What are the main considerations when

CRAFTING AN ART THERAPIST’S
ONLINE IDENTITY?

Whilst many arts therapists have professional websites and online portfolios, there is little research to guide arts therapists through the intricacies of creating on online identity using emerging technologies, in an emerging field. This authoethnographic study explores online identity formation which has ramifications for both online and offline client interactions. Through thematic analysis, a number of considerations for creating an art therapist’s online identity emerged: 1) integrating personal values and professionalism; 2) boundary management; and 3) client’s needs. Results are presented as a series of web-articles and blog posts exploring challenges facing art therapists, such as role ambiguity, safety, privacy, ethics and professional self-esteem, offering recommendations in the form of a personal manifesto for art therapist when creating an online identity. 

Keywords: Dual identity, role ambiguity, art therapy, artist, identity, professional self-esteem, professionalism, website, social-media, marketing, autoethnography.