March 24, 2025 | By The AATA National Staff
Many art therapists consider supervision as an integral part of their journey through the profession. It shapes the very core of their identities as art therapists. As we look forward to our 2025 Supervision Series, which will explore the developmental journey of art therapists from student to supervisor, we have invited our presenters to tell us more about their own supervision journeys.
This series is FREE for AATA Student Members and offered at a discount for AATA Members. Each session is hosted live with interactive discussions and is also available On Demand to watch at your convenience. Plus, sign up for all three sessions in both series and save up to $54 on your ATCB required Ethics and Supervision CE credits!
Why are clinical supervision and discussions about the topic such a crucial part of an art therapist’s professional journey?
“Clinical supervision is one of the key factors for the success of the developing art therapist or psychotherapist. This kind of meaningful work requires a lot of intentional self-care. Most art therapists have not been exposed to the rich literature related to supervision, a distinct and unique practice, which is why discussions about it are so important.”
— Annette Vaccaro, EdD, LPAT, LCSW, SCPsyA, LPC, ATR-BC, ACS, ATCS
“As I have transitioned into art therapy education the past six years, I have a better understanding of how lifespan development has informed my pedagogy. This has become more salient as I work with students who range from early adulthood to middle age. I see much of myself being reflected back—the desire to know more about the profession and the constant need for reassurance. That is why positive experiences in clinical supervision that encourage vulnerability are so important., Both the supervisee and the supervisor have something to learn as the relationship matures, competence increases, confidence develops, and feelings of connection happen.”
— Dan Summer Ph.D., LAC, ATR-BC, LCAT, LPAT, ATCS
“Supervision has been such an important part of my journey—supporting students, new professionals, and those stepping into supervisory roles has taught me just how much we all continue to grow throughout our careers. Just like supervisees benefit from strong guidance, supervisors also need space to reflect, learn, and feel supported as they navigate this stage of their professional development.”
— Traci Bitondo, PhD, LPC, LPAT, ATR-BC, ACS, ATCS
“Supervision is not only essential during training but also throughout a clinician’s career. When interns have a positive experience in supervision, they are more likely to continue seeking guidance as professionals, which helps them avoid isolation and continue growing in their practice. Watching new clinicians gain confidence and skill is deeply rewarding, and I am committed to shaping compassionate, competent professionals who will make a meaningful impact in the field.”
— Cindy Concannon, LPAT, LPC, ATR-BC, NCC
How do supervision needs change over the course of an art therapist’s career?
“Supervision isn’t just about providing oversight—it’s about ongoing growth, connection, and learning how to best support those we work with. I think this conversation is so relevant right now as we look at how to create strong, intentional supervision relationships that evolve with us at every stage.
We often forget, supervisors also need supervision. Just as therapists rely on supervision for insight and professional growth, those stepping into supervisory roles need their own support networks. Understanding the professional development of the supervisor is critical, which is why I’m excited to be part of this conversation on supervision of supervision. “
— Traci Bitondo, PhD, LPC, LPAT, ATR-BC, ACS, ATCS
“For myself, as a middle-aged man on a mid-career trajectory, I am able to reflect more on my moments as a clinician where I moved from not knowing to knowing. Confidence and competence take time to develop, and supervision is a space where those transitions can be explored and supported. I’m hoping during our conversations to share how my clinical journey and my journey in supervision have informed my role as an educator and supervisor.”
— Dan Summer Ph.D., LAC, ATR-BC, LCAT, LPAT, ATCS
“What does a new professional face that is unique, and what do we need from supervision after years of practice? What is the roadmap to follow? The developmental journey of the art therapist is not a linear one, and supervision plays a key role in shaping how we navigate challenges, refine our skills, and develop a deeper sense of professional identity. This series is meant to introduce the participants to the knowledge, skills, and relationship-building central to the supervisory relationship in the context of professional development.”
— Annette Vaccaro, EdD, LPAT, LCSW, SCPsyA, LPC, ATR-BC, ACS, ATCS
Why is it important to reflect on our own developmental journey as art therapists?
“I’ve had the pleasure of growing an art therapy community locally for over 25 years. Lately, I’ve taken the time to examine what we have done and how we got here. This reflection is what has spurred my recent research into the developmental journey of the art therapist. Reflecting on our journey and the growth we’ve experienced has led me to grow professionally myself as I explore a deeper question: What does the developmental journey of an art therapist truly look like?”
— Annette Vaccaro, EdD, LPAT, LCSW, SCPsyA, LPC, ATR-BC, ACS, ATCS
“As I reflect on my 25 years of practice, I see how my own experiences have shaped my understanding of supervision and professional growth. Reflecting on tThe transition from clinician to educator has given me a new perspective on how we learn, how we develop confidence, and how we support one another at different stages of our careers.”
— Dan Summer Ph.D., LAC, ATR-BC, LCAT, LPAT, ATCS
About the Series
We hope you’ll join the presenters for the second and third sessions in the series hosted April 4 and 11, to hear more about supporting art therapists as they grow into professionals and eventually supervisors. If you missed the first session on supporting students and new professionals, it is still available to watch On-Demand.
Each 2-hour virtual session can be purchased individually ($55/session for AATA members) or as a 6-hour bundle at a discounted price ($138 for AATA members). To become a member, get started here.
Beginning in 2023, all Board-Certified Art Therapists (ATR-BCs) need to complete six Continuing Education credits in supervision as part of their 100 required CE credits. By attending this series, art therapists may receive up to six supervision CE credits (two for each session). All art therapists, students, and mental health professionals are welcome to attend!