Richard Whittaker

Honorary Treasurer  2007 - 2009

I qualified in 1999, gaining my MA in 2001. Since qualifying I have worked as a full-time Art therapist mainly within adult mental health. I have been a regular contributing member of the Art Therapy Practice Research Network (ATPRN) since 2001 where I have developed a fledgling interest in outcome measures in art therapy and continue to research this area. I am also currently a member of the steering group of the ATPRN. I have an ongoing interest in cross–disciplinary research, notably centring on "theory of mind deficits" and personality/reflective functioning, an area of research and practice that I feel our profession has expertise in depth. Having worked full-time in adult psychiatry since 1993, like many other art therapists I have seen many changes occur within the NHS, both good and bad. During these challenging times I endeavour to remain committed to providing art therapy to those individuals on the margins of our services. I have been a member of Council since June 2006 where I found myself taking up the unenviable but important role as NICE lead, a position I hope to continue.