Posted on February 24, 2017
Photo: Ellie Nichol, Registered, Certified Art Therapist, State Representative Mitch Bolinsky, Mary Hamilton, President of CT Art Therapy Association, and Kate Fergus, Advocate
Hartford – State Representative Mitch Bolinsky (R-106) testified in support of House Bill 6252; An Act Requiring the Licensure of Art Therapists before the legislature’s Public Health Committee on Wednesday February 22, 2017.
This proposed legislation, introduced by Rep. Bolinsky, has attracted bi-partisan support from around the state and seeks to make it possible for Licensed Creative Art Therapists (LCATs), like constituent Alison Trainor-Cello, a Newtown therapist who must practice in New York State, to apply this creative mental health discipline in their home state. When contacted by Cello, Bolinsky learned that LCATs, recognized and licensed in many states, including New York, are not yet recognized by the State of Connecticut, despite the distinct, complimentary, proven results of their treatments.
“Despite achieving association credentials, a Masters-level degree and maintaining continuing education credits to remain current in their profession, there is no formal licensing option in Connecticut,” explained Bolinsky. Art Therapy is a complimentary mental health discipline that is particularly effective in drawing-out deep, complex issues, layer-by-layer. Using appropriate media, creative and therapeutic process, resulting artwork can open the door to feelings, reconcile emotional conflict, foster self-awareness, manage behavior and addictions, develop social skills, reduce anxiety, increase self-esteem and improve reality orientation.”
Bolinsky went on to emphasize that Art Therapists are usually also practitioners of other therapy disciplines and work closely with psychologists, psychiatrists and other clinicians to provide expedited, high-quality continuity of care.
The Public Health Committee will now consider Rep. Bolinsky’s testimony, along with others, prior to taking further action on the bill. The committee must move the bill forward to the House Floor by March 29th.
###