Registered Art Therapist (ATR) Process

Important Changes to the ATR Application Process

Starting July 1, 2024, at 12:00 AM EST, applicants must be an ATR-P (Provisional Registered Art Therapist) in good standing in order to upgrade to the ATR (Registered Art Therapist) credential. If an application for the ATR is submitted before this date, applicants will not be required to hold an ATR-P. However, all ATR application requirements must be fulfilled by July 1, 2025.

Key Application Information

The upgrade to the Registered Art Therapist (ATR) credential can be submitted through the MyATCB portal. The non-refundable application fee is $65, which covers the administrative costs associated with the review process.

Requirements to Become an ATR

To become a Registered Art Therapist, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Complete a qualifying master’s-level education, including:
  • Core curriculum in art therapy
  • Supervised practicum and internship experiences
• Gain post-education supervised clinical experience
• Submit professional references

Applicants should not use handbooks from previous years. All applications must follow the updated standards and procedures detailed in the portal.
 

Necessary Application Materials

• Verification of Post-Education Experience
• References

Application Process Before July 1, 2024

For applicants submitting their ATR application before July 1, 2024, please note the following:

• If a graduate degree requires an education review, applicants will be notified during the application process.
• If an education review is needed, applicants must complete a Coursework Verification form and provide the name and contact information of an individual who will complete the Verification of Practicum/Internship. The ATCB Headquarters will contact these individuals on behalf of the applicant.

How to Submit Your Application

Applications must be submitted through the MyATCB portal. To get started, applicants should create their MyATCB account. Detailed instructions on how to complete this process can be found on the portal.
 

Disciplinary and Legal History

Applicants must answer all questions in the Disciplinary and Litigation History section truthfully. If you need to respond “yes” to any questions, you must submit copies of relevant charge and follow-up documents, as well as a written account of the events. This information should be uploaded to the MyATCB portal with your application. All applicants agree to adhere to the ATCB Code governing Standards of Practice, Eligibility for and Regulation of Credentials, and Disciplinary Procedures.
 

Tracking Your Application Status

Candidates should regularly check their MyATCB portal for updates on their application status. The portal will display:

• Materials received
• Any missing documents or requirements

Once all materials are submitted, the application will move to “In Review.” Review times typically take 8 to 12 weeks. If approved, applicants will receive an official notification, certificate, and ID card via the MyATCB portal. An email will also be sent to inform candidates of their approval.
 

Verification of Credential Status

After approval, credential holders, employers, and other parties can verify the status of ATCB credentials online using the national registry. Official verification requests can also be submitted through the MyATCB portal. The national registry provides verification of credential status and examination scores.
 

Credential Renewal

The ATCB credential year runs from July 1 to June 30. Once approved, the ATR designation is valid for the remainder of the credential year. Credential holders must renew their credentials annually by completing a formal attestation of compliance with the ATCB Code governing Standards of Practice, Eligibility for and Regulation of Credentials, and Disciplinary Procedures.

Failure to renew a credential will result in it becoming inactive. Learn more about the renewal process and how to maintain your credentials.
 

Contact Information

For any questions related to the application or credentialing process, please contact ATCB.