CiiAT - Canadian International Institute of Art Therapy
Therapeutic Arts Practitioner Certification
CiiAT - Canadian International Institute of Art Therapy
Therapeutic Arts Practitioner Certification

Choose the path that best suits your needs:

  • 16-Week Program
  • 4-Day Intensive.

16-week Program Description

The Therapeutic Arts Practitioner Certification is a professional development program that consists of four courses designed to lead the participant through an experiential and exploratory process of self-discovery and personal growth while building confidence and skills to safely facilitate therapeutic arts sessions with individuals and groups.

Throughout this program, participants will learn the importance of scope of practice, confidentiality, and creating a safe therapeutic space – virtually or in person. Additionally, participants will learn about the legal and ethical considerations for working in the therapeutic arts space.

Each module develops skills in therapeutic questioning, applying the appropriate use of media and creative interventions, and considerations for working with individuals and groups, in open or closed formats.

4-Day Intensive Program Description

Unlock the power of creativity in therapeutic practice with CiiAT’s 4-Day Intensive Therapeutic Arts Practitioner Certificate (TAPC). This immersive program offers the same comprehensive training as our 16-week course, expertly condensed into an impactful week of learning. In just four days, you’ll gain the full suite of skills, insights, and foundational knowledge to effectively incorporate therapeutic arts into your personal and professional life—earning the same CiiAT certification that our longer program provides.

Who Should Enroll?

Ideal for counselors, educators, healthcare providers, social workers, and community leaders, the TAPC is crafted for those who want to enrich their skills with therapeutic arts knowledge. No prior experience in art or therapy is necessary.

Flexible Format – Virtual and Inclusive

Delivered fully online, the TAPC Intensive welcomes students from around the world, allowing you to participate from the comfort of your home while connecting with a global cohort of like-minded individuals.

  • Title: Therapeutic Arts Practitioner
  • Credential: Certificate
  • Tuition: $2,780 (4 payments of $695)
  • Delivery: Live Online (on-camera)
  • Instructional Hours: 48 hours (32 Instructor-led and 16 self-directed)
  • lHomework: 8-10 hours
  • Time Commitment: 56-58 hours
  • Intensive: 4 consecutive 8h days, and 24h self-directed

Learning Outcomes

  • Become familiar with the ethical use of therapeutic arts
  • Demonstrate an understanding of when the client should be referred to an art psychotherapist
  • Differentiate regulations and requirements between the art therapy practice and the therapeutic arts practice
  • Apply and practice basic techniques and therapeutic arts interventions across a variety of client populations within the outlined scope of practice
  • Learn the art of deep listening and therapeutic questioning
  • Deepen awareness of media, creative expression, and play
  • Understand the benefits and limitations of therapeutic arts as a modality for mental wellbeing
  • Learn strategies for building a healthy therapeutic relationship
  • Comprehend the importance of process over product
  • Practice working with symbolism and metaphors through art
  • Gain an appreciation for the use of traditional and non-traditional forms of media

Admission Requirements

Participants must meet a minimum age requirement of 19 years and have a minimum of two years of experience in education completed in English.

Completion Requirements

Participants must achieve a minimum grade of 70% and an overall attendance rate of 90%, and all assignments must be completed in order to complete the course.

Method of Evaluation

Assigned readings, followed by learner participation in the form of synchronous and asynchronous discussion, response to each other’s questions and comments, response to the instructor's questions and comments, analyzing and giving feedback.

  • Arts-based projects which explore various media
  • Reflective and qualitative personal learning reports
  • Successful completion of evaluation activities and methods, including but not limited to quizzes, assignments, projects, role-plays, demonstrations, and participation

 

This program does not require approval by the Private Training Institutions Branch (PTIB) of the Ministry of Advanced Education and Skills Training.

When Does it Run?

We offer the Therapeutic Arts Practitioner Certification a few times throughout the year.  However, we accept requests for private groups at any time.

PRIVATE GROUPS

Do you have 6 or more staff all needing this training? We deliver the curriculum tailored to your needs. Contact us to discuss options [email protected].

Paying all at once

Is your tuition being paid by your company or organization? Do you need to pay the full tuition in advance?

We can help you, please email [email protected]  to enroll and pay.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the tuition cost for the programs, and are payment plans available?

The tuition cost for the programs varies depending on the specific program chosen. Payment plans are offered with options for multiple installments, making it easier for participants to manage their financial commitments. Detailed information about tuition fees and payment plans can be found in the program-specific documentation.

Are the courses available through virtual or distance education?

Yes, the courses within the Therapeutic Arts series offer various instructional formats, including virtual or distance education. Participants can engage in the programs through online platforms, teleconferencing, and the use of online learning platforms, allowing for flexibility and accessibility in their studies.

How can I enroll in these programs, and when are they available?

The Therapeutic Arts Series has several enrollment times a year, please check the shop for current availability. The Therapeutic Arts Practitioner Certification has public enrollment in January, May and September. Private group enrollment is available throughout the year, upon request.

Are there any prerequisites for enrolling in these programs?

No, there are no specific prerequisites for enrolling in these programs. They are open to individuals interested in personal and professional development in the field of therapeutic arts.

Are there other programs available besides the Therapeutic Arts Practitioner Certification?

Yes, there are other programs available, including “The Art of Psychology,” “Rethinking Relationships,” “Navigating Neurodiversity,” “Trauma-Informed Practices,” “Attached for Life,” “Creating with Nature,” and “Passion, Purpose, Profit.” These programs cover various aspects of therapeutic arts and personal development.

How are the courses structured, and what is the instructional format?

Each course within the TAPC program is held once a week for 16 weeks of instruction (including both synchronous and asynchronous components) with 48 instructional hours. Over the course, there are also 8-10 hours of homework. The courses are available through distance education and are delivered live online.

What are the general learning outcomes for the Therapeutic Arts Practitioner Certification program?

Participants in the TAPC program will learn about the ethical use of therapeutic arts, when to refer clients to an art psychotherapist, how to differentiate between art therapy and therapeutic arts, and various therapeutic techniques and interventions within the scope of practice.

Can you provide more information about the Therapeutic Arts Practitioner Certification (TAPC) program?

The TAPC program is a professional development program consisting of four courses that guide participants through self-discovery and personal growth while building the skills needed to facilitate therapeutic arts sessions. It covers topics like ethics, media use, group dynamics, and more.

When can I enroll in the courses?

Enrollment for the courses is available in January, May, and September. Additionally, a summer intensive option is available upon request. Team training can be scheduled throughout the calendar year.

What are the entry and completion requirements for the courses?

Participants must meet a minimum age requirement of 19 years to enroll in these courses. To successfully complete the course, students must achieve a minimum grade of 70%, maintain an overall attendance rate of 90%, and complete all assignments.

Is the Therapeutic Arts series suitable for those looking to become Art Therapists or Art Psychotherapists?

No, the Therapeutic Arts series is unsuitable for individuals seeking the professional designation of Art Therapist or Art Psychotherapist. It is designed for personal and professional development and does not lead to a professional designation.

Can teams enroll in the Therapeutic Arts series?

Yes, teams of six or more can enroll in the Therapeutic Arts series. Tailored materials will be provided to better suit the unique needs of the team’s clients and targeted learning outcomes.

Are there any academic prerequisites for these courses?

No, there are no academic prerequisites for the Therapeutic Arts series courses.

What is the difference between art therapy and therapeutic arts?

Both art therapy and the therapeutic arts have numerous benefits relating to well-being, mental health, stress reduction, self-expression, and more. The main difference between the two is: that anyone can learn and use therapeutic arts in their personal and professional lives, whereas art therapy can only be ethically practiced in Canada by a professional or registered art therapist. Art therapists use therapeutic art and art therapy techniques, interventions, and clinical approaches to help clients work toward their goals and overcome obstacles, issues, and trauma.

Therapeutic arts often rely on the artistic process and create a safe space for self-reflection. The defining characteristic of therapeutic art vs. art therapy is the scope of practice. Art therapists undergo over two years of training, including a practicum component, increasing their competence and scope of practice when working with clients with specific mental health goals.

On the other hand, businesses may integrate therapeutic arts to help relieve employee stress through calming art activities, or build team engagement. However, they can not use these activities to engage with clients or create treatment plans. If someone is struggling with their mental health or seeking therapy options, they should connect with a healthcare professional, like a registered art therapist. With all this said, therapeutic arts are invaluable and act as a resource for individuals to engage with creative processes in a restorative and therapeutic manner.

What is the difference between an art therapist and a therapeutic arts practitioner?

The main differences between an art therapist and a therapeutic arts practitioner is the level of qualifications, professional status and scope of practice.

  • Currently, in Canada, Therapeutic Arts is unregulated. While Art Therapy and Art Psychotherapy are protected titles and designations requiring membership in good standing at the Canadian Art Therapy Association (or provincial equivalent) and, where applicable, registration with a college, such as CRPO.
  • A Therapuiseries is unsuitable for individuals seeking the professional designation of Art Therapist or Art Psychotherapist. It is designed for personal and professional development and does not lead to a professional designation.
What is the Therapeutic Arts series?

The Therapeutic Arts series is a collection of courses and a certification program designed for personal and professional development. It is suitable for individuals and teams seeking continuing education in the fields of mental health as this series focuses on mental health, emotional wellness, and creativity, providing participants with the skills and knowledge needed to facilitate therapeutic arts sessions with individuals and groups safely. It is open to anyone interested in these areas, and there are no academic prerequisites. However, it is recommended as a foundation for those new to the field.

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.

I loved the TAPPs program

I loved the TAPPs program, with Drawn by Experience and Mandalas as Clinical Intervention with a variety of skilled and talented instructors.

M Desjardins
Graduated Student

Had a huge impact

Each of the modules had a huge impact on both my personal artistic/therapeutic practice and deciding what I wanted to do with my career.

Rachel Robbins
Graduated Art Psychotherapy Diploma Student

Strong foundation in therapeutic arts

TAPPs gave me a strong foundation in therapeutic arts and solidified my decision to apply to their Art Psychotherapy Diploma (APD).

Rachel Robbins
Graduated Art Psychotherapy Diploma Student

I love the live online format

I love the live online format of these classes and being able to connect with other students from anywhere in the world.

Rebecca Adelman
Graduated Student

The perfect place to explore

If you have a passion for the arts, helping others, and furthering your education, CiiAT is the perfect place to explore all of the above, regardless of where you are in the world.

Graduate 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

Do it!

If you are thinking about enrolling with CiiAT, do it!

M Desjardins
Graduated Student

Passionate and Engaging

My experience so far has been very positive! The teachers and staff are passionate and engaging.

Rebecca Adelman
Graduated Student