Create healing through the arts.
You’re passionate about the arts and want to use that passion to help others. Discover how you can guide people through the creative process to find solutions to mental and psychological problems.
Blend the study of psychology with music, visual arts, dance, drama, and creative writing. Learn how to engage people in the arts and channel their self-expression toward improved patterns of thought and behavior. And, with our reimagined general education curriculum, you'll be prepared to solve 21st-century problems facing humankind. You'll blaze a trail as you grow into a career as a mental health counselor, hospital art therapist, grief counselor, mindfulness coach for stress management, and many more possibilities.
Lesley University is a pioneer in expressive arts therapy education. Guided by internationally recognized practitioners, you’ll develop a solid foundation in human development, research, and therapy techniques while continuing to explore your identity as an artist or performer.
Your courses will examine artistic expression through a cultural, historical, and global lens. And you’ll have access to the College of Art and Design studio courses and to our Lunder Arts Center.
You’ll put your learning into action during internships in a range of settings, including community arts centers, schools, shelters, and rehabilitation centers. With hands-on guidance and support from our expert faculty and mentoring clinicians in the field, you’ll gain experience and grow your skills at places such as the The Children's Room, Perkins School for the Blind, Girls LEAP, Boston Youth Sanctuary, and more.
You can also apply for our dual-degree program to earn your bachelor’s and master’s degrees.