Renewing ATR-P
Important Dates for 2025
- April 1, 2025: Renewal and recertification windows open.
- June 30, 2025: Deadline to complete credential renewal and board certification recertification.
- July 1–31, 2025: A 30-day grace period is available, but a $30 late fee applies.
- August 1, 2025: Any credentials not renewed by this date will become inactive.
Annual Renewal of ATR-P Credential
Once you’ve earned your ATR-P designation, it is crucial to renew it annually to maintain this professional credential. Doing so enhances your value to clients or employers and keeps you on track to becoming a Registered Art Therapist (ATR).
Validity and Renewal Period
The ATR-P credential is valid for five years and must be renewed by June 30 each year to remain active. The credential year runs from July 1 to June 30.
Renewal Requirements
To maintain your ATR-P credential, you must:
- Adhere to the ATCB Code governing Standards of Practice, Eligibility for and Regulation of Credentials, and Disciplinary Procedure.
- Complete the annual renewal process, which includes an attestation of compliance with the ATCB ethical code and an annual fee of $25.
Updating Personal Information
Please ensure your email address and other personal information are up to date in your MyATCB portal. The ATCB Headquarters cannot access your portal to update this information.
Renewing the ATR-P Credential
Annual Renewal Notice
You will receive an annual renewal notice in April. Your renewal is due by June 30.
Renewal Process
The renewal process includes:
- Submitting a completed ethics and credential attestation, confirming compliance with the ATCB Code governing Standards of Practice, Eligibility for and Regulation of Credentials, and Disciplinary Procedure.
- Completing renewals through the MyATCB portal. Manual renewals require board authorization, and checks mailed to the ATCB Headquarters will be returned.
Grace Period
By June 30 of each year, all credential holders must complete the annual ethics attestation and pay the annual maintenance fee to maintain their credentials. The ATCB offers a 30-day grace period from July 1 to July 31, during which a late fee applies. After July 31, any credential not renewed becomes inactive.
Reinstating Inactive Credential
For information on reinstating an inactive credential, visit the MyATCB portal.
ATR-P Upgrade Path
If your ATR-P is inactive, you cannot utilize the ATR upgrade application. To pursue an ATR upgrade, you must reinstate your ATR-P credential or apply under the ATR standard application.
Alternative Options if Not Renewing
If you choose not to renew your ATR-P credential, you have the following options:
Retired Status
Apply for Retired Status, available as a Lifetime option for $150 or Annual option for $25. More information is available on the MyATCB portal.
Temporary Inactive Status
Apply for Temporary Inactive Status for a fee of $25. More details can be found on the MyATCB portal.
Relinquishing Credential
You may choose to relinquish your Art Therapist Registration (ATR) by completing an Inactive Request on the MyATCB portal.
Additional Information
For more details, please refer to the step-by-step instructions on completing your annual renewal found on the MyATCB portal.
Next Step: Become Board Certified (ATR-BC)
An ATR-P is the first step for art therapists, allowing them to practice while earning required client hours and supervision to become a Registered Art Therapist (ATR). ATRs can then pursue board certification by passing the ATCB Exam, demonstrating expertise, enhancing career prospects, building trust, and supporting continued professional growth in art therapy.
Self-Reporting Code Violations to ATCB
All applicants and ATCB Credential Holders must report any ethical violations as outlined in the ATCB Code governing Standards of Practice, Eligibility for and Regulation of Credentials, and Disciplinary Procedure within 60 days of occurrence. It is crucial to upload all relevant information regarding the violation at the time of reporting to help ensure a timely review.
Keep Your Contact Information Current
Each April, ATCB Credential Holders are sent an annual renewal notice. You must complete this notice and send it, along with the annual fee, in order to maintain your status as an ATR. Failure to take these steps will result in the loss of the credential. Make sure to keep your information current to ensure you don't miss important notifications.