The basic qualification is a post graduate diploma or degree approved by British Association of Art Therapists (BAAT). Such courses are available through different universities and colleges in the UK. You also need registration from Health Professions Council (HPC). To qualify for the postgraduate diploma or degree courses, you need a degree in art. Being an art teacher also helps. Your experience/qualifications in psychology can also be helpful while applying for a PG course in art therapy.

During the diploma/post graduate degree course, you will learn psychology and the theory of art therapy in detail. After registering and starting practicing as an art therapist, you can further your qualifications and experience by taking up the several dozens of workshops and training programs available through universities and practitioners' groups.