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Reasoning for Legislation

The Problem

Art therapists work with vulnerable populations: individuals who are diagnosed with mental health disorders, medical illnesses, substance abuse, veterans and others exposed to violence and trauma yet there are no criteria under Indiana law to ensure that art therapists are qualified to perform and practice such treatment and assessment.

With increasing awareness of the vast array of benefits offered by art therapy, more consumers prefer that non-threatening approach but cannot access services due to limited availability.

Indiana consumers deserve to access the best help and the assurance that those facilitating art therapy are licensed.

The Solution

The Indiana Art Therapy Association (INDIATA) and many consumer organizations are asking the Indiana General Assembly to consider a bill to amend the Indiana Code concerning professions and occupations which would:

• Provide for the independent licensure for therapists.

• Include art therapists as Medicaid approved mental health providers in the State of Indiana, thereby increasing service to underserved populations.

• Create a clear definition for a licensed art therapist that includes the nationally recognized standards for graduate education, competencies, and hours of supervised practice.

• Title protection, which protects the public and improves mental health outcomes by prohibiting unqualified practitioners from advertising themselves as art therapists.