Selecting the right play therapy program requires diligence and research. It is not just about the reputation of the institution but ensuring that the program aligns with your career aspirations, financial capabilities, and learning style. Once you've found the perfect match, you'll be on your way to completing some of the requirements to become a Registered Play Therapist (RPT) or use the program components to advance your practice in therapeutic play techniques.
Therapy
Certificate
Benefits of University Graduate Programs in Play Therapy
-
Professional Validation: For working clinicians or those wishing to train in play therapy, at an introductory level, graduate programs in play therapy offer the advantage of learning the foundations and strengthening basic skills.
-
Accessibility: Many play therapy graduate programs are offered online and can be accessed from anywhere.
-
Multi-modal Learning: Online graduate courses often provide a combination of video lectures, reading materials, interactive forums, and even virtual interactive experiences.
Find a Graduate Level Play Therapy Program
-
Research Accrediting Bodies: Start by understanding the professional governing bodies that recognize and accredit play therapy courses. In the U.S., the Association for Play Therapy (APT) is the only organization able to provide for accreditation of Registered Play Therapists (RPTs). If you hope to apply for the RPT, check the graduate course prior to registration to determine whether their program has APT Approved CE Provider status or their graduate play therapy credits count towards the RPT.
-
Online Institutions and Universities: Many reputable institutions offer play therapy certification programs online. A few of the top programs are currently: The Play Strong Institute, University of Missisippi, Loma Linda University, George Fox University, and Capella University. When researching, look for institutions that have a strong background in mental health or counseling education.
-
Course Content: Ensure the course content covers essential topics such as child development, therapeutic play techniques, the history and theory of play therapy, law and ethics, clinical applications, special topics and populations, and cultural diversity.
-
Faculty Credentials: An excellent graduate play therapy course will have instructors or professors who are recognized experts in the field of play therapy. Their experience and guidance can significantly enhance the quality of education provided.
-
Reviews and Testimonials: It is beneficial to read reviews and testimonials from former students. This can provide insights into the course's effectiveness, support services, and real-world applicability.
-
Financial Investment: While it is essential to invest in quality education, it is also necessary to consider the financial impact. Look for courses that offer a good balance between cost and quality. Some institutions might even offer financial aid or payment plans.
-
Hands-on Experience: Even though a course may be offered online, it should ideally provide opportunities for interactive or observation experience. This might include virtual simulations, supervised clinical hours, or partnerships with local clinics for practical exposure. Not every course offers a live component, but some will include a practicum or supervision experience.
-
Certification Advances Practice : Once you complete the course, your graduate program or certification should advance your practice or help you meet partial requirements to become a Registered Play Therapist (RPT) in the U.S. if desired. Applicants from other countries may still be eligible to complete an online program even if they are not able to become an RPT outside of the U.S.