If you're passionate about art and helping others, art therapy might be the perfect career path for you. In Florida, there are several top-notch certification programs that can help you get started on this rewarding journey. Whether you're a creative soul looking to make a difference or someone who's interested in combining art with mental health, these programs will equip you with the knowledge and skills you need to succeed. Let’s dive into the best art therapy certification options available in the Sunshine State!

Studying art therapy offers a unique opportunity to explore the intersection of creativity and mental health. By combining artistic expression with therapeutic techniques, art therapy enables individuals to communicate emotions, process trauma, and improve their overall well-being in ways that traditional talk therapy may not. It taps into the power of visual art to help people express feelings that might be difficult to articulate with words, allowing them to explore their inner world in a safe and supportive environment. The process of creating art can help individuals relax, reduce stress, and gain a deeper understanding of themselves, all while developing new coping skills for managing emotional challenges.

Art therapy is also a rewarding and impactful career path, as it offers the chance to make a real difference in people’s lives. Studying this field equips students with the knowledge and skills needed to support individuals with a wide range of emotional and psychological challenges, such as anxiety, depression, and trauma. Art therapists work in various settings, including hospitals, schools, rehabilitation centers, and private practices, helping clients of all ages. Whether it’s guiding children through trauma recovery or helping adults cope with stress, art therapy provides a creative and empathetic approach to healing, making it a fulfilling and meaningful profession for those passionate about both art and helping others.

1. Florida State University College of Education

Florida State University offers an art therapy certification through its College of Education. The program is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of art therapy theory, practice, and ethics. Students will gain both theoretical knowledge and practical experience to prepare them for the field of art therapy. This program is ideal for individuals looking to pursue careers as licensed art therapists.

The curriculum includes coursework on art therapy techniques, assessment, and clinical practices. Students also have opportunities to complete supervised clinical hours in various settings. The program aims to blend creativity and psychology to help individuals achieve therapeutic outcomes.

Training Path Summary:

• Institution: Florida State University, College of Education
• Program Focus: Comprehensive understanding of art therapy theory, practice, and ethics
• Ideal For: Individuals seeking careers as licensed art therapists
• Curriculum: Includes coursework on art therapy techniques, assessment, and clinical practices
• Practical Experience: Supervised clinical hours in various settings
• Program Goal: To blend creativity and psychology for therapeutic outcomes

2. University of Miami - Art Therapy Program

The University of Miami offers a robust graduate certificate program in art therapy, which is designed for professionals with a background in psychology, counseling, or related fields. The program provides an in-depth exploration of art therapy techniques and their application in clinical and community settings.

Participants will explore art therapy as a tool for healing in a variety of populations. The program emphasizes experiential learning and creative methods, along with the development of skills in group and individual therapy. Students also engage in hands-on practice with clients under supervision.

Training Path Summary:

• Institution: University of Miami
• Program Focus: Graduate certificate in art therapy for professionals with backgrounds in psychology, counseling, or related fields
• Curriculum: In-depth exploration of art therapy techniques and their application in clinical and community settings
• Learning Emphasis: Experiential learning and creative methods
• Skills Development: Focus on group and individual therapy
• Practical Experience: Hands-on practice with clients under supervision
• Target Populations: Exploration of art therapy as a tool for healing in various populations

3. Nova Southeastern University - Master’s in Art Therapy

Nova Southeastern University offers a Master of Science in Art Therapy program that prepares students for licensure and professional practice. The curriculum combines art therapy theory with psychological and counseling principles. Students will develop skills in using art to help individuals express emotions, cope with trauma, and manage mental health conditions.

The program includes a combination of academic coursework and fieldwork placements. Students will gain hands-on experience through internships in hospitals, clinics, schools, and other mental health facilities. Upon completion, graduates are equipped to work in various therapeutic settings.

Training Path Summary:

• Institution: Nova Southeastern University
• Program: Master of Science in Art Therapy
• Focus: Prepares students for licensure and professional practice
• Curriculum: Combines art therapy theory with psychological and counseling principles
• Skill Development: Using art to help individuals express emotions, cope with trauma, and manage mental health conditions
• Fieldwork: Includes academic coursework and fieldwork placements
• Practical Experience: Internships in hospitals, clinics, schools, and mental health facilities
• Career Readiness: Graduates are equipped to work in various therapeutic settings

4. Rollins College - Art Therapy and Mental Health Counseling

Rollins College offers a unique program that integrates art therapy and mental health counseling. This program prepares students to work with individuals and groups in a variety of therapeutic settings, focusing on the healing power of creativity. Students learn how to incorporate art therapy techniques into broader mental health counseling practices.

The program is built to provide a balanced understanding of both art therapy and counseling, ensuring that graduates are prepared to handle diverse clinical issues. Field placements in various mental health settings offer practical experience, allowing students to refine their therapeutic skills.

Training Path Summary:

• Institution: Rollins College
• Program Focus: Integrates art therapy and mental health counseling
• Curriculum: Teaches students to incorporate art therapy techniques into broader mental health counseling practices
• Skill Development: Provides a balanced understanding of both art therapy and counseling
• Practical Experience: Field placements in various mental health settings
• Therapeutic Application: Focus on healing through creativity and addressing diverse clinical issues
• Career Preparation: Graduates are equipped to work with individuals and groups in various therapeutic settings

5. The Art Therapy Institute of Florida

The Art Therapy Institute of Florida offers a comprehensive training program for individuals interested in pursuing a career in art therapy. The institute provides a certificate program that emphasizes both the theoretical and practical aspects of art therapy. Students learn how to use art as a medium for communication and healing in various therapeutic contexts.

The program includes coursework in psychology, art therapy techniques, and ethical considerations. Students also participate in clinical internships to gain real-world experience working with clients in a supervised setting.

Training Path Summary:

• Institution: The Art Therapy Institute of Florida
• Program: Certificate program in art therapy
• Focus: Emphasizes both theoretical and practical aspects of art therapy
• Skill Development: Teaches how to use art as a medium for communication and healing in therapeutic contexts
• Curriculum: Includes coursework in psychology, art therapy techniques, and ethical considerations
• Practical Experience: Clinical internships for real-world experience in a supervised setting
• Career Readiness: Prepares students to work with clients in various therapeutic environments

6. The Florida Art Therapy Association (FATA)

The Florida Art Therapy Association offers professional development and certification for art therapists in the state of Florida. While not an educational institution, FATA provides resources and guidance for those pursuing certification in art therapy, including information on licensure, continuing education, and workshops.

FATA is also a key organization for networking within the art therapy community, offering members access to conferences, workshops, and educational materials. The association provides support to both new and experienced art therapists looking to advance their practice.

Training Path Summary:

• Organization: Florida Art Therapy Association (FATA)
• Focus: Professional development and certification for art therapists in Florida
• Resources Provided: Information on licensure, continuing education, and workshops
• Networking Opportunities: Access to conferences, workshops, and educational materials
• Support: Offers guidance for both new and experienced art therapists
• Community Engagement: Key organization for networking within the art therapy community
• Career Advancement: Supports art therapists looking to advance their practice through professional resources and development opportunities

7. The Creative Arts Therapy Program at Florida Atlantic University

Florida Atlantic University offers a Creative Arts Therapy program that provides a foundation in using creative methods such as art, music, and drama in therapeutic settings. While the focus is not exclusively on art therapy, the program incorporates art as one of the core modalities in therapeutic practices.

Students in this program gain an understanding of how to integrate creative arts into therapeutic techniques and work with clients in a variety of settings, including mental health facilities, schools, and community centers.

Training Path Summary:

• Institution: Florida Atlantic University
• Program: Creative Arts Therapy program
• Focus: Foundation in using creative methods like art, music, and drama in therapeutic settings
• Core Modality: Incorporates art as one of the core modalities in therapeutic practices
• Skill Development: Teaches integration of creative arts into therapeutic techniques
• Practical Experience: Work with clients in various settings, including mental health facilities, schools, and community centers
• Therapeutic Application: Prepares students to use creative arts in diverse therapeutic contexts

8. The University of Central Florida - Art Therapy Specialization

The University of Central Florida offers an art therapy specialization within its counseling and clinical mental health program. This program is designed for students who want to integrate art therapy into their counseling practices. The specialization offers students the opportunity to study art therapy in conjunction with psychological counseling techniques.

The program emphasizes how art therapy can be used to help individuals cope with emotional and psychological challenges. Students gain practical experience through supervised clinical hours, allowing them to refine their skills in a real-world setting.

Training Path Summary:

• Institution: University of Central Florida
• Program: Art therapy specialization within the counseling and clinical mental health program
• Focus: Integrates art therapy with psychological counseling techniques
• Skill Development: Emphasizes using art therapy to help individuals cope with emotional and psychological challenges
• Practical Experience: Includes supervised clinical hours for real-world experience
• Career Readiness: Prepares students to refine their skills and apply art therapy in various therapeutic settings

9. Miami Dade College - Art Therapy Courses

Miami Dade College offers individual art therapy courses as part of its continuing education program. These courses are designed for those looking to gain foundational knowledge and skills in the field of art therapy without committing to a full degree program. The courses provide an introduction to art therapy techniques and their therapeutic applications.

These non-degree courses are ideal for individuals who are considering a career change or who wish to incorporate art therapy into their existing professional practice. The college offers a flexible format that accommodates busy schedules, making it a convenient option for working professionals.

Training Path Summary:

• Institution: Miami Dade College
• Program: Individual art therapy courses within the continuing education program
• Focus: Provides foundational knowledge and skills in art therapy
• Curriculum: Introduction to art therapy techniques and their therapeutic applications
• Target Audience: Ideal for individuals considering a career change or those looking to incorporate art therapy into their existing practice
• Format: Flexible, non-degree courses designed to accommodate busy schedules
• Career Benefits: Convenient option for working professionals seeking to expand their skill set in art therapy

10. The Art Therapy Program at the University of North Florida

The University of North Florida offers a graduate-level art therapy program designed for students pursuing careers in mental health counseling. The program combines the study of counseling theories with the use of art therapy to provide therapeutic services in various clinical settings. Students participate in supervised clinical practice to gain hands-on experience.

Graduates of the program are equipped to work in a variety of therapeutic environments, including hospitals, schools, and private practices. The curriculum emphasizes the importance of art in facilitating emotional expression and healing.

Training Path Summary:

• Institution: University of North Florida
• Program: Graduate-level art therapy program for students pursuing careers in mental health counseling
• Curriculum: Combines counseling theories with the use of art therapy in therapeutic services
• Practical Experience: Includes supervised clinical practice for hands-on experience
• Career Readiness: Graduates are equipped to work in hospitals, schools, private practices, and other therapeutic environments
• Program Focus: Emphasizes the role of art in facilitating emotional expression and healing

11. Palm Beach State College - Art Therapy Courses

Palm Beach State College offers art therapy courses through its continuing education program. These courses are designed for individuals who want to learn the fundamentals of art therapy and incorporate it into their professional practice. The courses cover a wide range of topics, including art therapy techniques, ethics, and applications in mental health settings.

Students can take these courses on a flexible schedule, making them ideal for busy professionals. The courses are designed to provide foundational knowledge for those interested in exploring art therapy as a career or professional development option.

Training Path Summary:

• Institution: Palm Beach State College
• Program: Art therapy courses through the continuing education program
• Focus: Provides fundamental knowledge of art therapy and its incorporation into professional practice
• Curriculum: Covers art therapy techniques, ethics, and applications in mental health settings
• Format: Flexible schedule, ideal for busy professionals
• Target Audience: Designed for individuals exploring art therapy as a career or for professional development
• Career Benefits: Offers foundational knowledge for those looking to integrate art therapy into their existing practice or pursue it as a career option

12. The Art Therapy Program at the University of South Florida

The University of South Florida offers an art therapy program that prepares students for careers as professional art therapists. The program combines theoretical coursework with practical, clinical training. Students learn to use art as a therapeutic tool to help clients with emotional, psychological, and behavioral issues.

Graduates of the program are equipped to work in a range of therapeutic settings, including hospitals, schools, and rehabilitation centers. The program emphasizes the ethical and effective use of art in therapy and is accredited by relevant professional bodies.

Training Path Summary:

• Institution: University of South Florida
• Program: Art therapy program preparing students for careers as professional art therapists
• Curriculum: Combines theoretical coursework with practical, clinical training
• Skill Development: Teaches students to use art as a therapeutic tool for addressing emotional, psychological, and behavioral issues
• Career Readiness: Graduates are equipped to work in hospitals, schools, rehabilitation centers, and other therapeutic settings
• Program Focus: Emphasizes the ethical and effective use of art in therapy
• Accreditation: Accredited by relevant professional bodies for high standards in art therapy training

13. The Art Therapy Program at Barry University

Barry University offers an art therapy program that provides students with the knowledge and skills necessary to become effective art therapists. The program includes courses in art therapy theory, psychological principles, and hands-on clinical experience. Students gain experience working with diverse populations in a variety of therapeutic environments.

Barry University's program is designed to equip students with the tools they need to use art therapy in various settings, including mental health clinics, schools, and private practices. The program prepares graduates for licensure and professional practice.

Training Path Summary:

• Institution: Barry University
• Program: Art therapy program providing knowledge and skills for effective art therapists
• Curriculum: Includes courses in art therapy theory, psychological principles, and hands-on clinical experience
• Practical Experience: Students gain experience working with diverse populations in a variety of therapeutic environments
• Career Preparation: Prepares students to use art therapy in settings such as mental health clinics, schools, and private practices
• Licensure: Equips graduates for licensure and professional practice in art therapy
• Program Focus: Emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary for effective art therapy practice

14. The Art Therapy Program at the University of Florida

The University of Florida offers a comprehensive program in art therapy that prepares students for careers as licensed art therapists. The program includes a mix of theoretical courses in art therapy techniques, psychology, and clinical practices. Students also complete supervised clinical training to gain experience working with clients in real-world settings.

The program is designed to provide a deep understanding of the healing power of art and how it can be integrated into therapeutic practices. Graduates are prepared to work with a variety of populations, including children, adults, and individuals with special needs.

Training Path Summary:

• Institution: University of Florida
• Program: Comprehensive art therapy program preparing students for careers as licensed art therapists
• Curriculum: Includes theoretical courses in art therapy techniques, psychology, and clinical practices
• Practical Experience: Students complete supervised clinical training to gain experience working with clients in real-world settings
• Program Focus: Emphasizes the healing power of art and its integration into therapeutic practices
• Target Populations: Graduates are prepared to work with children, adults, and individuals with special needs
• Career Readiness: Equips students to work in various therapeutic environments as licensed art therapists

15. University of Tampa - Art Therapy Studies

The University of Tampa offers a series of art therapy courses designed to provide students with a foundational understanding of art therapy techniques. These courses are ideal for students who wish to explore the field before committing to a full degree program.

Students in the program learn to integrate artistic expression into therapeutic practices. The courses emphasize the use of art to promote emotional healing and personal growth.

Training Path Summary:

• Institution: University of Tampa
• Program: Series of art therapy courses offering a foundational understanding of art therapy techniques
• Target Audience: Ideal for students exploring the field before committing to a full degree program
• Curriculum: Focuses on integrating artistic expression into therapeutic practices
• Program Emphasis: Promotes emotional healing and personal growth through the use of art
• Skill Development: Provides students with essential knowledge to begin working with art as a therapeutic tool

16. Art Therapy Program at the University of Jacksonville

The University of Jacksonville offers a certification program that introduces students to the key principles and practices of art therapy. The program provides a solid foundation for students interested in using art in a therapeutic setting, with a strong emphasis on hands-on learning and personal development.

Students are taught to apply art therapy techniques across diverse populations, with opportunities to complete internships in various clinical settings. The program helps students develop their own creative processes alongside therapeutic practices.

Training Path Summary:

• Institution: University of Jacksonville
• Program: Certification program introducing students to key principles and practices of art therapy
• Curriculum: Provides a solid foundation in using art in therapeutic settings, with a focus on hands-on learning and personal development
• Skill Development: Teaches students to apply art therapy techniques across diverse populations
• Practical Experience: Offers opportunities for internships in various clinical settings
• Program Emphasis: Helps students develop their own creative processes alongside therapeutic practices

17. Florida Gulf Coast University - Art Therapy Program

Florida Gulf Coast University offers a comprehensive art therapy program focused on the integration of creative techniques into therapeutic practices. The program provides a balance of academic coursework and clinical training, preparing students to work in mental health and other therapeutic settings.

The program emphasizes the therapeutic power of art, helping individuals address emotional and psychological challenges. Graduates are prepared for licensure and a variety of professional roles in the field of art therapy.

Training Path Summary:

• Institution: Florida Gulf Coast University
• Program: Comprehensive art therapy program focusing on integrating creative techniques into therapeutic practices
• Curriculum: A balance of academic coursework and clinical training
• Career Readiness: Prepares students to work in mental health and other therapeutic settings
• Program Emphasis: Focuses on the therapeutic power of art to address emotional and psychological challenges
• Licensure Preparation: Equips graduates for licensure and various professional roles in art therapy

18. Eckerd College - Art Therapy Specialization

Eckerd College offers a graduate-level specialization in art therapy as part of its broader counseling program. The specialization allows students to explore how art can be used to help clients cope with trauma, stress, and mental health challenges. Students complete coursework in both counseling and art therapy techniques, gaining a thorough understanding of both fields.

The program includes practical experience through internships in various therapeutic settings. Graduates are equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to pursue licensure and professional practice as art therapists.

Training Path Summary:

• Institution: Eckerd College
• Program: Graduate-level specialization in art therapy within the broader counseling program
• Curriculum: Combines coursework in counseling and art therapy techniques
• Program Focus: Explores how art can be used to help clients cope with trauma, stress, and mental health challenges
• Practical Experience: Includes internships in various therapeutic settings for hands-on learning
• Career Preparation: Equips graduates with the knowledge and skills to pursue licensure and professional practice as art therapists

At Lina Therapy, we’re passionate about using art therapy to foster self-love, build self-worth, and boost self-confidence. That’s why we developed Lina: Art Therapy & Self-Love – an app where creativity merges with emotional well-being. Available on both iPad and iOS, our platform helps users dive into their emotions and grow personally through guided drawing activities and therapeutic exercises. By integrating mindfulness techniques with creative expression, Lina helps users form a deeper connection with themselves.

Focused on self-discovery, Lina provides structured exercises that guide users in emotional processing and confidence building. Whether you're looking for a self-care ritual or a creative outlet, our app creates a supportive space for emotional resilience and personal expression.

For added inspiration and community engagement, we’ve curated stories and creative journeys from users on Pinterest. You can also follow us on Instagram for regular updates, creative prompts, and behind-the-scenes content. On TikTok, we share self-care tips and short guided exercises, offering easy ways to integrate art therapy into your daily routine.

Choosing the right art therapy certification program in Florida can be a pivotal decision in shaping your career as an art therapist. Start by considering the program's accreditation, as this ensures it meets professional standards and qualifies you for licensure. It's important to review the curriculum to ensure it aligns with your interests and career goals - look for programs that balance theoretical knowledge with practical experience. Some programs offer specialized tracks, such as working with specific populations (children, trauma survivors, or individuals with disabilities), so make sure to pick one that suits your preferred area of focus.

Another factor to consider is the flexibility of the program. If you're already working or have other commitments, look for programs that offer evening or weekend classes, or even online options. Lastly, consider the opportunity for hands-on experience through internships or clinical placements. These real-world experiences are vital for developing your skills and preparing for professional practice. Research the faculty as well - experienced, knowledgeable instructors can provide valuable mentorship and insight into the field.

Completing an art therapy certification in Florida opens up a variety of rewarding career opportunities in the mental health and wellness field. As a certified art therapist, you can work in diverse therapeutic settings, including hospitals, schools, rehabilitation centers, private practices, and community mental health organizations. The ability to integrate art into therapeutic practices provides a unique approach to treating emotional, psychological, and behavioral issues, making art therapists valuable assets in multidisciplinary teams.

In addition to traditional therapeutic settings, there are also opportunities to work with specialized populations, such as children with autism, elderly individuals in nursing homes, or veterans dealing with PTSD. Many art therapists choose to start their own private practices, offering more flexibility and control over their work. The demand for licensed art therapists continues to grow as more people recognize the healing potential of creative expression, making it a promising field with numerous career paths and job stability.

Choosing the right art therapy certification program in Florida can be a life-changing decision for those looking to pursue a career in this meaningful field. Whether you’re passionate about helping others heal through creative expression or want to dive deeper into the therapeutic potential of art, Florida offers a variety of programs that cater to different needs and career paths.

From in-depth master’s degrees to short-term certification programs, the state has options for everyone, whether you’re just starting out or looking to expand your skills. As you explore these programs, remember to think about your personal goals, preferred learning styles, and where you want your career to take you.

No matter which program you choose, the journey into art therapy can be incredibly rewarding, offering you the tools to help others express their emotions, heal from trauma, and find peace through creativity. With the right certification, you'll be well on your way to making a positive impact in the lives of others while fulfilling your own passion for art and therapy.