ABSTRACT
Since the Internet’s early beginnings, the concept of community has historically been at the center of online activity. This chapter addresses the significance and value of digital community for art therapists. Online professional art therapy groups are often dedicated to exchanging occupational related information and knowledge, in addition to finding value in collaboration or supporting each other with professionally driven projects, endeavors, and learning. Content includes exploring communities of practice online for art therapists to build knowledge, cultivate collegiate relationships and exchange, offer support, create a sense of belonging, and strengthen professional identity. Uses and examples of digital community for art therapists through social media are described. Suggestions for art therapists to consider for online community building, supporting the hierarchy of digital community needs and developing community norms and standards, are also explored. An art experiential and discussion questions are provided to further explore the chapter content.
