We have maintained a process-oriented philosophy, i.e., our focus is on the creative development that occurs during therapeutic intervention. While constantly cultivating knowledge of theory, skills and techniques in our students, we stress that therapists must be aware of and use their own feelings in the therapeutic process. This philosophy forms the underpinnings of a program that remains unique in structure, curriculum and setting. Developing one's personal artistry through an intuitive, creative and expressive approach to creative arts therapy is an important theme in the beginning course work. Throughout the program, a wide variety of courses are offered in order to integrate theory, technique and practice.
Students explore group process, as well as individual and family treatment.
All of the creative arts therapies are studied, both as distinct disciplines and in their integration with each other. During the latter part of the program, opportunities are offered for specialization in child, adolescent and adult art therapy course work. Research training and professional writing skills are developed through writing a thesis or extended case study and the possibilities of publication through our annual journal, the Pratt Institute Creative Arts Therapy Review. To fulfill thesis requirements, students are also given the option to develop a creative project which is implemented in the field. All courses present a thorough theoretical framework which is then translated into personal and practical application through an experiential process.