Skip to main content

REHABILITATION SERVICES

Creative Arts Therapy Practicum Opportunities

NewYork-Presbyterian/Columbia University Irving Medical offers two five-month practicum programs for aspiring licensed creative arts therapists (LCATs)—one focused on music therapy and one for art therapy.

Our programs are designed to introduce students to the profession of music or art therapy through education, observation, and first-hand experiences. Under the guidance of an LCAT mentor, students will gain a deeper understanding of how evidence-based art therapies are provided in a healthcare setting.

We look forward to helping you build a rewarding career in creative arts therapy! Learn more about our programs and application requirements below.

Program details

Our creative arts therapy practicums last approximately five months, running from January to May of each year. If accepted to a program, you should expect to obtain approximately 150 hours during the practicum semester.

Both programs meet professional standards and requirements—the music therapy program is approved by the American Music Therapy Association (AMTA), and our art therapy program is approved by the American Art Therapy Association (AATA)—and will help prepare you for an internship and professional work.

 

Practicum activities:

  • Observe in-patient bedside services throughout hospital
  • Review literature of relevant research
  • Gain understanding and become familiar with using electronic medical records (EMR) such as Epic
  • Document session notes using common medical terminology; develop context-appropriate clinical language and professional insight
  • Commit to weekly supervision from an LCAT to support professional growth and development
  • Attend interdisciplinary rounds and learn to identify opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration
  • Music therapy only - participate in a clinical guitar skills workshop to promote thoughtful applications of techniques and develop clinical repertoire.

 

Objectives and responsibilities:

  • Deepen your understanding of the music or art therapy profession and implementation of services to adults in acute medical healthcare facilities
  • Develop communication skills with patients, families, and other healthcare professionals
  • Recognize common goals and interventions used in an acute adult inpatient setting
  • Gain basic knowledge and understanding of medical terminology, diagnoses, and procedures
  • Evaluate own strengths and performance; set goals for learning

How to apply

Eligibility: Applicants must be currently enrolled in an accredited program approved by the AMTA or AATA

Instructions: Applicants should email a resume and cover letter to [email protected]

Dates to know: The application period begins September 1 of each year and closes on the second Friday in November.

Application process:

After all applications are reviewed, selected applicants will be chosen for an interview in person or via video. During the interview process, applicants should be prepared to share any relevant experience and their interests in the program.

  • For music therapy applicants: Please prepare three pieces of music of contrasting styles using piano or guitar accompaniment. At least one of these pieces should include the voice. If desired, one piece can be shared on your primary/preferred instrument, if different from piano or guitar.
  • For art therapy applicants: Please prepare three pieces of art of contrasting styles using a variety of mediums. At least one of these pieces should be connected to, if not an example of, an art therapy directive.

Questions? Contact Us

If you have any questions about our program or application process, please contact our team via email at [email protected]