Standard and Requirement of REACE®
Registered Expressive Arts Consultant/Educator
Overview
Through the REACE® registration process, IEATA® recognizes individuals who bring creative process and multi-modal expressive arts into a variety of environments. We acknowledge facilitators who use expressive arts as tools for conflict resolution, organizational development, education, personal or professional growth, the healing arts, spiritual enrichment and more. While this work may be of therapeutic value, it is not psychotherapy nor does this registration give recipients authority to conduct psychotherapy.
The Expressive Arts Consultant/Educator uses a variety of arts process such as visual art, movement or dance, creative writing, voice techniques, music and poetry. She or he understands the potential in using expressive arts in the above contexts and has working knowledge of the various art processes and materials.
These individuals may have formal training through academic settings or training institutes, or may have acquired experience through a collection of appropriate trainings and workshops. There are two distinct tracks in this application process: a formal training pathway and a non-formal pathway. Each applicant should choose the one that best fits his or her education and experience.
While the expressive arts therapy environment requires an in-depth understanding of human development and psychological growth, those in the Expressive Arts Consultant/Educator field will have a broad spectrum of educational and/or professional backgrounds. These professionals may work in organizational development, management, health care, service organizations, primary, secondary or adult education, and a wide spectrum of additional environments.
We expect these individuals to have a solid understanding of human development and group dynamics. REACE®’s are not qualified to do psychotherapy unless appropriately trained and/or licensed, and should maintain a referral list of therapists where appropriate. They are encouraged to use the REAT referral list on the IEATA® website. Expressive Arts Therapy hours cannot be used as part of the Consultant/Educator application.
The REACE® must hold to the highest level of integrity. In applying for REACE® registration, the applicant should have a deep and heartfelt understanding of the ethics involved in working closely with individuals. In aligning with the IEATA mission and in receiving IEATA®’s recognition at this level, REACE®s will be expected to subscribe to a code of ethics required of all registrants, thus ensuring the safety, well-being and profound respect for those with whom they work.
The Consultant/Educator can be a facilitator for groups or individuals, for organizations and in academic settings. Some examples of Consultant/Educator roles and settings include:
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Facilitate or teach in a private institute or academic setting
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Guide or facilitate individuals seeking to reframe their lives
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Use the arts to assist a group or individuals exploring personal growth
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Bring the arts into schools or the private sector to work with at-risk youth
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Work with those facing the challenges of physical illness and/or death and dying
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Work with organizations and leaders to facilitate conflict and to assist in team building
By virtue of this diversity, Consultant/Educators come from a variety of training backgrounds. It is essential that the background supports the Consultant/Educator’s ability to interact an ethical and professional manner. He or she must be mature, professional and effective in facilitating conflict and in listening to honest feedback from group members.