TAMPA, Fla. — While mental health issues are on the rise, there’s an increased demand for therapists. However, some specializing in art therapy struggle to secure licensure in Florida. With Senate Bill 878, this situation could change.

Joseph Scarce is the president of the Florida Art Therapy Association and owner of a health services company that is advocating for this bill. He says that more art therapists are leaving the state due to licensure issues.

“The license will legitimize the profession and provide an opportunity for folks to bill for services and encourage more art therapists to come and work in Florida,” he said.

Painting can have healing powers, offering a break from reality. Dana Fidler’s love for art began when she was a child painting with her mom in the kitchen. Now, she hopes her skills can lead to a career in art therapy.

“I wanted to be an art therapist since I first heard about it at the University of Tampa. I want to help people. I want to help my community,” she said.

Fidler majored in art therapy at UT and graduated in 2022, viewing it as her purpose and a way to contribute to something larger than herself.

However, Fidler’s dream fell short when she discovered that Florida doesn’t recognize licensed art therapists.

“It’s doing a service to the community members of the state of Florida and Tampa,” she said.

She works at Joe’s Art Time, helping people like John who just discovered art in September.

“I finally found my purpose. I was born with this artistic ability, but I never did anything with it. It’s been a journey, it’s been a ride,” said John E., who did not want to reveal his full name. “Battling homelessness and addiction, art has helped him overcome self-destructive tendencies.”

Senate Bill 878 aims to require the Department of Health to license art therapists and was introduced at the beginning of this legislative session. Fidler’s therapeutic teaching has opened doors for John. His paintings are showcased throughout Tampa.

“For one thing, I can’t create under the influence, so for me to do what I do, I need to be sober as an alcoholic. I have self-destructive tendencies. This helps me overcome the self-destructive tendencies,” he said.

Just as starting a new sketch represents a fresh beginning, Fidler believes art therapy can have a transformative impact.

“It’s been my dream, even before I knew it. Our therapy was to help people and support them,” she said.

She’s hoping for the opportunity to use her passion to change lives.

Every Friday from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m., Joe’s Art Time provides free art therapy sessions at Portico Church in Tampa.