A field training model for creative arts therapies: Report from a 3-year program evaluation

Clinical field training is an essential component of educating future therapists. This article discusses a creative arts therapies field training model in Israel as designed and modified from 3years of program evaluation in a changing regulatory context. A clinical seminar structure puts beginning students in the role of participant-observer in their clinical instructor's weekly group therapy sessions followed by facilitated debriefing. Second-year students enroll in a supervised practicum, followed in the third year with a post-master's internship provided by the university in a continuing education format. Details of how the initial structure was adapted over 3years of implementation are provided. A discussion of field training models may encourage further evaluation of the structures that will best support the development of clinical skills.