Restoring Wisconsin Art Therapy Association in Art Therapy History: Implications for Professional Definition and Inclusivity
Abstract The Wisconsin Art Therapy Association (WATA) formally established in 1969, was the first incorporated organization of art therapists in the United States. Under the leadership of Wayne Ramirez, WATA lobbied the national association for an inclusive definition of art therapy that aimed to foster respect for psychiatric, educational, and community practices equally. In this viewpoint, we restore clarity about WATA's legacy, point out how the organization highlighted the important role of undergraduate art therapy education, and emphasize how the systematic documentation of regional art therapy history can revitalize state associations. We also call on all state associations to document their own histories to showcase their unique contributions to the profession both locally and nationally.