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Play Therapist: Key Skills, Qualifications and Career Path

Learn about the key skills, qualifications, and career path for a Play Therapist

On this page

– What is a Play Therapist?

– Skills

– Qualifications & Education

– Career Path

– FAQ

What is a Play Therapist?

A Play Therapist uses play and creative arts to help children express their feelings and deal with emotional problems. This role involves careful observation and assessment of the child's needs, so appropriate treatments can be applied for their mental health and well-being.

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Skills

Strong communication and active listening skills
Empathy and the ability to build rapport with children
Knowledge of child development and psychology
Creativity and the ability to use play as a therapeutic tool
Patience and the ability to remain calm in challenging situations
Problem-solving and critical thinking skills
Cultural sensitivity and the ability to work with diverse populations
Strong observational skills and the ability to assess and evaluate children's behavior
Collaboration and teamwork skills to work with other professionals in a multidisciplinary setting
Ethical and professional conduct in maintaining client confidentiality and boundaries

Qualifications & Education

Possession of an accredited degree or postgraduate qualification
Completion of training, which can take between two to five years depending on the chosen method of study
Exposure to a mixture of theoretical study and practical experience
Membership of professional bodies may be mandatory in some areas

Career Path

Play Therapist

Clinical Psychologist

Child Psychologist

Educational Psychologist

Researcher in Child Development

University Lecturer in Psychology

Art Therapist

Creative Arts Therapist

Expressive Arts Therapist

Private Practice Owner

Counselor for Children and Adolescents

Family Therapist

Marriage and Family Therapist

Relationship Coach

Child Life Specialist

Pediatric Nurse

Pediatric Nurse Practitioner

Frequently Asked Questions

Are play therapists in demand?

Yes, play therapists are in demand in the UK.

Do you need to go to uni to be a play therapist?

Yes, you need to have a relevant degree in order to pursue postgraduate study and become a play therapist in the UK.

What qualifications do I need to be a play therapist?

To become a play therapist in the UK, you will need to earn a degree in psychology, occupational therapy, or social work. This qualification is necessary to develop the necessary skills and knowledge in therapy that can be applied to a full-time role.