Are you passionate about using art to help others navigate life's challenges? If you're an art therapist or aspiring to become one in Australia, New Zealand, or the Asia-Pacific region, connecting with the Australian, New Zealand and Asian Creative Arts Therapies Association (ANZACATA) could be a pivotal step in your professional journey.
What is ANZACATA?
ANZACATA is the peak professional body representing creative arts therapists across Australia, New Zealand, and the Asia-Pacific region. Established in 1987, this member-run, self-regulating organisation works tirelessly to uphold the highest standards in art therapy training and practice.
As the field's leading authority, ANZACATA ensures that certified art therapists receive proper recognition while maintaining strict professional standards that protect both practitioners and clients.
Why creative arts therapy matters
There's growing evidence supporting the effectiveness of art therapy in addressing various emotional and mental health conditions. People struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, and stress often experience significant positive changes through creative therapeutic approaches.
Art therapy provides a unique pathway for expression when words alone aren't enough—allowing clients to process complex emotions through creative mediums. As awareness of these benefits increases, so does the demand for qualified art therapists across Australia and beyond.
Membership tiers and requirements
ANZACATA offers several membership categories to accommodate professionals at different stages of their careers:
Professional membership
- Requires a Master's degree or Professional Doctorate in Art/Arts Therapy from ANZACATA-approved institutions
- Qualification must include 750 hours of supervised clinical practice
- Members can use the prestigious "AThR" post-nominal
- Listed in the public "Find a Therapist" directory
- Eligible for full voting rights
Provisional membership
- For graduates of art therapy programs at Masters level not previously approved by ANZACATA
- For students who've nearly completed an approved program but have outstanding requirements
- Maximum duration of two years before transitioning to Professional membership
- Cannot use ANZACATA logo or post-nominal
Tier membership
- For graduates of creative arts therapy programs recognised at Qualifications Authority Level 6-8
- Suitable for those with diploma or bachelor-level qualifications in creative arts therapy
- Cannot use ANZACATA logo or post-nominal
Student membership
- For those currently enrolled in ANZACATA-recognised creative arts therapy courses
- Requires evidence of current enrolment
- Free membership for students during their studies
Currency Requirements ANZACATA places strong emphasis on maintaining up-to-date knowledge and skills. Depending on when your qualification was awarded and your recent practice history, different requirements apply to ensure your clinical competency remains current.
Benefits of ANZACATA membership
Joining ANZACATA offers numerous advantages that can significantly enhance your professional practice:
Professional recognition and growth
- Enhanced Credibility: Use of the AThR post-nominal (Professional members) signals your professional standing
- Client Access: Listing in the "Find a Therapist" directory connects you with potential clients
- Funding Scheme Eligibility: Professional members can register to provide services under schemes like NDIS and ACC
- Practice Resources: Access to templates, checklists, and promotional materials
Continuing professional development
- Discounted CPD Opportunities: Regular workshops and training at member rates
- Supervision Support: Access to approved supervisors and discounted supervision options
- Free Journal Access: Complimentary access to the peer-reviewed Journal of ANZACATA (JoCAT)
- Monthly E-news: Stay current with industry developments and opportunities
Professional protection
- Insurance Options: Competitive professional indemnity insurance through Focus Insurance Brokers
- Ethical Support: Guidance through ANZACATA's Code of Ethics and standards
- Complaints Procedure: Structured processes for handling professional concerns
Community connection
- Networking: Connect with peers through local events and ANZACATA's private Facebook group
- Conference Opportunities: Discounted access to ANZACATA conferences and symposia
- Local Groups: Participate in regional activities and professional exchanges
How to join anzacata
The application process is straightforward but varies depending on your qualifications and professional status:
- Review membership categories to determine which level applies to your qualifications
- Gather required documentation, including academic transcripts, clinical supervision evidence, and CPD records if applicable
- Complete the online application through the ANZACATA website
- Pay the application fee ($90 AUD + GST for Australian applicants) for processing professional, provisional, or tier applications
- Await application review by the ANZACATA Board
- Pay annual membership fee once your application is approved
For Professional, Provisional, and Tier memberships, a $90 AUD (plus GST for Australian residents) non-refundable processing fee applies. This covers the administrative cost of evaluating your qualifications. Students graduating from ANZACATA-approved Master's courses are exempt from this application fee when applying for Professional membership.
Annual membership fees for the 2024-2025 period start from $243.75 for Professional members, with options to include professional indemnity insurance for a nominal additional fee.
Maintaining your membership
To ensure the highest standards of practice, ANZACATA requires practising members to:
- Engage in continuing professional development (CPD)
- Maintain regular clinical supervision (1 hour per 15 client hours)
- Practise a minimum of 150 hours annually (or 450 hours over three years)
- Comply with ANZACATA's Code of Ethics and Standards
These requirements help ensure all ANZACATA members maintain their capacity to practise safely, ethically, and effectively.
Supporting the future of art therapy
ANZACATA actively advocates for the profession, working to increase awareness of art therapy's benefits and securing recognition of art therapists' professional rights. The organisation has celebrated significant milestones, including the granting of an Australian government wage award in 2007 and inclusion in the Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations.
By joining ANZACATA, you're not just advancing your career—you're contributing to the growth and recognition of art therapy as a vital healthcare profession in Australia and beyond.
Ready to take your art therapy practice to the next level? Visit the ANZACATA website to explore membership options and begin your application journey.
Note: Membership requirements and benefits may change over time. For the most current information, please refer to the official ANZACATA website.
