Maintaining ATCS Credential: Requirements & Renewal Process
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.
Earning your ATCS (Art Therapy Certified Supervisor) designation is a significant professional achievement. Keeping it current ensures you maintain this valuable credential, reinforcing your credibility with clients and employers.
How to Maintain Your ATCS Credential
To keep your ATCS credential active, you must fulfill the following requirements:
- Adhere to Ethical Standards: Follow the Code governing Standards of Practice, Eligibility for and Regulation of Credentials, and Disciplinary Procedure.
- Complete the Annual Renewal Process: Your ATCS credential must be renewed each year. The credential year runs from July 1 – June 30. Renewal requires:
- Completing the mandatory attestation of compliance with the ATCB ethical code.
- Paying the annual renewal fee of $25. Learn more about the renewal process here.
- Maintain Your ATR-BC Certification: Your ATR with Board Certification (ATR-BC) must be active and in good standing.
- Keep Your Contact Information Updated: Ensure your email address and personal details are current in your MyATCB portal. The ATCB Headquarters cannot update this information for you. If you need assistance accessing your portal, contact the ATCB Headquarters.
Note: The recertification of your ATR-BC includes six (6) continuing education (CE) credits in supervision. Any prior supervision CE requirements for ATCS are part of the ATR-BC recertification process.
Annual Renewal & Deadlines
- Renewal notifications are sent in April each year.
- Your renewal must be completed by June 30 to avoid a late fee.
- Failure to renew will result in your credential becoming inactive.
- If inactive, you cannot use the ATCS designation and must apply for reinstatement.
Options If You Do Not Plan to Renew
If you decide not to renew your ATCS credential, you have two options:
- Apply for Temporary Inactive Status: This status allows you to pause your credential for a $25 fee.
- Relinquish Your ATCS: To officially relinquish your Art Therapist Credentialed Supervisor , submit a statement of relinquishment to ATCB via Contact Us.
Keeping your ATCS credential active is crucial for professional recognition and compliance. Be sure to follow these steps to maintain your credential seamlessly.
Become a Subject Matter Expert (SME)
Supervision in art therapy is essential for maintaining ethical, safe, and effective practices that promote professional growth and enhance client outcomes. A subject matter expert (SME) in supervision provides art therapists with guidance, training, and support. The ATCB evaluates supervision needs and seeks SMEs to serve on its Supervision Advisory Committee.
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.