ATR-P Application Process
Important Notices
- Post-education experience hours may only begin to count toward the ATR credential once the ATR-P application has been completed and submitted.
- Applicants must use the current application standards and procedures; do not refer to outdated handbooks.
- All ATR-P applicants must provide the name and email of their Supervisor, who must be an active ATR or ATR-BC in good standing. The ATCB Headquarters will contact these individuals on the applicant’s behalf.
Application Fee
The application fee for the Provisional Registered Art Therapist (ATR-P) is $60, which is non-refundable and non-transferable. This fee covers application review costs. Candidates must submit their applications through the MyATCB portal.
Application Process
The application review process for the ATR-P varies based on the education program attended. If an applicant did not graduate from a CAAHEP-accredited program or is a graduate of an international program, please refer to the requirements outlined Non-CAAHEP and International Applicants Section.
For Applicants from CAAHEP Accredited or AATA Approved Programs, the following items are required
- an official transcript submitted to the ATCB from an academic institution.
- Supervisor agreement form. This form is emailed directly to the supervisor identified in the application process. The supervisor completes and returns to the ATCB.
Applicants are required to provide truthful responses to all inquiries in the Disciplinary and Litigation History section of the ATR-P application. If an applicant has any current or past disciplinary or legal events necessitating a “yes” response, they must include copies of the pertinent documents and a written account of the event(s). This documentation should be uploaded through the MyATCB application portal.
Application Review Process
Once all supporting documents are received, the application will move to “In Review,” which typically takes 8-12 weeks. Applicants will be notified when the review is complete and should check their MyATCB portal for status updates. Incomplete applications will require further reviews, extending the review time. Applicants can check the status of their application review process on their MyATCB portal.
Once approved, applicants become ATCB credential holders and may use the ATR-P professional designation for the remainder of the approved credential year. The ATR-P credential is valid for five years and must be renewed annually.
Contact Information
If you have any questions about the application or credentialing process, please use the contact form and select ATR-P in the drop-down.
Next Step: Become Board Certified Registered Art Therapist (ATR-BC)
An Provisional Registered Art Therapist (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.