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Play Therapist
Play therapists help children to make sense of difficult life experiences, past or present, through the symbolic communication of play. Play is a child's natural way of communicating and this can help them to explore various issues that they might find difficult to express in other ways.
Play therapy work is usually with children aged between 3 and 11, sometimes with adolescents, and mainly on a one-to-one basis with sessions lasting about an hour. Some play therapists also work with groups of children.
Approaches and techniques vary from child-centred (also known as ‘non-directive’) to 'focused' or 'directive'. Play therapists use toys such as puppets, cars and dolls, as well as play materials like paints, crayons, sand and water.
Therapists keep written records of sessions with children. They are responsible for writing letters and reports, as well as liaising with parents and other professionals. Sometimes they may have to attend court.
Play therapy has developed into a career in its own right, but it is also a method of working with children that is used in other professions such as social work, nursing or child mental health.
Hours and Environment
Many play therapists work part-time. Play therapy sessions are usually held on weekdays, and some play therapists work after school, up to about 6.30pm.
They work indoors, sometimes in a specially equipped playroom, but often in children's own homes or schools. A driving licence is useful.
Skills and Interests
To be a play therapist you should:
- have a broad knowledge of the physical and emotional development of children
- be able to empathise with and understand children who have experienced distressing situations
- be alert and aware of the many different ways in which children communicate their feelings
- be honest and sincere in your respect for children
- accept difficult and perhaps shocking behaviour or facts, without making judgements
- be aware of the importance of confidentiality
- have a lot of physical energy (although disability is not necessarily a barrier to this work).
Entry
Play therapy is usually a second career for people who already have extensive experience of working with children. Many therapists have a background, and appropriate qualifications, in areas such as social work, teaching and occupational therapy. The British Association of Play Therapists (BAPT) hold details of relevant first careers/qualifications; check the BAPT website for details.
There are no statutory training and registration requirements for play therapists. However, the British Association of Play Therapists (BAPT) accredit training courses and register practitioners. Taking an accredited course is considered important for professional recognition.
The entry requirements for a BAPT training course usually include a degree in a relevant subject, such as psychology or social work, plus two years experience of working with children. This experience could be on a paid or voluntary basis.
Entry to a degree course usually requires five GCSEs (A-C)/S grades (1-3) plus two A levels/three H grades, or equivalent qualifications. An Access to Higher Education qualification may also be accepted for entry to certain courses. Please check with colleges or universities for exact entry requirements.
You need to be in good physical and mental health, and undergo a check through the Criminal Records Bureau.
The minimum age for entry onto BAPT training is 25 and the average student is aged between 30 and 45 years. Maturity and experience are highly valued.
Training
The BAPT accredit several postgraduate qualifications in Play Therapy. Courses are usually studied part-time for two years. Please contact the BAPT for course details; see Further Information.
Training will involve academic study and a substantial element of supervised clinical practice gained from placements. As a student you will undergo personal therapy or counselling.
During training, and throughout your career, you will have periods where you are formally supervised by qualified and experienced colleagues. Supervision provides opportunities for you to discuss issues that arise during your work which helps you to grow and develop professionally.
The BAPT requires its members to maintain some form of continual professional development (CPD); this may be achieved by attending courses and conferences.
Opportunities
Play therapists are employed by social services departments, health services, education and voluntary agencies. This is a rapidly expanding career, with most jobs in large towns and cities.
There are few full-time posts. Play therapists usually work on a part-time or freelance basis and may combine play therapy with another profession. It is common for a play therapist to be employed by more than one organisation and have a private practice alongside this employment.
Annual Income
Figures are intended as a guideline only.
The BAPT suggests fees of between £30 and £80 for a session of around 50 minutes.
For a full-time post, a newly qualified therapist may earn an annual salary of between £18,500 and £20,500.
An experienced play therapist may earn up to £30,000 a year.
Further information
Email: learning@nhscareers.nhs.uk
South Road
Weybridge
Surrey
KT13 9DZ
Tel: 01932 828638
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The information contained in our Career Profiles Database was correct at time of publishing, but since publication certain details may have changed so please use this section as a research tool and in some cases further research may be required.
Careers Database Information By Learn Direct Advice