How to Start an Art Therapy Business: Practical Steps

Start an Art Therapy Business With 101 Practical Tips

Is Starting an Art Therapy Business Right for You?

It is exciting to picture your own studio and a calm space where people feel safe to express what they cannot say in words.

At the same time, it is tough when you realize that running a business is very different from doing clinical or creative work. Before you move forward, it is worth slowing down and looking at the full picture.

Ask yourself if you want the responsibility that comes with being the owner. That means trading a steady paycheck for uncertainty, making decisions when you are tired, and staying with hard problems instead of walking away. It also means your family needs to understand and support what you are doing.

Spend time with two key ideas.

First, think about whether you are moving toward something you care about or simply trying to escape a job or a stressful situation.

Second, look at how passion fits into this decision. Passion does not remove problems, but it gives you energy to solve them.

For help thinking this through, see Points to Consider Before Starting Your Business and How Passion Affects Your Business.

Get an Inside Look Before You Commit

One powerful way to save months of trial and error is to learn from people who already do this work. It is tough when you try to guess what the job is like and only find out after you have spent money and time. You can avoid a lot of frustration by talking to art therapists in other areas who will not see you as direct competition.

Ask them what a typical week looks like, which clients they see, and where the pressure comes from. Ask what they wish they had known before they started. Most professionals are willing to share a realistic view when you are honest about your goals.

To prepare for those conversations and get more from them, review How to find critical information from the right people about the business you are planning to start. Use the questions there to guide your interviews and to decide if this is the right field and role for you.

Understand What an Art Therapy Business Actually Does

An art therapy business provides mental health or wellness services that use art-making in a structured way.

Some owners focus on clinical art therapy, which is psychotherapy delivered by trained and credentialed art therapists. Others focus on non-clinical creative wellness, such as workshops for stress relief and personal growth.

Your first step is to be clear about which services you will offer. That choice affects your education needs, licensing path, insurance requirements, and the type of clients you can serve. It also shapes your revenue and the kind of space you need to set up.

In simple terms, you are creating a place where people can use images, color, and materials to work through thoughts and feelings. Your business exists to make that process safe, structured, and effective for the people who come to you.

Decide on Your Business Model and Scale

An art therapy business is usually a small practice, not a large facility that needs investors and a big staff from day one. Most people start on their own and grow into a small team when demand increases. That makes it possible to launch with a modest setup if you plan carefully.

You still need to decide how you want to operate. You may choose to work solo in a small office, share space with other therapists, or run a hybrid of in-person and online sessions. Some owners add contracts with schools, hospitals, or community centers once they are established.

Think about how much risk and responsibility you want at the start. Decide if you will do everything yourself at first or hire help for tasks such as bookkeeping, website development, or administration. You can always bring in partners or additional therapists later if the business grows.

• Solo private practice in a small studio or office.
• Shared office space with other mental health professionals.
• Hybrid model: in-person sessions plus secure video sessions.
• Contracts with schools, clinics, and community centers for on-site services.
• Corporate wellness workshops as an added revenue stream.

Research Demand and Profit Potential

Before you sign a lease or buy supplies, you want to know if there is enough demand in your area. It is tough when you open a beautiful studio and then discover there are not enough clients to cover your bills. A few hours of focused research can help you avoid that situation.

Start with the problems you plan to address. Look at how common those issues are in your region and which services already exist to support people dealing with them. Pay attention to age groups, languages spoken, and access to mental health care.

Next, think about whether the fees you can realistically charge will cover your costs and allow you to pay yourself. It can help to read about basic supply and demand ideas for small business in articles like Supply and Demand: A Powerful Key for Starting a Business.

• Review local statistics on mental health needs, if available.
• List competing providers: counselors, psychologists, social workers, and other art therapists.
• Look for gaps: groups or neighborhoods that are not fully served.
• Estimate how many paying clients you would need each week to break even.

Define Your Services and Ideal Clients

It is easier to plan your business when you know exactly who you want to help and how you will help them. A general practice can work, but a clear focus often makes your marketing and referrals stronger. You can always broaden later.

Start by choosing a few core services that match your training and interest. Then link each service to a specific type of client. This step keeps your planning realistic and helps you design your space, equipment, and schedule.

Remember, you are not locking yourself in forever. You are setting a starting point so you can launch with clarity instead of confusion.

• Individual art therapy for children, teens, or adults.
• Group sessions for issues such as anxiety, trauma, grief, or social skills.
• Family art therapy for communication and conflict patterns.
• Programs in schools, hospitals, or community centers through contracts.
• Corporate wellness workshops for stress management and emotional health.
• Telehealth art therapy, when permitted under your license and local rules.

Assess Your Skills and Fill the Gaps

You may already have strong clinical skills and a solid art therapy background. Even so, running a business asks for extra abilities. It is tough when you feel confident in the therapy room but lost with budgeting, marketing, or legal details. The good news is you do not need to be good at everything on day one.

Make an honest list of what you do well and where you feel unsure. Some skills you can learn through courses or books. Others you can outsource to professionals such as accountants, attorneys, designers, or virtual assistants.

The key is to make sure each important area is covered by someone who knows what they are doing, whether that is you or someone you pay. You do not have to carry every task yourself.

• Clinical skills: assessment, treatment planning, ethical decision making.
• Art media skills: safe and effective use of a wide range of materials.
• Business skills: budgeting, basic bookkeeping, and cash flow awareness.
• Administrative skills: scheduling, record keeping, and client communication.
• Marketing skills: writing simple content, speaking about your work, networking.
• Legal awareness: understanding licensing rules, privacy requirements, and scope of practice.

Create Your Equipment and Setup Plan

Once you know your services and clients, you can design your physical setup. It is tough when you buy random supplies and then realize they do not fit the type of work you actually do. A written list keeps you focused and helps you budget.

First, think about the room itself. Then list the art materials, safety items, office equipment, and any tools you need for telehealth. The exact brands are less important than having the right types of items ready before you see your first client.

Use the list below as a starting point and adjust it to match your approach and local safety rules.

• Therapy room and furnishings
  • Private room with a door that closes.
  • Comfortable chairs for you and your clients.
  • Tables with washable surfaces for art work.
  • Lockable cabinets for art materials.
  • Lockable filing cabinet for client records.
  • Shelving for supplies and client artwork.
  • Floor covering that is easy to clean.
  • Adjustable lighting and a wall clock.
  • Sound machine to help with privacy.
• Art materials: drawing and painting
  • Drawing paper in different sizes and weights.
  • Sketchbooks for individual clients, if you use them.
  • Graphite pencils, colored pencils, and erasers.
  • Crayons and washable markers.
  • Oil pastels or soft pastels.
  • Watercolor paints, brushes, and palettes.
  • Tempera or acrylic paints suited for indoor use.
  • Water containers and drying racks or areas.
• Art materials: collage and mixed media
  • Colored paper and cardstock.
  • Scissors in adult and child sizes.
  • Glue sticks and liquid glue.
  • Masking tape and clear tape.
  • Magazines and printed images suitable for clients.
  • Stickers, stencils, and stamps when clinically appropriate.
• Art materials: three-dimensional work
  • Air-dry clay or modeling compound.
  • Clay tools without sharp edges for younger clients.
  • Boards or trays for working with clay and drying.
  • Simple objects for building small structures where suitable.
• Protective and cleaning supplies
  • Washable or disposable aprons in different sizes.
  • Table covers that can be wiped or thrown away.
  • Paper towels and cleaning cloths.
  • Non-toxic surface cleaner.
  • Gloves for your use when needed.
  • Trash and recycling containers and bags.
• Office and administrative equipment
  • Computer or laptop for records and communication.
  • Reliable internet connection.
  • Printer and scanner or multi-function device.
  • Telephone or secure voice-over-internet phone service.
  • Lockable file cabinet for paper records.
  • Paper shredder for secure disposal of documents.
  • Basic office supplies such as folders, paper, and pens.
• Telehealth and digital tools
  • Secure telehealth platform suitable for mental health services.
  • Web camera and microphone or headset.
  • Backup device like a tablet or second computer.
  • Electronic record system or secure digital storage for notes.
• Mobile and on-site work
  • Rolling cases or bins for transporting materials.
  • Portable tables if host sites do not supply them.
  • Tabletop or floor easels.
  • Drop cloths or floor covers to protect host locations.

Estimate Your Startup Costs and Funding

With your equipment list in hand, you can start to price each item and understand what it will take to open. It is tough when new owners guess at costs and then face surprise expenses. A simple cost estimate helps you avoid that and makes planning more grounded.

Collect prices for furniture, materials, technology, and any work needed in the space. Add deposits for rent and utilities, as well as professional fees for legal or accounting support. Include a cushion for a few months of operating costs while you build your client base.

For a step-by-step way to think through this, see Estimating Startup Costs. That guide can help you build a basic spreadsheet to keep everything clear.

• List all one-time startup items from your equipment plan.
• List early services such as legal, accounting, and design work.
• Add lease deposits, setup fees, and utility deposits.
• Estimate three to six months of basic expenses as a safety buffer.
• Decide how you will fund the total: savings, partners, or loans.

Choose a Business Name and Brand

Your name is often the first thing people see, so it needs to fit the tone of your work and be easy to remember. It is tough when you fall in love with a name only to find that the domain is taken or another practice uses something similar. A little research up front can prevent confusion later.

Brainstorm names that reflect your approach, location, and clients. Then check domain availability and look for conflicts in your state’s business search tool. Make sure the name feels comfortable for you to say out loud, because you will use it often.

For more help choosing a strong name, review Selecting a Business Name. Once you decide, you can secure your domain and social media handles.

• Check state business records to avoid conflicts.
• Search online to spot similar names in your field.
• Secure a domain that is easy to spell and remember.
• Reserve consistent social usernames where possible.

Decide on a Location

Location is a key choice for an art therapy business. You want a place that clients can reach easily and that feels safe and calm. It is tough when you pick a space that seems charming but does not work for parking, privacy, or zoning.

Think about how people will get to you, where they will park, and how accessible the building is for people with mobility issues. Consider whether you want to share a suite with other health professionals or have a private studio. If you work from home, make sure local rules allow it and that your household is comfortable with clients visiting.

For more ideas, see Choosing a Business Location. That guide can help you weigh visibility, cost, and practical concerns.

• Check zoning and any rules on home-based businesses in your area.
• Look at public transit access and parking options.
• Assess noise, privacy, and overall feel of the building.
• Confirm that the space can support water use and cleanup for art materials.

Handle Legal Structure and Registration

Every business must exist in some legal form. Many art therapy practices start small, so the simplest option is often to operate under your own name as a sole proprietor. As you grow or take on more risk, you may decide to form a Limited Liability Company (LLC) or a corporation.

It is tough when new owners try to read every rule on their own and end up overwhelmed. You do not have to become an expert. You only need to know the basics and then use reliable sources or professional help for the details.

A good place to start is with the state agency that handles business registration, often the Secretary of State. You can also learn more from the Small Business Administration and your own tax advisor. For a general overview, see How to Register a Business.

• Decide whether to begin as a sole proprietor or form an LLC or corporation.
• Check your state’s business registration site for entity options and fees.
• Register a Doing Business As name if you operate under a brand that differs from your legal name.
• Apply for an Employer Identification Number through the Internal Revenue Service if you need one.

Licensing, Compliance, and Insurance

Because art therapy work often involves mental health treatment, licensing and compliance are serious areas. It is tough when you are skilled and well trained but not clear on which license you need or how your state defines art therapy. This is an area where professional advice is especially valuable.

Start by confirming what your state requires for art therapy or related mental health practice. Some states have a specific art therapy license. Others regulate art therapists under licenses such as professional counselor or creative arts therapist. You also need to consider privacy rules if you handle health information.

Insurance is another part of risk management. You can learn more about general business coverage by reviewing Business Insurance, then talk with a qualified insurance broker about policies that fit your practice.

• Check your state’s licensing board to confirm your license path and title rules.
• Review privacy and record keeping laws that apply to your work.
• Ask an insurance professional about professional liability, general liability, and property coverage.
• If you sign a lease, check what insurance the landlord requires.
• Confirm whether you need a local business license from your city or county.
• If you hire staff, learn about payroll, workers’ compensation, and unemployment requirements.

Plan Your Pricing and Revenue Streams

Pricing is more than picking a number that feels right. It is tough when you set your rates too low and then struggle to cover your costs, or too high and limit access. A simple structure that reflects your skills, demand, and expenses will give you a better start.

Begin with your total monthly costs and the income you need. Then decide how many client hours you can realistically handle. This gives you a basic fee range. You can adjust for local norms, your level of experience, and whether you work with insurance or direct pay.

For extra help with this process, see Pricing Your Products and Services. While that article is general, the same logic applies to setting session fees and workshop rates.

• Set standard rates for individual, couple, and group sessions.
• Decide whether you will offer sliding scale spots and how many.
• Set workshop and corporate program fees separately.
• Write clear policies for payment, cancellation, and no-shows.

Write a Simple Business Plan

A business plan does not have to be complex to be useful. It is tough when people think they need a formal document for investors and never write anything at all. A clear plan, even in simple form, keeps you focused and gives you a place to track your ideas and numbers.

Use your plan to pull together the work you have already done: your services, clients, location, equipment, startup costs, pricing, and marketing. You can also outline what you will do if demand is higher or lower than expected.

For structure and guidance, see How to Write a Business Plan. Even if you never share the plan with anyone, it will help you make better choices day by day.

• Describe your services and target clients.
• Summarize your market research and competition.
• List your startup and ongoing costs.
• Outline your pricing, revenue streams, and profit goals.
• Note the key risks and how you plan to handle them.

Set Up Your Physical and Digital Practice

With your plan, equipment, and location chosen, you can set up the actual space. It is tough when you leave this to the last minute and then rush to arrange everything before your first client. A calm, organized environment helps both you and the people you serve.

Focus on flow. Think about where clients enter, where they wait, where you sit, and where art materials live. At the same time, set up your digital systems so you are not juggling paper and scattered files.

Your goal is a simple setup that you can maintain. You can always refine your layout and tools once you see what works in real use.

• Arrange seating and tables for comfort and privacy.
• Organize art materials by type and store them safely.
• Set up your computer, telehealth platform, and record system.
• Prepare secure storage for paper notes, if you keep any.
• Test your internet connection, camera, and audio.

Prepare Your Day-to-Day Systems

Before you open, think through what an ordinary day will look like. It is tough when you are in session all day and then face a pile of undone tasks at night. Simple systems can reduce stress and make your work more sustainable.

Create a basic routine for scheduling, reminder messages, documentation, and billing. Decide how clients will contact you and how quickly you will respond. If you plan to work with organizations, outline how you will handle reports and coordination.

You do not need complex software, but you do need consistent habits. If certain tasks drain you, plan from the start to get help once your income allows it.

• Choose a scheduling tool and set clear office hours.
• Set up email and voicemail greetings with key information.
• Prepare note templates to speed up documentation.
• Decide on billing and payment methods, such as online payments.
• Plan when you will handle administrative work each day.

Build Your Brand, Website, and Basic Marketing

Even the best services need a way for people to find them. It is tough when you open your doors and then wait for calls that never come. Basic branding and marketing give you a steady way to introduce yourself to the right people.

Start with a simple visual identity that feels consistent: logo, colors, and fonts. Then build a clear website that explains who you help, how you work, and how to contact you. Add a few printed materials if they fit your local networking style.

You can learn more about planning your site from A Website Plan That Guides Every Build Step Clearly. For printed materials, see What to Know About Business Cards and Corporate Identity Considerations.

• Create a basic logo and color scheme.
• Build a simple website with clear service and contact pages.
• Print business cards for local networking.
• Consider a modest sign if allowed at your location, using tips from Business Sign Considerations.
• Reach out to local professionals who may refer clients.

Plan How You Will Get Clients

Client flow is one of the biggest worries for new owners. It is tough when you have a well-prepared practice but your schedule is empty. A simple plan for how you will attract and keep clients gives you a clearer path forward.

Think about where your ideal clients already go for help. Those places can become your main referral partners. Schools, clinics, community centers, and doctors can be strong connections, especially when they understand what you do and who you serve.

If you have a walk-in friendly studio or office in a visible location, you can also use local marketing, community events, and possibly a small open house to introduce your services. For ideas on creating foot traffic for a physical space, see How to Get Customers Through the Door and Ideas for Your Grand Opening and adapt the ideas to a professional setting.

• List three to five referral sources you want to build relationships with.
• Prepare a short explanation of your services and ideal clients.
• Decide which online directories you will list your practice on.
• Plan steady, modest outreach instead of one big push.

Day in the Life of an Art Therapy Business Owner

Before you commit, it helps to picture what your days might look like. It is tough when you imagine calm creative sessions and discover that a lot of time goes to paperwork and planning. A realistic view helps you decide if this rhythm fits you.

Each owner will have a different schedule, but many follow a similar flow. The mix of clinical work, art preparation, and administrative tasks can feel busy, but it can also be satisfying when you see steady progress.

Use the example below as a guide, not a rule. As you talk with current art therapists, adjust it to match the path you want.

• Morning
  • Review the schedule and client notes.
  • Set up art materials for the first sessions.
  • See one or two clients and write notes after each session.
• Midday
  • Travel to a school or community center for a group, or run a group in your studio.
  • Eat lunch and respond to calls and emails.
  • Handle billing for recent sessions.
• Afternoon
  • Provide more individual or family sessions, some possibly by secure video.
  • Clean and reset the studio between sessions.
  • Complete daily records and plan materials for the next day.

Pros and Cons to Keep in Mind

Every business choice comes with trade-offs. It is tough when you only focus on the good parts and then feel shocked by the hard parts later. Looking at both sides now can help you decide with open eyes.

On the positive side, you can shape your own schedule, choose your clients, and blend creativity with psychological work. On the challenging side, you carry financial risk and must keep up with legal, ethical, and clinical standards on your own.

Use the list below to start your own pros and cons list based on your situation and values.

• Pros
  • Freedom to focus on the populations and issues you care about most.
  • Ability to blend creative work with clinical practice.
  • Choice of setting: studio, shared office, contracts, or hybrid.
  • Multiple revenue options: sessions, groups, workshops, and programs.
• Cons
  • Income is not guaranteed and may be uneven.
  • Ongoing responsibility for licensing, ethics, and quality of care.
  • Need to handle or oversee business, financial, and legal tasks.
  • Emotional load from client work combined with business stress.

Think About Help, Hiring, and Professional Advisors

You do not have to build this business alone. It is tough when you try to do every task yourself and end up burned out before you open. Instead, decide early where expert help would make the biggest difference.

You might bring in an accountant to set up your books, a lawyer to review your forms and lease, or a designer to build your logo and website. Later, you may decide to add administrative help so you can focus more on client work.

For ideas on building a support team, see Building a Team of Professional Advisors and, when the time is right, How and When to Hire.

• List the tasks you strongly prefer not to do.
• Decide which of those you will learn and which you will outsource.
• Set a budget for professional services in your startup costs.

Common Problems to Avoid Before You Open

Many new owners struggle with the same avoidable problems. It is tough when you realize that a simple check or conversation could have saved you money and stress. Learning from others can protect you from these issues.

Think carefully about your contracts, leases, and major purchases. Make sure you understand what you are signing and what you are responsible for. It can help to read general advice in articles such as Avoid These Mistakes When Starting a Small Business and adapt the ideas to the art therapy field.

Use the list below as a quick early warning system as you move through your planning.

• Signing a lease before checking zoning, licensing, and building rules.
• Buying equipment that does not fit your actual services.
• Ignoring local licensing or professional rules for mental health practice.
• Underestimating startup and early operating costs.
• Skipping written policies for payment and cancellation.

Pre-Launch Checklist

Before you see your first client, it helps to walk through a short checklist. It is tough when you feel ready but then discover missing forms, broken links, or unclear policies at the last second. A simple review gives you a calmer start.

Do not worry if everything is not perfect. Focus on safety, legality, and basic clarity. You can refine the details over time as you gain experience and feedback.

Use the list below to review your progress and see what still needs attention.

• Personal readiness
  • You have decided that business ownership and this field are a good fit for you.
  • You have spoken with at least a few people already working in art therapy.
• Planning and finances
  • You have defined your main services and target clients.
  • You have estimated startup and early operating costs.
  • You have a simple written business plan and budget.
  • You have chosen funding sources and opened a business bank account using guidance like How to Get a Business Loan if needed.
• Legal and compliance
  • You have chosen a legal structure and registered the business if required.
  • You have checked state licensing rules for art therapy or related mental health practice.
  • You have applied for needed licenses and permits.
  • You have obtained key insurance coverage based on professional advice.
• Setup and systems
  • Your space is furnished, safe, and ready for sessions.
  • Art materials and safety supplies are organized.
  • Your website, email, and phone are working.
  • Your scheduling and record systems are tested.
  • Your payment and invoicing methods are set up.
• Marketing and launch
  • You have informed key referral sources that you are accepting clients.
  • Your online profiles and directory listings are up to date.
  • You have a simple plan for steady, ongoing outreach.

101 Tips for Running Your Art Therapy Business

Running an art therapy business is a big step, especially when you are new to both business and private practice.

These tips are designed to give you clear, practical actions so you can feel more confident as you move from idea to daily reality.

Take them one at a time, and remember you can always bring in professional help for areas that fall outside your strengths. You do not have to do everything alone to build something solid and sustainable.

Use this list to plan, prepare, and run your practice in a way that protects your clients, your license, and your own well-being. As you read, note which tips apply right now and which you can schedule for later, so you build at a pace that fits your life and experience.

What to Do Before Starting

1. Clarify whether you will offer clinical art therapy, wellness-focused creative sessions, or a mix, because clinical art therapy is recognized as a mental health profession that blends art-making with psychological theory in a therapeutic relationship.
2. Confirm that your education and supervision plan match current credential standards, which generally expect a graduate degree in art therapy or a related mental health field plus supervised art therapy experience.
3. Check your state’s licensure rules for art therapists or creative arts therapists, because some states require specific art therapy credentials while others recognize related licenses for independent practice.
4. Interview art therapists in other regions about their workdays, caseloads, and earnings so you have a realistic view of how this profession functions outside of school brochures.
5. Take an honest look at your emotional resilience, boundaries, and support system, because art therapy often involves trauma stories and you will need healthy coping strategies to avoid compassion fatigue.
6. Define your primary client groups, such as children, teens, trauma survivors, or medical patients, so you can align your training, supervision, and studio design with their needs.
7. Research local demand by looking at the number of mental health providers, waiting lists, and population needs in your area before you commit to a full-time office.
8. Decide whether you will start as a solo practice, work as an independent contractor to agencies, or combine both approaches to spread risk in your early years.
9. Estimate how many client sessions per week you need to cover both business expenses and your personal living costs so you know whether your plan is financially realistic.
10. Choose whether you will launch part-time alongside another job or step directly into full-time practice, and check how each choice affects benefits, taxes, and scheduling.
11. Meet with an accountant or tax professional to discuss whether starting as a sole proprietor or forming a Limited Liability Company is better for your situation.
12. Identify experienced supervisors, mentors, and peer groups before you open, so you have people ready to support you with complex cases and business questions from day one.

What Successful Art Therapy Business Owners Do

13. Follow professional ethical codes and state rules closely, including requirements for competence, boundaries, and record keeping, because independent art therapists are expected to comply with both laws and their profession’s ethical principles.
14. Protect time for their own therapy, supervision, and reflection so they can process client material safely instead of carrying emotional weight alone.
15. Use regular supervision or consultation even after meeting minimum hours, because complex trauma, risk issues, and countertransference continue throughout a career.
16. Block specific hours for business tasks such as billing, marketing, and administration instead of trying to squeeze them in between sessions.
17. Standardize how they gather background information and set initial goals with new clients so the process feels consistent, safe, and clinically useful.
18. Track simple outcome indicators, such as symptom scales or client-defined goals, so they can adjust treatment plans based on evidence rather than guesswork.
19. Develop a clear niche over time, such as grief, medical trauma, or school-based work, which helps them attract referrals that match their training and interest.
20. Diversify income streams by offering a mix of individual sessions, groups, workshops, and contracts with institutions instead of depending on a single source of referrals.
21. Review their numbers monthly, including income, expenses, and unpaid balances, so they can make small corrections before financial problems grow.

Running the Business (Operations, Staffing, SOPs)

22. Write step-by-step procedures for room setup, cleanup, and closing tasks so you can keep the studio safe and consistent even on busy days.
23. Use a secure electronic or paper record system that protects client information, and follow federal privacy guidance if your practice meets the definition of a covered entity.
24. Schedule time after each session to write notes while the details are fresh, which reduces stress and supports accurate documentation in case of audits or legal questions.
25. Maintain an inventory list of art materials and reorder thresholds so you avoid running out of key supplies for essential interventions.
26. Develop safety procedures for materials, such as using non-toxic products and ensuring ventilation when working with media that can release fumes.
27. If you employ staff, define written job descriptions, performance expectations, and supervision arrangements to stay aligned with labor rules and good practice.
28. Create an annual budget that covers rent, utilities, materials, insurance, professional fees, and continuing education so you can set revenue goals that match real costs.
29. Reconcile scheduled sessions against payments received each week to catch missing claims, declined charges, or sliding-scale errors quickly.
30. Use secure, encrypted backup for electronic records and store paper files in locked cabinets to guard against data loss and unauthorized access.
31. Put supervision time on your calendar in advance, especially if you are under a provisional license or meeting specific board requirements.
32. Use written agreements with schools, hospitals, or community agencies that specify documentation expectations, confidentiality, emergency procedures, and payment terms.
33. Review your procedures for risk situations such as suicidal ideation, abuse disclosures, or medical emergencies and verify they fit state law and ethical guidelines.

What to Know About the Industry (Rules, Seasons, Supply, Risks)

34. Recognize that art therapy is defined as a mental health profession that uses art-making and psychological theory within a therapeutic relationship, which means you are held to mental health standards as well as creative practice standards.
35. Understand that art therapists hold specialized credentials that signal specific education and experience to employers and clients.
36. Be aware that demand for mental health services, including creative approaches such as art therapy, has been growing in the United States, which can create opportunities in clinics, schools, and private practice.
37. Know that salary levels vary widely by setting, region, and credential, with some data grouped under broader therapist categories rather than listing art therapists separately.
38. Expect licensure and title protection rules to differ by state, so you must verify whether your state restricts titles like art therapist or creative arts therapist to certain license holders.
39. Remember that when you provide telehealth, many states treat the service as taking place where the client is located, which usually means you need to be licensed or authorized in that state.
40. Understand that mental health privacy laws give special protection to some psychotherapy notes, so you need to know how these differ from the rest of the record.
41. Accept that art supply costs can shift with global supply and shipping issues, so having alternative products and vendors can prevent treatment disruptions.
42. Plan for emotional risk as well as business risk, because repeated exposure to trauma narratives can lead to vicarious trauma if you do not build in regular support and recovery time.

Marketing (Local, Digital, Offers, Community)

43. Write a clear description of who you help and how art therapy works in your practice so potential clients and referrers understand when to send someone your way.
44. Create a website that lists your services, credentials, location, and contact details in simple language, and include photographs that show what your studio feels like.
45. List your practice on professional directories that serve mental health or creative arts therapists so people searching online can find you by specialty and location.
46. Develop relationships with pediatricians, primary care doctors, school counselors, and community therapists who regularly see clients that could benefit from art therapy.
47. Offer occasional workshops for schools, nonprofits, or community centers to introduce art therapy concepts and show how you work in group settings.
48. Share short, informative pieces about art therapy benefits and case examples with identifying details removed to educate your community about what you do.
49. Ensure that all marketing materials comply with ethical guidelines by avoiding exaggerated claims, unsupported promises, or language that could mislead vulnerable clients.
50. Use consistent colors, fonts, and tone across your website, cards, and documents to create a professional and recognizable presence.
51. Track where each new client heard about you so you can focus your time and money on the channels that actually work.
52. Make scheduling straightforward by offering clear instructions for how to request a first appointment and what information you will need in that first conversation.
53. Participate in local art shows, mental health fairs, or wellness events with simple displays that explain art therapy and invite questions from the public.
54. Refresh your online content and photos regularly so your digital presence accurately represents your current services, populations, and credentials.

Dealing with Customers (Trust, Education, Retention)

55. Explain art therapy in simple terms at the start of each relationship, emphasizing that sessions combine art-making with discussion to support emotional and psychological goals.
56. Use clear, non-technical language when you review consent forms, confidentiality limits, and mandatory reporting duties so clients know what to expect.
57. Describe how telehealth sessions work, including what technology you use, how privacy is protected, and what materials clients may need at home if you meet online.
58. Ask clients to name a few personal goals or changes they hope to see, and revisit those goals regularly to keep therapy focused and collaborative.
59. Invite clients to tell you which art materials feel comfortable or uncomfortable so you can respect sensory needs, trauma histories, or physical limitations.
60. Adjust your pace and level of structure based on each client’s needs while staying within ethical and evidence-based practice guidelines.
61. Provide predictable appointment times, especially for children and school-based clients, to help families build stable routines around therapy.
62. Keep communication boundaries clear by setting expectations for response times and appropriate purposes for texting or emailing between sessions.
63. Schedule periodic check-ins to ask how the client feels about the process and whether any adjustments could make sessions more effective.

Customer Service (Policies, Guarantees, Feedback)

64. Write your payment, cancellation, and rescheduling policies in plain language, and keep them in a place where clients can easily review them before they book.
65. Go over your policies aloud during the first meeting so clients understand how fees, missed sessions, and late arrivals are handled.
66. Use appointment reminders by text, email, or phone only with client permission, and ensure the content of reminders respects privacy rules for mental health information.
67. Respond to concerns or complaints with curiosity and respect, documenting what happened and how you addressed it in case the situation escalates.
68. When administrative mistakes occur, such as double bookings or billing errors, acknowledge them quickly, fix the problem, and review your process to prevent repeat issues.
69. Ask clients near the end of their work with you whether any changes to your process would have made therapy smoother or more accessible.
70. Ensure your waiting area and communication style are welcoming to a wide range of cultures, languages, and identities so clients feel respected from the first contact.
71. Clarify how clients can reach you in urgent situations and when they should instead use emergency services or crisis lines in their area.

Sustainability (Waste, Sourcing, Long-Term)

72. Choose non-toxic, washable materials whenever you can so your studio remains safer for children, pregnant clients, and people with health conditions.
73. Set up labeled bins for reusable scraps and recyclable materials so you can lower waste without compromising hygiene or client safety.
74. Limit or avoid solvents and other strong chemicals in confined spaces, or ensure proper ventilation and storage if you use them for specific techniques.
75. Invest in durable tools like quality brushes and palettes that withstand frequent cleaning, which reduces long-term replacement costs and waste.
76. Maintain relationships with at least two suppliers for key materials so you can pivot quickly if one faces shortages or shipping delays.
77. Use storage systems that protect artwork and materials from moisture, pests, and accidental damage, particularly when you are holding work for therapeutic reasons.
78. Consider natural light and energy-efficient lighting when designing your studio to create a comfortable environment while keeping utility costs reasonable.

Staying Informed (Trends, Sources, Cadence)

79. Follow updates from national art therapy organizations and credentialing boards so you can respond quickly to changes in ethics, education standards, or credential requirements.
80. Check your state licensing board website at least a few times a year for changes to scope of practice, supervision rules, or renewal requirements.
81. Read peer-reviewed research and professional articles on art therapy and mental health so your methods reflect current evidence rather than older training alone.
82. Stay current on telehealth regulations and best practices, since technology and state rules continue to evolve for behavioral health services.
83. Use official labor market resources to understand broader employment trends and potential new practice settings.
84. Set a calendar reminder to review and update your policies, consent forms, and marketing language at least once a year in light of new guidance or laws.
85. Join supervision groups, mentoring programs, or professional communities where art therapists share experience, resources, and current challenges.

Adapting to Change (Seasonality, Shocks, Competition, Tech)

86. Build a small cash reserve in your business account so you can cover rent and essentials during seasonal slow periods, illness, or unexpected cancellations.
87. Adjust scheduling and group offerings around school calendars, holiday seasons, and local events so you maintain engagement during times when clients’ routines shift.
88. Create flexible program formats, such as short series groups or time-limited workshops, so you can respond quickly to emerging needs in your community.
89. Develop a backup plan for moving sessions online during severe weather, transportation disruptions, or public health emergencies, and test the technology in advance.
90. Monitor how new practices and community programs in your area position themselves, and refine your niche rather than competing by simply lowering prices.
91. If regulations change, contact your licensing board or a qualified attorney to understand how the updates affect your practice and documentation.
92. Evaluate new apps, record systems, and communication tools against privacy and security standards before adding them to your workflow.
93. Use feedback from clients, referrers, and outcome data to refine which services you keep, which you adjust, and which you discontinue.

What Not to Do

94. Do not offer services that meet your state’s definition of mental health treatment without holding the appropriate license or being under approved supervision.
95. Do not present art therapy as a guaranteed cure for specific conditions, because research supports its benefits but does not justify absolute promises.
96. Do not store artwork or notes in shared spaces where other people can see client names, images, or sensitive material, especially when mental health privacy laws apply.
97. Do not use hazardous or poorly labeled art materials with children, pregnant clients, or medically fragile clients, and avoid any products that conflict with facility safety rules.
98. Do not take on more clients, groups, or contracts than you can ethically serve, because overextending yourself increases the chance of clinical errors and ethical breaches.
99. Do not treat your practice as a casual hobby for tax purposes; instead, follow federal guidance on small business record keeping, reporting, and estimated payments.
100. Do not skip supervision, peer consultation, or continuing education when you are working with trauma, risk, or complex diagnoses, even if your license technically allows independent practice.
101. Do not hesitate to ask for professional legal, tax, or clinical advice when you face questions that go beyond your training, because early guidance is usually easier and less costly than fixing problems later.

 

Sources:
American Art Therapy Association, Art Therapy Credentials Board, U.S. Small Business Administration, Internal Revenue Service, U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, Telehealth.HHS.gov, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Center for Connected Health Policy, National Association of Secretaries of State, U.S. Department of Labor