The Ontario Art Therapy Association, founded in 1978, is a government chartered non-profit organization. Its mission is to serve its members and the public by establishing standards of Art Therapy education, professional competence and ethical practice.

The Association is governed and directed by nine elected Board Members. Members of the OATA are governed and regulated by a Code of Ethics, Standards of Practice, and a Constitution.

The Association is mandated to provide for the development, the promotion and the maintenance of the profession of Art Therapy in Ontario. In addition, the OATA grants Registered status to Professional members upon successful conclusion of a rigorous process, which includes the documentation of education, and post-graduate supervised experience.