We are actively working to bring the new MyATCB system online as quickly as possible while ensuring it is implemented carefully and correctly. Our priority is to deliver a system that is stable, secure, and reliable from day one.

That said, the recent back-to-back winter storms have created some unavoidable challenges, including intermittent power outages, which have impacted the pace of this work. While these conditions have caused some delays, our team remains fully engaged and continues to make progress as conditions allow.

We appreciate your patience as we balance speed with diligence. We will continue to keep you informed and will share updates as we reach key milestones.

ATCB is preparing to introduce a modernized MyATCB credentialing management system as part of our 2025–2028 Strategic Plan. This transition reflects our continued commitment to protecting the public through clear, reliable, and consistently applied credentialing standards.

In recent years, ATCB has undertaken a comprehensive review of its credentialing processes and supporting technology. Through system assessments, technical evaluations, and routine stakeholder interactions, we identified several opportunities to strengthen the clarity, usability, and long-term stability of the tools that support credentialing. These insights confirmed the need for a system that is more intuitive, efficient, and adaptable to the evolving practice of art therapy.

The forthcoming MyATCB system is designed to meet those needs. It will enhance the accuracy of credentialing workflows, improve transparency in required documentation, and provide a more dependable user experience for individuals and institutions engaging with ATCB.

Why the New System?

Over the past year, ATCB conducted a detailed evaluation of its credentialing technology and related processes. This work included organizational assessments, technical reviews, and analysis of recurring questions and challenges presented through routine interactions with applicants, credential holders, supervisors, and institutions. The findings reinforced the need for a credentialing system that is more precise, efficient, and sustainable for long-term regulatory use.

Several priorities emerged as central to this modernization effort:

• Improving the clarity and structure of application and renewal workflows
• Strengthening support for documentation required across credential types
• Enhancing CE tracking and supervision record management
• Expanding system flexibility to align with evolving standards and emerging professional needs

The updated MyATCB system is being designed to address these requirements directly. Its purpose is to provide a more reliable, accessible, and transparent platform that supports ATCB’s credentialing functions and ensures consistent application of standards across all pathways.

Important Dates and Access Changes

The transition to the new MyATCB system will require several temporary access changes. The following dates are essential for anyone preparing an application, renewal, supervision submission, or CE documentation before the new system launches.

Now – December 31, 2025: Final Day to Apply Under 2025 Standards

Applicants who wish to be evaluated under the 2025 standards must submit their complete applications by December 31, 2025. This applies to:

• Provisional Registered Art Therapist (ATR-P) applicants seeking review under the 2025 standards
• Registered Art Therapist (ATR) applicants submitting an ATR upgrade under the 2025 standards

Applications must be submitted—not approved—by December 31 to qualify for review under the 2025 standards.

December 19, 2025 – January 5, 2026: ATCB Office Closed

ATCB will close at 5:00 p.m. ET on December 19 and will reopen on January 5, 2026. During this period, staff will not be responding to emails or contact form submissions except in critical circumstances.

Those with questions about application status or credential requirements are encouraged to contact ATCB no later than December 15 to ensure adequate time for assistance before the office closure.

Office Closure FAQs

January 1 – Mid-January 2026: Full MyATCB System Outage

Beginning January 1, the current MyATCB system will be fully offline as we complete the transition to the new platform.
During this period:

• Users will not be able to log in or access any part of the system
• No applications, renewals, CE entries, or supervision updates can be submitted
• Previously uploaded records will be inaccessible until the new system is launched

ATCB will share updates as the launch approaches.

We strongly recommend that credential holders check their email regularly and ensure a personal email address is listed as their primary contact, as institutional or workplace addresses may change.

Guidance for BC Recertification

As ATCB transitions to the new MyATCB system, all existing credential data will be migrated to the updated platform. While this process is designed to be as accurate and seamless as possible, any system transition carries the possibility of minor discrepancies.

To ensure uninterrupted documentation and renewal processing, Board Certified Registered Art Therapist (ATR-BC) credential holders renewing in the current cycle are strongly encouraged to maintain their own complete records during this period. This includes:

• Retaining copies of all CE certificates and supporting documentation
• Keeping a personal record of CE totals and completion dates
• Saving PDF or screenshot confirmations of any entries or submissions made prior to December 31

Maintaining personal copies helps ensure that any data irregularities can be quickly verified and resolved once the new system is active. These steps support a smooth transition and protect the integrity of your renewal documentation.

2026 Standards Reminder

The 2026 Standards will take effect on January 1, 2026. These updates apply to a limited set of credential pathways and ensure continued alignment with current professional and regulatory expectations.

The 2026 Standards affect the following individuals:

• ATR-P applicants whose academic transcripts are more than 10 years old
• ATR applicants who intend to submit supervision hours in increments of fewer than 10 hours

All other credential requirements and pathways will remain unchanged for 2026.

The full 2026 standards were posted at beginning of the current credentialing year.

2026 Registration Standards for ATR-P
2026 Registration Standards for ATR

ATCB’s transition to a modernized credentialing management system represents a significant advancement in supporting clear, consistent, and reliable credentialing processes across the profession. These improvements reflect ATCB’s dedication to public protection, ethical practice, and the long-term integrity of art therapy credentialing.

We appreciate the professionalism and preparation of all individuals engaging with ATCB during this transition period. Your attention to key dates and documentation will help ensure a smooth migration to the new platform. ATCB will continue to provide timely updates and guidance as the launch approaches.

Thank you for your continued commitment to safe and competent art therapy practice.

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 initiatives advancing that will help shape the future of credentialing for the years ahead.

Our 2025 ATCB Survey is now open. While ATCB is not a membership organization, this annual effort helps us better understand how credentialing intersects with professional realities in the field. I encourage all credential holders to complete the survey.

We’re also making meaningful progress on the modernization of our systems. An updated version of MyATCB is in development and scheduled for release in 2026. These system improvements will streamline CE tracking, supervision documentation, and the renewal and recertification processes—while reinforcing our long-standing commitment to clarity, efficiency, and security.

This credentialing year brings exciting developments—including the launch of ATCB’s Continuing Education Provider Program, enhanced exam preparation opportunities, and expanded leadership and SME service roles. I invite you to explore the updates outlined below and consider how you might engage in the work ahead.

Finally, the 30-day grace period for renewal, recertification, and reinstatement is coming to a close. If your credential was not renewed by the June 30 deadline, you have until July 30 to take action before your status becomes Inactive. Also, updated recertification and registration standards take effect this credential year—if you have not reviewed these changes already, please take a moment to familiarize yourself with the new requirements.

Wishing you a successful and fulfilling credential year,

Cheryl Doby Copeland, PhD, ATR-BC, LPAT, LPC, LMFT
President
Art Therapy Credentials Board

Coming this Credential Year

Continuing Education Provider Program Launch

ATCB will soon launch a new approval program for CE providers and activities, designed to ensure continuing education aligns with credentialing standards. The program includes a two-step approval process and a two-year cycle.

More on the CE Provider Program ›

ATCB Official Exam Preparation Opportunities

The Art Therapy Credentials Board (ATCB) is committed to supporting candidates in their journey toward board certification. We are excited to share that new exam preparation opportunities will be launching in 2026!

While we aren’t ready to share all the details just yet, as we are in the final development stages—you can expect resources designed to help you feel more confident and prepared for the ATCB Examination.

Stay tuned! We will be sharing more information in the coming months, including timelines and how you can participate.

To make sure you don’t miss any updates, please ensure your contact information is current in your MyATCB account.

System Updates: MyATCB Improvements Are Underway

ATCB is in the process of modernizing systems to better serve the needs of credential holders. Guided by stakeholder insights and an external assessment, enhancements are being made to MyATCB to streamline CE tracking, supervision documentation, renewal, and more.

An updated MyATCB system is expected to launch in early 2026, and we’ll be sharing updates, tutorials, and transition tools along the way.

The 2025 ATCB Survey Is Now Open

As part of ATCB’s commitment to maintaining relevant and effective credentialing standards, the 2025 ATCB Survey is now open. This survey gathers information on professional trends related to credential advancement, supervision, access, and the role of certification in the evolving field of art therapy.

The survey is open for a limited time. Credential holders at every stage of their professional journey are encouraged to complete it.

Take the Survey

Call for Leaders and Subject Matter Experts

ATCB is currently seeking qualified credential holders to serve in key leadership and subject matter expert (SME) roles. These volunteer opportunities support critical areas of our regulatory work and uphold the integrity of ATCB credentials.

Opportunities are available in the following areas:

• Board of Directors
• Advisory Board
• Board of Appeals
• Taskforce: Supervision and Credentialing
• Continuing Education Program Review Panel
• Subject Matter Experts for Exam Development

Some roles require Board Certified Registered Art Therapist (ATR-BC) status, while others are open to Registered Art Therapists (ATR) and Provisional Registered Art Therapists (ATR-P). Service with any of these roles may count toward CE requirements for board certification.

To learn more about eligibility and submit your interest, visit the links below:

Volunteer with ATCB ›
Submit Interest Form ›

Reminders

Final Days: Grace Period Ends July 30

The 30-day grace period for renewal, recertification, and reinstatement is coming to a close. If your credential was not renewed by the June 30 deadline, you have until July 30 to take action before your status becomes Inactive.

A late fee applies during the grace period. Once inactive, the use of designations such as ATR-P, ATR, ATR-BC, or ATCS is not permitted. Board certification (ATR-BC) will also be forfeited if the ATR credential becomes inactive.

Log in to MyATCB to complete any outstanding requirements before the deadline.

Questions? Contact LeeAnn Mandrillo, Executive Director at leeann@atcb.org, or submit an inquiry through the ATCB Contact Form ›

Inactive Status Reminders

Credential holders who did not complete renewal, recertification, or reinstatement by June 30 are currently within the 30-day grace period, which ends July 30. After this date, eligible credentials (ATR-P, ATR, ATCS) will move to Inactive Status.

While in Inactive or Temporary Inactive Status, use of the ATR-P, ATR, ATR-BC, or Art Therapy Credentialed Supervisor (ATCS) designation is not permitted in any professional context. This includes email signatures, social media, directories, and business communications.

Importantly, ATR-BCs whose ATR becomes inactive will lose their Board Certified distinction.

Learn more about credential status policies and options for returning to active standing:
Understanding Inactive Status ›

2026 Recertification and Registration Standards Now Available

The updated 2026 Recertification Standards are now available for ATR-BCs whose current certification period ends on or after June 30, 2026. These include a requirement of 50 CEs in art therapy-specific content, along with ethics and supervision requirements.

If you’re unsure which standards apply to your certification cycle or why the art therapy-specific requirement is in place, please review our
Clarification on Recertification Standards Update.

We’ve also published revised Registration Standards for both the
ATR-P and
ATR credentials. These updates provide important guidance for new applicants and supervisors.

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 from an external consultancy specializing in strategy and user experience for nonprofits. The insight provided—through surveys, conversations, and direct feedback—played a pivotal role in helping us identify areas that need improvement.

We’re now taking meaningful steps to enhance our systems, including the ATCB credentialing management system, MyATCB. We’re implementing changes that will streamline tracking continuing education, documenting supervision, renewing credentials, managing board certification, and more. Our goal is to ensure that the system works efficiently and can evolve to meet the growing practice of art therapy—supporting, not hindering, art therapists’ professional journey.

While no system is without its challenges, we’re committed to rolling out improvements thoughtfully and transparently. An updated MyATCB is on the horizon, with an anticipated launch in early 2026.

Leading up to that launch, we’ll provide regular updates, helpful tutorials, and opportunities to become familiar with what’s coming—well in advance of the next credential year starting on July 1, 2026.

Throughout this transition, the security and confidentiality of all stakeholder information will remain a top priority.