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Expressive Therapy Jobs (NOW HIRING)

UHS

Expressive Therapist - PRN

Newark, DE · On-site

Develop and implement expressive therapy treatment plans that are age appropriate, and consistent with overall treatment goals. * Facilitates patient groups that are well prepared and beneficial to ...

UHS

EXPRESSIVE THERAPIST - PRN/PER DIEM

Franklin, TN · On-site

The Expressive Therapist will aid patients in achieving treatment goals identified by the ... Certified Recreational Therapy Specialist (CRTS) * Music Therapist Registered (MT-BC) * Art ...

Roots To Grow

$40 - $50/hr

Provide expressive therapy interventions (art, music, play) tailored to the unique needs of children and families receiving palliative care services. * Develop individualized care plans that align ...

UHS

Expressive Therapist (BA)

Lexington, KY · On-site

... expressive therapy program based upon each units needs and demographics; d eveloping and implementing Recreation Therapy treatment plans in conjunction with and attends the interdisciplinary ...

UHS

Expressive Therapist (BA)

Lexington, KY

... expressive therapy program based upon each units needs and demographics; developing and ... implementing Recreation Therapy treatment plans in conjunction with and attends the ...

ScionHealth

Expressive Therapist

Dayton, OH · On-site

$27.77 - $41.26/hr

Job Summary As an Expressive Therapist you will be responsible for providing direct clinical ... These include art therapy, music therapy and dance/movement therapy and certifications allowing for ...

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Expressive Therapy information

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$26.5K

$66.1K

$98K

How much do expressive therapy jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for expressive therapy in the United States is $66,131.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,500.00 and $78,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What can you do with a certificate in expressive arts therapy?

A certificate in expressive arts therapy prepares individuals to facilitate creative therapies using art, music, dance, or drama to support emotional and psychological well-being. With this certification, professionals can work in mental health clinics, schools, hospitals, or private practice, often collaborating with licensed therapists or counselors. It enhances skills in creative expression and therapeutic techniques, but additional licensing or certification may be required for independent practice depending on the region.

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 does an expressive therapist do?

An expressive therapist uses creative arts such as art, music, dance, or drama to help clients express emotions, process experiences, and improve mental health. They often work in mental health, healthcare, or educational settings and may hold certifications in expressive arts therapies or related fields. Their goal is to facilitate emotional healing and self-awareness through non-verbal and creative techniques.

What are the requirements to be an expressive arts therapist?

To become an expressive arts therapist, individuals typically need a master's degree in expressive arts therapy, counseling, psychology, or a related field. Certification or licensure varies by state or country but often requires supervised clinical hours and passing a licensing exam. Strong interpersonal skills, creativity, and knowledge of various art modalities are also important for the role.

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 field of therapy makes the most money?

In the field of therapy, psychiatrists typically earn the highest salaries due to their medical training and ability to prescribe medication. Psychologists and licensed clinical social workers also have high earning potential, especially with advanced degrees and specialized skills. Earnings can vary based on location, experience, and work setting.

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.

More about Expressive Therapy jobs
What cities are hiring for Expressive Therapy jobs? Cities with the most Expressive Therapy job openings:
What states have the most Expressive Therapy jobs? States with the most job openings for Expressive Therapy jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Expressive Therapy jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Expressive Therapy jobs are:
Expressive Therapy jobs near you
Infographic showing various Expressive Therapy job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% Locum Tenens, 4% As Needed, 54% Full Time, 31% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 5% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $66,131 per year, or $31.8 per hour.
PRN Behavioral Health Expressive Therapist

PRN Behavioral Health Expressive Therapist

The University of Kansas Health System

Overland Park, KS • On-site

Per diem

Posted 16 days ago

University Of Kansas Health System rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 173 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

231st of 881 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Position Title
PRN Behavioral Health Expressive Therapist
Marillac Campus
Position Summary / Career Interest:
The Expressive Therapist, under the direction of the Clinical Manager, has the responsibility to provide primarily group therapy to patients. The role of this position incudes the development, organization, coordination, and implementation of therapeutic activities which may include music, art, recreation, or drama.
Responsibilities and Essential Job Functions
  • Must be able to perform the professional, clinical and or technical competencies of the assigned unit or department.
  • Acquires and maintains knowledge and competence related to the expectations of their position by participating in workshops, reviewing professional publications and establishing personal networks.
  • Accepts responsibility and accountability for achievement of optimal outcomes within their scope of practice. Follows policies, procedures and standards; adheres to a professional code of ethics. Assumes responsibility for the risk and safety issues associated with the position.
  • Assumes responsibility for continuity and quality of patient care and treatment.
  • Facilitates the implementation of the treatment plan utilizing appropriate treatment methodologies. Schedules and completes group therapy daily. Monitors the patient's progression toward treatment goals.
  • Must be able to perform the professional, clinical and or technical competencies of the assigned unit or department.
  • These statements are intended to describe the essential functions of the job and are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities. Skills and duties may vary dependent upon your department or unit. Other duties may be assigned as required.

Required Education and Experience
  • High School Graduate
  • Bachelors Degree in related expressive therapy filed (Music and Recreation Therapy)
    OR
    Master's Degree in related expressive therapy field (Art and Drama Therapy)
  • Master's Degree

Preferred Licensure and Certification
  • Specialized Certification, i.e. CTRS, MT-BC, ATR, RDT

Knowledge Requirements
  • Computer literate; working knowledge of all applicable software programs
  • Ability to engage clients and families

Time Type:
Job Requisition ID:
R-43303
Important information for you to know as you apply:
  • The health system is an equal employment opportunity employer. Qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, ancestry, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other legally-protected status. See also Diversity, Equity & Inclusion.
  • The health system provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities. If you need to request reasonable accommodations for your disability as you navigate the recruitment process, please let our recruiters know by requesting an Accommodation Request form using this link asktalentacquisition@kumc.edu.
  • Employment with the health system is contingent upon, among other things, agreeing to the health-system-dispute-resolution-program.pdf and signing the agreement to the DRP.

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About University of Kansas Health System

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Operating within the healthcare industry, The University of Kansas Health System is a renowned medical institution located in Kansas City, KS, United States. Established in 1905, this not-for-profit health system has evolved to offer an extensive range of products and services, which spans across a variety of specialist areas such as cancer care, neurology, cardiology, and organ transplants, among others. The core mission of The University of Kansas Health System is to enhance the health and wellness of individuals and communities by providing world-class healthcare services, quality education and conducting advanced research. They are also known for their unwavering commitment to academic medicine, which sets them apart from their peers.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Kansas City, KS, US

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