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Creative Writing Therapy Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Writes Progress notes for assigned patients and patients on the units. Responsibilities * Under the direction of the Creative Arts Therapy supervisor works to assess needs of patient population and ...

... creative writing, improv, music, movement, and intergenerational experiences. * Utilizes art therapy and counseling techniques to address key areas of focus including physical and cognitive ...

... creative writing, improv, music, movement, and intergenerational experiences. * Utilizes art therapy and counseling techniques to address key areas of focus including physical and cognitive ...

$52K - $73K/yr

Utilizes evidence-based therapeutic modalities in music, art, creative writing and journaling, while incorporating skills from various therapies, such as Dialectical Behavior Therapy and Cognitive ...

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Creative Writing Therapy information

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$39.5K

$62.2K

$91.5K

How much do creative writing therapy jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for creative writing therapy in the United States is $62,185.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,500.00 and $85,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How does a Creative Writing Therapist typically collaborate with other mental health professionals within a clinical setting?

Creative Writing Therapists often work closely with psychologists, counselors, and social workers to provide comprehensive care to clients. They may participate in interdisciplinary team meetings to discuss treatment plans, share progress notes, and tailor writing exercises to complement other therapeutic interventions. This collaborative environment ensures that clients receive holistic support, and it also allows therapists to learn new approaches and integrate different therapeutic techniques into their practice. Strong communication and teamwork skills are essential for success in this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Creative Writing Therapist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Creative Writing Therapist, you need a background in psychology or counseling, strong creative writing skills, and ideally a relevant certification or master's degree in therapy. Familiarity with therapeutic frameworks, client management software, and writing workshop facilitation tools is often required. Exceptional empathy, active listening, and the ability to foster a safe, nonjudgmental space help clients effectively express and process emotions. These competencies are crucial for guiding individuals through healing and personal growth using creative expression.

What is the difference between Creative Writing Therapy vs Art Therapist?

AspectCreative Writing TherapyArt Therapist
CredentialsTypically requires a master's degree in counseling, psychology, or related field; specialized training in creative writing therapyRequires a master's degree in art therapy or counseling; certification from the American Art Therapy Association
Work EnvironmentPrivate practice, mental health clinics, educational settings, hospitalsHospitals, clinics, schools, community centers
Industry UsageUsed in mental health treatment, educational programs, wellness initiativesUsed in mental health, rehabilitation, educational, and community settings

Creative Writing Therapy and Art Therapy both focus on using creative modalities for mental health and emotional well-being. While Creative Writing Therapy emphasizes writing as a therapeutic tool, Art Therapy involves visual arts. Both professions require advanced degrees and certifications, and they are employed in similar settings to support clients' mental health and personal growth.

What is creative writing therapy?

Creative writing therapy is a form of expressive therapy that uses the act of writing—such as journaling, poetry, storytelling, or other creative forms—as a tool to explore emotions, process experiences, and promote personal growth. Through guided writing exercises, individuals can express thoughts and feelings that may be difficult to verbalize, fostering self-discovery and emotional healing. This therapeutic approach is often facilitated by a trained therapist and can be beneficial for managing stress, trauma, anxiety, or depression. Sessions may be conducted individually or in groups and are tailored to fit each participant's needs.
More about Creative Writing Therapy jobs
What states have the most Creative Writing Therapy jobs? States with the most job openings for Creative Writing Therapy jobs include:
Infographic showing various Creative Writing Therapy job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 33% Full Time, and 67% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $62,185 per year, or $29.9 per hour.
Creative Art Therapist (CAT/LCAT)

Creative Art Therapist (CAT/LCAT)

University of Rochester

Rochester, NY • On-site

$20.99 - $28.34/hr

Full-time

Posted 28 days ago


University Of Rochester rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 179 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

95th of 535 rated colleges and universities


Job description

As a community, the University of Rochester is defined by a deep commitment to Meliora - Ever Better. Embedded in that ideal are the values we share: equity, leadership, integrity, openness, respect, and accountability. Together, we will set the highest standards for how we treat each other to ensure our community is welcoming to all and is a place where all can thrive.

Job Location (Full Address):

220 Hutchison Rd, Rochester, New York, United States of America, 14620

Opening:

Work Shift:

UR - Day (United States of America)

Range:

Compensation Range:

$20.99 - $28.34

The referenced pay range represents the minimum and maximum compensation for this job. Individual annual salaries/hourly rates will be set within the job's compensation range, and will be determined by considering factors including, but not limited to, market data, education, experience, qualifications, expertise of the individual, and internal equity considerations.

Responsibilities:

GENERAL PURPOSE:
Provides art-based psychotherapeutic programs to adolescents and adults struggling with health disabilities, trauma, depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. Observes and discusses patients' artistic creations to gain insight into their behavior and inner conflicts. Assesses client needs and develops and implements visual art projects such as collage making, painting, and sculpture to encourage self-expression and communication. Improves the sensorimotor and cognitive function of clients and increases their emotional and mental coping skills by helping clients to produce different types of art media. Schedules and runs art therapy sessions for individuals or group workshops. Writes progress reports and case summaries. May work on a team of medical and social service professionals to coordinate the treatment plan for a client.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
- Plans, organizes, and facilitates daily therapeutic groups and activities, focusing on individual needs/strengths of the patients. Utilizes evidence-based, therapeutic modalities in art, music, creative writing and journaling, while incorporating skills from various therapies, such as Dialectical Behavior Therapy and Cognitive therapy.
- Observes, assesses and manages patient's behaviors and interactions with peers and staff, while facilitating groups or direct interventions. Provides therapeutic interventions as needed. Utilizes CPI methods when managing challenging behaviors.
- Conducts and documents initial interview/assessment of newly admitted patients to determine readiness/appropriateness for participation in groups or individual sessions. Documents each patient's weekly treatment goals, interventions, daily progress in groups/individual sessions, and level of participation.
- Communicates effectively by attending daily morning/evening report. Attends treatment planning, as scheduling permits. Attends monthly team meetings and participates in Unit Council as needed. Communicates effectively with staff regarding any behavioral issues observed in groups and 1:1's. May also participate in sub-committees or serve as a designated Unit-Champion.
- Responsible for maintaining equipment and supplies. Inventories assigned unit group/activity supplies and initiates ordering of supplies/equipment through approved vendors while staying within budget. Provides observation opportunities/guidance for interns, shadowing students, and prospective hires. Assists with orientation for new hires.
- Other duties as assigned.
MINIMUM EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE
- Bachelor's degree in relevant Behavioral Health field required
- Master's degree preferred
- Or equivalent combination of education and experience
LICENSES AND CERTIFICATIONS


- Licensed Creative Arts Therapist (LCAT) upon hire preferred

The University of Rochester is committed to fostering, cultivating, and preserving an inclusive and welcoming culture to advance the University's Mission to Learn, Discover, Heal, Create - and Make the World Ever Better. In support of our values and those of our society, the University is committed to not discriminating on the basis of age, color, disability, ethnicity, gender identity or expression, genetic information, marital status, military/veteran status, national origin, race, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, citizenship status,or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law (Protected Characteristics). This commitment extends to non-discrimination in the administration of our policies, admissions, employment, access, and recruitment of candidates, for all persons consistent with our values and based on applicable law.


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