Expressive Arts Therapist - [Carter School] (SY25-26)

Boston Public Schools; Boston (MA); On-site; USD 50,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Boston Public Schools is seeking an Expressive Arts Therapist to serve students with disabilities and enhance their educational access through innovative therapy practices. This role emphasizes collaboration within a multidisciplinary team, supporting diverse student needs in an enriching environment while promoting creativity and equity.

Qualifications

• Current authorization to work in the United States required.
• Education qualifications must adhere to state and federal guidelines.

Responsibilities

• Assess students referred for evaluation and provide therapy services.
• Consult with teachers, parents, and other providers for effective service delivery.

Skills

Interpersonal Skills

Cultural Humility

Relationship-Building

Equity Advocacy

Education

Master’s Degree in Creative Arts Therapy

Valid Clinical Licensure (LMHC)

Job description

Expressive Arts Therapist Reports To : School Leader

Who We Are

At our school, we proudly support students with diverse abilities, including those facing cognitive challenges, physical disabilities, and complex medical needs. Our innovative Transdisciplinary Model fosters collaboration among teachers and therapists, ensuring a holistic learning experience with the priority of increasing each students ability to communicate through Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC). Our vibrant community celebrates a rich tapestry of cultures and backgrounds. Excitingly, in 2025, we’ll be moving to a beautiful new building featuring a therapeutic pool, sensory garden, rooftop classroom, and specialized spaces designed just for our students. We warmly invite you to join us at The Carter for the upcoming 2025-2026 school year!

Position Overview:

To provide services to students with disabilities that will allow them to access the BPS curriculum and to participate in both school and community life to the greatest extent possible. This is an exciting opportunity for an Expressive Arts Therapist who desires to serve where their efforts matter and work in close collaboration with an interdisciplinary team. In BPS, the staff and leaders are committed to the vision of high expectations for achievement, equal access to high levels of instruction, the achievement of academic proficiency for all students, and the closing of the achievement gap among subgroups within the schools. BPS is a great place for those who seek to work in an environment that supports their creativity and innovation and respects their skills and abilities as an Expressive Arts Therapist.

Responsibilities:

Expressive Arts Therapy Services:

• Expressive Arts Therapists will assess students referred for evaluation using appropriate testing instruments. Evaluations will be performed within timelines established in standards of practice.
• Therapy and consultation services will be provided to students based on the individual needs of each student and in compliance with each child's IEP.
• Expressive Arts Therapists will provide individual and/or group services which may include IEP and non-IEP services.
• Expressive Arts Therapists will provide timely and regular progress reports on student development.
• Expressive Arts Therapists will consult with other Related Services providers, teachers, and parents to provide effective services in a variety of settings.

General Responsibilities:

• Expressive Arts Therapists are to comply with state regulations concerning renewal of certifications and licenses.
• Expressive Arts Therapists are expected to develop, update, and adhere to both a daily and weekly schedule.
• Expressive Arts Therapists are expected to comply with BPS rules, policies, and procedures as well as those of their assigned school and Unified Student Services.
• Expressive Arts Therapists are expected to maintain records of prior planning of lessons keep therapy notes for each child and therapy session and maintain accurate records of student attendance
• Additional school-based responsibilities at the direction of the school leader.

Qualifications - Required:

• Education: Hold a Master’s Degree in Creative Arts Therapy, Expressive Arts therapy, or a related field from an accredited college or university.
• Hold a validclinical licensure (LMHC) or license eligible
• Meet all state and federal guidelines to be fully certified
• Current authorization to work in the United States - Candidates must have such authorization by their first day of employment.
• English proficiency is required - Spanish/other language is a plus
• Strong interpersonal skills to work with schools, students, parents, and community-based agencies.
• Model and promote authentic relationship-building and collaboration with students, families, school community, and partnering agencies.
• Demonstrates understanding of racial equity and ability to engage in dialogue about race, intersectionality, and systems of oppression.
• Demonstrates a deep sense of cultural humility and self-awareness.
• Commitment to working with parents and students as partners in education.
• Must hold the belief that all students can learn and deserve opportunities to achieve the greatness within them.
• Respect for all children and their families through an asset-based lens.
• Willingness to serve as an advocate for all children.

Qualifications - Preferred:

• Experience working in a public school setting with urban youth.
• Identify as a lifelong learner and reflective practitioner.

Terms: BTU Group 1

Please refer to www.bostonpublicschools.org/ohc (under "Employee Benefits and Policies") for more information on salary and compensation. Salaries are listed by Unions and Grade/Step.

The start and end times of BPS schools vary, as do the lengths of the school day. Some BPS schools have a longer school day through the "Schedule A" Expanded Learning Time (ELT) agreement.

The Boston Public Schools, in accordance with its nondiscrimination policies, does not discriminate in its programs, facilities, or employment or educational opportunities on the basis of race, color, age, criminal record (inquiries only), disability, homelessness, sex/gender, gender identity, religion, national origin, ancestry, sexual orientation, genetics or military status, and does not tolerate any form of retaliation, or bias-based intimidation, threat or harassment that demeans individuals’ dignity or interferes with their ability to learn or work.