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Expressive Therapy Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

Bachelor's degree in recreational or expressive therapy and one of the following certifications:Certified Therapeutic Recreational Specialist (CTRS), Board Certified Music Therapist (MT-BC), Board ...

Plans, schedules and implements expressive therapy programs to meet needs, interests and capabilities of patient population. Implements program of therapeutic activities to assist participants in ...

Plans, schedules and implements expressive therapy programs to meet needs, interests and capabilities of patient population. Implements program of therapeutic activities to assist participants in ...

Facilitates artistic, expressive and/or creative therapy groups, as planned above, minimum of 1x weekly for all residents as assigned by the Master group schedule and as prescribed according to the ...

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Expressive Therapy information

See Florida salary details

$19.8K

$49.4K

$73.2K

How much do expressive therapy jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for expressive therapy in Florida is $49,419.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37,700.00 and $58,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is expressive therapy?

Expressive therapy is a form of psychotherapy that uses creative arts—such as music, art, dance, drama, or writing—as a therapeutic tool. It helps individuals express emotions, process experiences, and promote mental well-being through creative expression. This approach can be especially helpful when traditional talk therapy is challenging, as it allows for non-verbal communication and exploration of feelings. Expressive therapy is used with people of all ages and backgrounds, in both individual and group settings.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an expressive therapist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Expressive Therapist, you need a background in psychology or counseling, specialized training in expressive arts therapies, and often a relevant master’s degree with state licensure. Familiarity with assessment tools, documentation systems, and therapeutic art modalities such as music, dance, or drama therapy is typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, creativity, empathy, and the ability to build trust help practitioners connect deeply with clients. These skills are crucial for facilitating healing, fostering self-expression, and supporting clients' emotional well-being through creative therapeutic processes.

What are some common challenges expressive therapists face when working with diverse client populations?

Expressive therapists often work with clients from varied cultural, linguistic, and socioeconomic backgrounds, which can present challenges in ensuring that therapeutic approaches are accessible and meaningful for everyone. Adapting creative modalities—such as art, music, or movement—to respect clients' values and comfort levels requires sensitivity and ongoing learning. Therapists may also encounter resistance from clients unfamiliar with expressive techniques, so building trust and providing clear explanations is essential. Collaborating with other mental health professionals and participating in cultural competency training can help address these challenges and enhance therapeutic outcomes.

What is the difference between Expressive Therapy vs Art Therapist?

AspectExpressive TherapyArt Therapist
CredentialsMaster's degree in mental health or counseling, certification in expressive arts therapiesMaster's degree in art therapy, certification or registration with art therapy associations
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, schools, private practice, community centersHospitals, mental health clinics, schools, private practice, rehabilitation centers
Industry UsageUsed broadly across mental health disciplines, integrating multiple expressive artsPrimarily focused on art therapy, using visual arts as a therapeutic tool

Expressive Therapy is a broad approach incorporating various expressive arts, while Art Therapist specializes specifically in using visual arts for therapy. Both roles require similar credentials and often work in similar environments, but their focus and techniques differ. Understanding these distinctions helps clients choose the right professional for their needs.

How do you become an expressive therapist?

To become an expressive therapist, you typically need a bachelor's degree in a related field such as psychology, art, or music therapy, followed by a master's degree in expressive arts therapy or a similar discipline. Certification or licensure may be required depending on the state or country, and developing skills in various expressive modalities like art, music, dance, or drama is essential for practice.

What does an expressive therapy do?

An expressive therapist uses creative arts such as art, music, dance, or drama to help clients express emotions, improve mental health, and process experiences. They often work in mental health, healthcare, or educational settings and may hold certifications in art therapy or related fields. The approach emphasizes non-verbal communication and emotional expression to support healing and personal growth.

What job categories do people searching Expressive Therapy jobs in Florida look for?

The top searched job categories for Expressive Therapy jobs in Florida are:

Infographic showing various Expressive Therapy job openings in Florida as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% As Needed, 62% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 17% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,419 per year, or $23.8 per hour.

Other

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

Activity Therapist

Responsibilities University Behavioral Center, a subsidiary of Universal Health Services, Inc. (UHS), is committed to providing intensive mental health services to children, adolescents and adults as well as detox and substance abuse programs for adults. Our mental health facility provides safe and effective inpatient treatment to assist individuals in leading more productive and fulfilling lives. The facility is located on a beautiful 14-acre campus in Orlando, Florida, and includes 112 licensed beds. We are currently seeking qualified professionals with active/clear license in the state of Florida. Previous experience in a psychiatric facility or rehabilitation program is required.

Position Summary: The Activity Therapist is responsible for providing high quality patient care, displaying good skills in assessment, treatment planning, and group therapy treatments within their area of specialty. The Activity Therapist is responsible for completing an activity therapy assessment for both adult and adolescent patients in an acute psychiatric / detox facility. The Activity Therapist will provide groups per the unit schedules and document accurately each individual's participation. This is a Per-Diem position.

Qualifications Master's Degree in related field and working toward or has already obtained a certification in the fields of expressive, music, art, recreation, occupational, or physical therapy. OR Bachelor's degree in recreational or expressive therapy and one of the following certifications: Certified Therapeutic Recreational Specialist (CTRS), Board Certified Music Therapist (MT-BC), Board Certified Art Therapist (ATR-BC), or other Certified Expressive Therapist modality

Physical Requirements: Able to lift 50 pounds with frequent lifting and carrying of object weighing up to 25 lbs. Physically fit to demonstrate and conduct recreational activities for patients. Physical ability to restrain patients through use of hospital approved methods.