Play therapist
Play therapists help children to make sense of difficult life experiences, or complex psychological issues through play.
- Starter salary£31,000 a year
- Experienced£53,000 a year
- Typical hours35 to 40 a week
What you'll do
In this role you could:
- work closely with parents, carers and other professionals
- assess a child's needs and decide on a suitable course of action
- run sessions for individuals or groups, using creative arts and storytelling
- monitor and record children's progress
- take part in regular supervision sessions with a more experienced therapist
Working environment
You could work at a client's home, at a children's care home, at a health centre or at a school.
Your working environment may be emotionally demanding.
Skills and knowledge you'll need
You'll need:
- sensitivity and understanding
- excellent verbal communication skills
- the ability to understand people's reactions
- knowledge of psychology
- patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
- the ability to work well with others
- to be flexible and open to change
- the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
- to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently
How to become a play therapist
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- an apprenticeship
University
You'll need to complete a degree followed by a postgraduate qualification approved by the British Association of Play Therapists or Play Therapy UK .
Your undergraduate degree should be in a related subject like:
- psychology
- early childhood studies
- mental health nursing
- social work
- education
You'll also need experience of working with children in professions like teaching, nursing, counselling, therapy or social work.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study
Apprenticeship
You could do a Play Therapist Level 7 Higher Apprenticeship.
This typically takes 3 years to complete.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- experience in related work
- a degree in a relevant subject
Restrictions and requirements
You'll need to:
- pass enhanced background checks as you may work with children and vulnerable adults
Career path and progression
With experience and further training, you could:
- supervise less experienced therapists
- provide a consultation service to professionals in the community
- move into training, lecturing or clinical supervision
Career tips
If you have an interest in play therapy and work in a profession like teaching, nursing, counselling or social work you may be able to take an introductory course to find out more about it.
Registration
- you'll need to register with the British Association of Play Therapists or Play Therapy UK
Guides for this industry
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