10-12 weeks from application to your first class. The deadline for each intake is usually 10 weeks before the start of classes. We encourage prospective students to submit their applications in advance when possible.

Students will attend one to two scheduled instructor-led online classes per week and will be expected to attend several other commitments, such as study labs, self-directed courses, clinical placement, and supervision throughout their schedule.

How long will it take me to complete my clinical placement?

You must complete 300-350 direct client contact hours as part of your clinical placement. Your clinical placements must be completed within 18 months.

Do you offer any online clinical placement opportunities?

Students may be eligible to complete some or all of their clinical placement hours in our Virtual Art Therapy Clinic (vatc.ca).

Can I accept paid positions for my clinical placement?

Yes, payment for clinical placement hours is possible. However, it is only possible when the student is already employed at a location that can accommodate art therapy as part of their current position.

I haven’t taken any psychology courses. Can I still apply for the APD program?

The psychology requirements must be completed before starting the program, but you are welcome to apply for the program before fulfilling this requirement, and your requirements will be discussed during the interview process for the APD program.

CiiAT’s Art of Psychology course is an intensive course that fulfills all three psychology requirements and can be completed within eight weeks. For more information, see Art of Psychology. https://ciiat.org/art-of-psychology/

Do you offer student loans?

Unfortunately, our programs do not currently qualify for student loans. We hope to be eligible for student loans in the future.

For the APD Program, we offer convenient payment plans. Students approved for the Post-MA track are exempt from the research and thesis classes. As such, tuition for Post-MA students is $26,460, while Post-BA students pay $29,400. The tuition is divided over 18 months for Post-MA students and 20 months for Post-BA students, with monthly, bi-monthly, and quarterly payment plans available upon request. Your payments could be as low as $1,470.00/month if approved.

Furthermore, we offer a BIPOC scholarship that you are welcome to apply for if you qualify, and many of our students have found success receiving loans through their financial institutions. For more scholarships, please see the Canadian Art Therapy Association (CATA) website for their offerings.

Is the APD program completely virtual?

We are a virtual school with students from all around the world studying with us. All that is required to study with us is a stable internet connection. International students must check with their country’s governing bodies and art therapy associations if they accept the CATA membership to practice art therapy in their home country. Another thing for international students to consider is the time difference. APD courses are delivered live online on Vancouver timings (PST).

Our Art Psychotherapy Diploma (APD) Program has a clinical practicum placement component that can be completed in person in a student’s community, or students may be eligible to complete their practicum online in our Virtual Art Therapy Clinic.

Is there a scholarship available?

The Canadian International Institute of Art Therapy offers a scholarship to BIPOC (Black, Indigenous and People of Colour) students in an effort to provide greater accessibility to our programs. We want to recognize the marginalization that these communities face when entering the professional and academic sectors and to support bringing more BIPOC voices into the field of art therapy.

  • The scholarship is only honoured if you complete the APD program
  • The scholarship is in the form of a credit which is applied to your last tuition payments
  • Because there are limited scholarships, the amount of credit is variable, but can be up to $5000

Scholarship Application Requirements

  • A successful APD application which includes a note of intention to apply for this scholarship
  • A 2500-word essay written in APA format discussing how art-making provides a connection to culture.

Scholarship essays must be sent by email to [email protected]. All applications for the scholarship will be reviewed, and in circumstances where more than one applicant has shown potential, CiiAT may decide to split the scholarship accordingly.

Studying with CiiAT is more than just an education,

it’s a personal journey within a supportive community.

Whether it’s through our small, intimate classes, or through our friendly administrative and technical support team, we strive to provide personalized help and attention.

Moodle

Moodle

All of our programs have been designed with an optimal online learning experience in mind. Part of our highly interactive classes involves Moodle, an intuitive learning support software that provides a base for communication, assignments, feedback, and class resources. Never used Moodle before? Think of it as your very own virtual classroom space!

Virtual Art Therapy Clinic

Clinical Placement

As a school that is recognized by the Canadian Art Therapy Association, we match our Art Psychotherapy Diploma Program students with appropriate clinical placements in order to gain practical, real-life experience. In addition to clinical placements in a student’s local community, we also offer an online clinical placement option through our Virtual Art Therapy Clinic.

Graduation

Post-Grad

Graduates from our diploma programs go on to work as Professional Art Therapists in various settings. We offer various professional support and resources for finding work post-graduation.

Flexibility

I enjoyed interacting with the other students and teachers online while having the flexibility to do the courses from home.

Nathalie Paradis
Graduated Art Psychotherapy Diploma Student

Start this journey sooner

I have felt so supported in my educational learning and personal growth at CiiAT. I’ve made meaningful connections with teachers and fellow students and feel confident about my future in art therapy. I only wonder why I didn’t start this journey sooner

Tehani Burnett
Graduated Art Psychotherapy Diploma Student

CiiAT gave me lots of opportunities

CiiAT gave lots of opportunities to me. It opened up a new and exciting world of art therapy and welcomed me to the community of specialists.

Yara
Graduated Art Psychotherapy Diploma Student

It was such a positive experience

If you’re considering this field, I highly recommend taking CiiAT’s TAPPs program to start, it was such a positive experience and would be useful for anyone, even if you’re not looking to do the APD.

Rachel Robbins
Graduated Art Psychotherapy Diploma Student

all interesting

It offers a variety of programs – all interesting! – and provides great support for their students.

Nathalie Paradis
Graduated Art Psychotherapy Diploma Student

Collaborations with the amazing people

I am looking forward to many collaborations with the amazing people I met at CiiAT.

Ulyana Omelchenko
Graduated Art Psychotherapy Diploma Student

I felt at home

When I registered and started my courses with CIIAT, I felt at home and comfortable with the way they delivered the courses.

Nathalie Paradis
Graduated Art Psychotherapy Diploma Student

Bringing art therapy to more people

I hope to bring the delight and healing I have experienced in learning art therapy and the artistic process at CiiAT to more people.

Ju-Yi Chia
Graduated Art Psychotherapy Diploma Student