Setting the Standard for Professional Excellence in Art Therapy
Our certification and credentialing programs are designed to elevate professionals, enhance careers, and uphold the highest industry standards. Join us in shaping the future of art therapy through proven excellence.
New: Authorized Art Therapy Continuing Education Provider (AATCEP) Program
Set the standard for continuing education in art therapy. ATCB’s new Authorized Art Therapy Continuing Education Provider (AATCEP) Program ensures art therapists have access to trusted, high-quality learning. Discover how you can be part of it.
Why Credentials and Certifications Matter
ATCB credentials and certifications benefits not only art therapy professionals but also the consumers and the general public. When individuals seek art therapy services, an ATCB credential offers assurance that the therapist possesses the necessary knowledge, skills, and experience to deliver high-quality care while adhering to ethical guidelines.
Our Certifications and Credentials
Credentialing and certification through the Art Therapy Credentials Board (ATCB) serve as a professional benchmark, affirming both competency and ethical adherence in the practice of art therapy. Our credentials are considered voluntary, although many employers and some state licensure boards require the credentials or the exam.
Registered Art Therapist
The Provisional Registered Art Therapist (ATR-P) credential is designed for individuals working toward full Registered Art Therapist (ATR) status. The ATR credential ensures that an art therapist has successfully met established standards in education and supervised post-graduate clinical practice. The ATR is requires for Board Certification.
Board Certified
The Board Certified Registered Art Therapist (ATR-BC) is the highest professional distinction in art therapy, signifying advanced competency. This credential is awarded to ATRs who successfully pass the national board certification examination, demonstrating comprehensive knowledge of art therapy theories and clinical applications.
Credentialed Supervisor
Board Certified Registered Art Therapists (for at least three years) who provide supervision may pursue the Art Therapy Credentialed Supervisor (ATCS) credential. This designation signifies advanced expertise in art therapy practice and clinical supervision, ensuring that early-career professionals receive high-quality mentorship from qualified supervisors.
Find An Art Therapist
Certification is an important consideration when choosing your art therapist. To find an art therapist who has met the standards of certification, or to verify a credential, search our database of ATCB credential holders: Provisional Registered Art Therapists (ATR-Provisional), Registered Art Therapists (ATR), Board Certified Art Therapists (ATR-BC), and Art Therapy Certified Supervisors (ATCS).
ATCB Announcements
A Message from the ATCB President (July 30, 2025)
A New Credentialing Year Begins As we begin a new credentialing year, I’m reminded of the ongoing evolution of our profession—and the important role ATCB plays in maintaining the integrity and relevance of art therapy credentials. This year marks my final term as ATCB President, and I’m proud to see several key...
Now Open: The 2025 ATCB Survey
The Art Therapy Credentials Board (ATCB) is committed to upholding the highest standards in credentialing—ensuring that art therapy services provided to the public are delivered by professionals who meet rigorous, ethical, and nationally recognized standards. The 2025 ATCB Survey—now open—is one of the ways we stay...
Improvements Underway: Modernizing ATCB Systems
Over the past few years, stakeholders have shared valuable insights about the challenges of navigating ATCB systems—from confusing communications to issues with application processes, CE tracking, and supervision documentation. In response, ATCB engaged in a comprehensive organizational assessment last year, with support...