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Arts Therapist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Creative Arts Therapist (Art) The Creative Arts Therapist (Art) at the VA San Diego Health Care System (VASDHCS) is aligned under Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Service providing rehabilitation ...

Creative Arts Therapist

Elizabeth, NJ · On-site

$30.54 - $37.24/hr

Creative Arts Therapist Req #: 0000253719 Category: Behavioral and Mental Health Status: Full-Time Shift: Day Facility: Trinitas Regional Medical Center Department: Adult Psych (AP) Pay Range: $30.54 ...

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Arts Therapist information

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$28.5K

$66.3K

$101K

How much do arts therapist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for arts therapist in the United States is $66,321.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,500.00 and $74,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an arts therapist?

Arts Therapists are healthcare professionals who use creative arts—such as music, drama, visual arts, or dance—as therapeutic tools to help individuals improve their mental, emotional, and physical well-being. They work with people of all ages and backgrounds, including those facing mental health challenges, disabilities, or trauma. Arts Therapists tailor their approaches to each client's needs, fostering self-expression and personal growth through artistic activities. They often work in hospitals, schools, community centers, or private practice settings.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be an arts therapist?

To thrive as an Arts Therapist, you need a solid background in psychology or counseling, expertise in a creative art form, and a relevant degree or professional registration (such as HCPC in the UK or ATR in the US). Familiarity with therapeutic frameworks, assessment tools, and client record management systems is also important. Strong interpersonal skills, empathy, creativity, and the ability to build rapport help arts therapists engage clients effectively. These skills and qualities are crucial for promoting emotional healing and personal growth through creative therapeutic processes.

How does an arts therapist collaborate with other healthcare professionals in a multidisciplinary team?

Arts Therapists often work closely with psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, and medical staff to develop comprehensive care plans for clients. Collaboration may involve attending team meetings, sharing observations, and integrating arts-based interventions with other therapeutic approaches. This teamwork ensures that each client's emotional, psychological, and social needs are addressed holistically. Regular communication and documentation are essential for coordinating care and tracking progress.

Is an arts therapist an in demand job?

Arts therapists are increasingly in demand as mental health awareness grows and healthcare providers recognize the benefits of creative therapies. Employment opportunities are often available in hospitals, schools, and community organizations, with a need for relevant certifications and experience in therapeutic techniques.

Is becoming an arts therapist worth it?

Arts therapists use creative methods such as art, music, or drama to support mental health and well-being, often working in healthcare, education, or community settings. The role typically requires relevant qualifications, such as a degree in art therapy or a related field, and may involve certification or licensing depending on the region. Job satisfaction can be high due to the meaningful impact on clients, but salaries vary based on experience and location.

What qualifications do I need for arts therapy?

Arts therapists typically need a relevant undergraduate degree in art therapy, psychology, or a related field, followed by a postgraduate qualification in art therapy accredited by a recognized body. Professional registration or licensing is often required, and strong communication, creativity, and interpersonal skills are essential for working with clients in various settings.
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What cities are hiring for Arts Therapist jobs?

Cities with the most Arts Therapist job openings:

What states have the most Arts Therapist jobs?

States with the most job openings for Arts Therapist jobs include:

Infographic showing various Arts Therapist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 6% As Needed, 51% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 26% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $66,321 per year, or $31.9 per hour.

Creative Arts Therapist

US Government Jobs

La Jolla, CA • On-site

Other

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Creative Arts Therapist (Art)

The Creative Arts Therapist (Art) at the VA San Diego Health Care System (VASDHCS) is aligned under Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Service providing rehabilitation for Veterans with complex conditions including amputation, paralysis, neurological and orthopedic disorders, behavioral health/psychiatric diagnoses, dementia, TBI, respiratory disorders, chronic cardiovascular disease, and multi-morbid presentations. This announcement may be used to fill future vacancies.