Are you considering a career where creativity meets compassion? Art therapy offers a fulfilling path where you can use artistic expression to help individuals overcome personal challenges and improve their mental well-being. But as you may be curious to know, how much does an art therapist make in Australia? There are many factors affecting the salary, earning potential and career opportunities in this growing field of holistic healthcare
What Does an Art Therapist Do?
You might already know a little about the field, but if you’re just starting your research, you might ask, what is an art therapist? Art therapists use creative processes—like painting, drawing, and sculpting—to help clients express emotions, gain self-awareness, and process trauma. These professionals often work with diverse populations, including children, adults, and the elderly.
Common tasks include guiding clients through art projects, interpreting their creative expressions, and developing personalised treatment plans. Art therapists can be found in settings such as hospitals, schools, rehabilitation centres, and private practices. For a deeper dive into the role, check out How to Become an Art Therapist.
Average Salary of an Art Therapist in Australia
Through the most up to date data taken from talent.com, we can see Art therapists in Australia earn an average salary of $83,854 per year or $43 per hour. Entry-level roles start at approximately $73,420 annually, while experienced practitioners can make up to $100,000 per year
Image Source: talent.com
Salaries can also vary by location. For example, looking at the data from the Economic Research Institute, in Victoria, the average art therapist earns $90,821 per year, or around $44 per hour. These higher figures reflect the demand and growth of art therapy in this state.
Factors Affecting an Art Therapist’s Salary
Experience and Specialisations
Entry-level therapists typically earn less, but with years of experience or specialisation in areas like trauma-informed art therapy or working with specific populations (e.g., children, elderly clients), salaries can increase significantly.
Geographic Location
Therapists in urban areas like Melbourne or Sydney often earn more than those in regional locations due to the larger client base and greater demand for services.
Type of Employment
Whether you’re working in a hospital, school, or private practice influences earnings. Private practitioners often have uncapped earning potential, allowing them to set their rates and grow their businesses over time.
Professional Reputation
Building a strong reputation and developing lasting relationships with clients can lead to referrals and higher income over time.
Art Therapist Career Opportunities and Growth
Art therapy offers the flexibility to choose your own career path, whether you’re working in healthcare settings, community centres, or forming your own private practice. As more people seek holistic approaches to mental health, the demand for art therapists is steadily rising as well.
Many graduates from the College of Complementary Medicine (CCM) have gone on to successful careers, both personally and professionally with this rewarding field. If you wish to learn the process it takes to follow this path, you can check out our blog on starting a career in Art Therapy.
So What’s Next?
A career in art therapy is as rewarding as it is creative. Whether you’re helping individuals overcome challenges through art or building a private practice tailored to your passions, this field offers opportunities for personal and professional growth.
If you’re ready to take the first step, consider enrolling in the Advanced Diploma of Transpersonal Therapy (Art Therapy) at the College of Complementary Medicine. With hands-on training and expert guidance, you’ll gain the skills and confidence needed to thrive in this growing profession.
