Paid Children's Arts Therapist

Paid Children's Arts Therapist

Location: Brooklyn, NY (On-site at A Free Bird–affiliated hospitals)

Start Date: January 2026

Commitment: 1-year minimum

Compensation: Paid position

About A Free Bird

A Free Bird is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in New York City dedicated to empowering children diagnosed with cancer through artistic expression. We believe creativity is a powerful tool for healing, emotional resilience, and self-discovery. Through programs in visual arts, music, writing, acting, and more, we provide children with meaningful opportunities to express themselves during treatment and recovery.

Role Overview

A Free Bird is seeking a licensed Arts Therapist to deliver structured, developmentally appropriate art therapy sessions to pediatric patients (ages 4–18) at our affiliated hospitals. This role is ideal for a compassionate, experienced professional who is passionate about using art as a therapeutic intervention and collaborating within a clinical care environment.

The Arts Therapist will work closely with hospital staff, caregivers, and A Free Bird’s Programs team to ensure high-quality, trauma-informed programming that supports each child’s emotional well-being.

Key Responsibilities

Therapeutic Programming

• Facilitate in-person art therapy sessions for children ages 4–18 at A Free Bird–affiliated hospitals
• Design and submit written lesson plans aligned with therapeutic goals to the Programs Director and/or Take Flight Programs Coordinator
• Adapt sessions based on individual needs, energy levels, and medical considerations

Documentation & Reporting

• Complete required pre-session evaluations and post-session weekly progress reports via Google Forms
• Photograph completed artwork (with proper permissions) and submit documentation as confirmation of session delivery

Collaboration & Child Advocacy

• Communicate session goals, progress, and outcomes clearly with guardians and caregivers
• Coordinate with on-site Child Life Specialists and notify appropriate personnel if concerns arise related to emotional distress, behavioral issues, bullying, or potential abuse
• Maintain professional, ethical, and trauma-informed standards at all times

Qualifications

• Licensed Art Therapist (license required)
• Prior professional experience providing art therapy services
• Must be based in Brooklyn, New York and available for on-site hospital programming
• Experience working with children in clinical, educational, or therapeutic settings
• Strong interpersonal, verbal, and non-verbal communication skills
• Warm, creative, and child-centered approach to therapy

Additional Details

• This is a paid position
• Selected candidates must commit to a minimum of one (1) year
• Role officially begins January 2026

How to Apply

Please submit your resume via the application link above or email it directly to hr@afreebird.org.