About Board Certification
Achieving Board Certification (ATR-BC) represents the highest level of professional distinction in art therapy. This certification signifies a commitment to excellence, demonstrating expertise in the latest advancements in art therapy, and ensuring the highest standard of service to clients and employers.
Why Pursue Board Certification?
Board Certification (ATR-BC) provides:
- The highest distinction in art therapy, recognized internationally.
- Assurance to employers, clients, and the public that you have met rigorous professional standards.
- A portable, nationally accredited certification, recognized by the National Commission on Certifying Agencies (NCCA) and licensing boards in multiple states.
- Ongoing professional development, ensuring that credential holders stay current with the latest scientific, legal, and clinical advancements in the field.
Board Certification is widely recognized across healthcare and education, underscoring its value within major professional settings. The Art Therapy Credentials Board Examination (ATCBE) serves as a valid and reliable assessment tool utilized by several state licensing boards.
Board Certification Requirements
To achieve Board Certification, candidates must:
- Hold an active ATR credential – Only ATRs are eligible to apply.
- Pass the ATCB Examination (ATCBE) – An internationally recognized exam assessing comprehensive knowledge of art therapy theories, interventions, ethics, and clinical skills.
- Maintain ongoing professional standards, including annual renewal of the ATR and completion of 100 continuing education (CE) credits every five years for recertification.
If you are an ATR in good standing, you can apply for Board Certification at any time. No additional coursework is required beyond the ATR designation.
About the Art Therapy Credentials Board Examination (ATCBE)
- The ATCBE is offered year-round through Prometric and is available via remote proctoring (at-home testing) or at testing centers worldwide.
- Candidates have a six-month testing window upon approval and may take the exam up to three times per year.
- The exam fee is $275 (non-refundable and non-transferable), covering application review and administrative costs.
- Score Reporting: Prometric provides unofficial scores immediately upon exam completion, while official scores are processed and uploaded to MyATCB within 7–10 business days.
If you previously passed the ATCBE for state licensure within the past five years (60 months), you may apply for Board Certification using your existing passing score. The application fee for this route is $75. Apply Online Here.
Important: Sharing exam content violates the ATCB Code governing Standards of Practice, Eligibility for and Regulation of Credentials, and Disciplinary Procedure and may result in disciplinary action, including legal consequences.
Earning and maintaining your ATR-BC enhances your professional credibility, ensures continued growth, and strengthens your contributions to the art therapy field.
Become A Credentialed Supervisor (ATCS)
Board-certified art therapists must provide 50% of direct client hours for ATRs and complete six continuing education credits every five years. After one cycle, they meet over half the supervision education needed for the highest credential, ATCS. By continuing supervision and education, ATR-BCs qualify to become Art Therapy Credentialed Supervisors.
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.