How to Become a Certified Play Therapist

Here's a step-by-step guide to becoming a certified play therapist, complete with details on training, certification, jobs, and potential salary expectations.

Play therapy uses various techniques from play and the creative arts to help children deal with psychological and emotional challenges that may contribute to behavioral issues or hinder their potential. This approach fosters a fun and engaging environment where children can express themselves, explore their feelings, and build new skills.

Play therapists facilitate play sessions, evaluate children's emotional and mental health needs, and implement suitable interventions. Generally, play therapy is designed for children aged 3 to 12, but other methods can address the needs of older children, teenagers, and even adults. Therefore, it's crucial to acknowledge the variety of models available.

Most play therapist jobs require at least a master’s degree in psychology, counseling, social work, or a related field. Play therapy master’s programs specifically designed to integrate the core principles of play therapy into clinical practice are also available and highly beneficial.

Hands-on experience is crucial. Seek out internships or volunteer opportunities that allow you to work directly with children in a therapeutic setting. This experience will help you develop the skills needed to become an effective play therapist.

Look for play therapy certification programs accredited by the Association for Play Therapy (APT). These programs offer comprehensive training in therapeutic play techniques, including directive and non-directive play therapy methods.
 

To become a certified play therapist, you must meet the standards set by the APT. Requirements typically include a specific number of hours of supervised experience and completion of play therapy education. The title of "Registered Play Therapist" is granted to those who have completed the necessary training and supervision hours.

The field of play therapy is constantly evolving, so it’s essential to stay current with the latest research, techniques, and best practices. Continuing education courses and additional certifications can also enhance your skills and expertise.

As a certified play therapist, you can work in various settings, including schools, hospitals, clinics, and private practice. The play therapist's salary can vary widely based on your location, experience, and the specific setting in which you work. The average salary for a play therapist in the U.S. typically ranges from approximately $40,000 to $70,000 per year. However, those with extensive experience and additional certifications may earn more. Play therapists working in private practice can increase their earnings by managing a more extensive clientele or charging higher rates, depending on the market and their reputation.

Networking with other mental health professionals who specialize in play therapy can provide valuable contacts, potential job leads, and professional support. Joining professional associations like the APT not only helps in networking but also provides access to skilled resources and continuing education opportunities.

Becoming a play therapist requires a strong educational foundation, specialized training, and a commitment to ongoing education. By following these steps, you can enhance your skills as a mental health clinician and make a significant impact on the lives of children and adolescents through the power of play therapy. Whether starting or redirecting efforts in mental health practice, pursuing certification as a play therapist presents significant opportunities to enhance resilience and well-being in young clients.

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Podcasts

• More Than Just Playin Around – The Ins and Outs (and Amazing Effectiveness!) of Play Therapy with Dee Ray
• Let's Roll Play: D&D in Therapy