The South Carolina Association of Art Therapists (SCAAT) is actively fighting for title recognition in the state. Your support and attention to a state art therapy license is greatly appreciated and vital for the health, safety, and well-being of residents.

Why do Art Therapists Need a License in South Carolina?

• Protect the public by ensuring that those in need of art therapy services receive them from qualified, trained professionals who meet the approved training, educational, and credentialing requirements
• Increase affordable access to mental health services by providing a distinct service and reimbursement code under public and private insurance for licensed art therapists
• Attract and retain qualified art therapy professionals and art therapy students in South Carolina
• Contribute to the economy of the state through expansion of art therapists’ businesses and practices, increased employment, payment of taxes, and state licensure and renewal fees.​

​State Licensure of Professional Art Therapists Will Support the Assessment and Treatment for:

• ​Veterans, active duty military, and their families who are experiencing mental health problems, including PTSD, traumatic brain injury, depression, and increasing rates of suicide
• Individuals seeking recovery from addiction who need alternative ways to identify and overcome the causes and holistic impact of their substance dependence
• The growing numbers of older adults with dementia and depression.
• People of all ages in the healthcare setting who need complimentary therapies to increase quality of life and cope with diagnosis, treatment, and symptoms
• Individuals diagnosed with developmental disabilities (i.e., autism) who need specially trained and qualified therapists.
• Those experiencing trauma from natural disasters, abuse, and/or other mental health problems in the general population