Art Therapy is a big plus for the Commonwealth of Virginia and for the general populace at large.  We know of several people who have been helped to heal mentally and emotionally due to Art Therapy services. Licensure allows protection for both providers and for the general public. Regulatory guidelines would help to prevent untrained, unethical, or those seeking personal gain, from practicing Art Therapy to the detriment of others. Moreover, licensure can help provide services to more people who need it because insurance companies would be more willing to participate with payment for services.