The Association for Play Therapy (APT) promotes the power and efficacy of play therapy. Through its tireless efforts in education, research, and advocacy, APT has elevated play therapy and validated its various models using a range of therapeutic techniques. For anyone seeking to explore, understand, or practice play therapy, APT remains an indispensable source of information and community.
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The Association for Play Therapy
The Association for Play Therapy (APT) was established in 1982 as a national professional society to connect mental health professionals interested in exploring and using play therapy. Its formation marked a significant step in acknowledging play therapy as a distinct and crucial subset of the broader therapeutic community. From its inception, APT has been committed to advancing the field of play therapy, promoting research, training, and recognizing the exceptional work of its practitioners.
Mission and Vision
APT's core mission is to promote the value and understanding of play therapy, uphold standards of professional practice, and support the professional development of play therapists. Their vision revolves around integrating play therapy into the mainstream of comprehensive mental health services.
Key Objectives and Services
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Education and Training: APT provides various educational resources, including publications, conferences, and training sessions, to help professionals in the field enhance their skills and understanding.
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Certification: Recognizing the need for standards, APT offers a Registered Play Therapist (RPT) credential to those who meet the required education, experience, and supervision criteria. This certification assures the public of the therapist's qualifications and expertise in play therapy.
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Research: APT promotes research initiatives to expand the empirical base supporting the efficacy of play therapy. It provides grants, publishes a journal, and disseminates research findings to both therapists and the public.
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Networking: Through conferences, local chapters, and online platforms, APT facilitates interaction among play therapy professionals, allowing them to share insights, techniques, and experiences.
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Public Awareness: APT works to increase awareness and understanding of play therapy among the general public, healthcare professionals, and educational institutions.
Why Play Therapy?
Play is the natural language of children. Through play, they can express their feelings, understand complex concepts, and process traumatic experiences. For children who may not have the vocabulary or cognitive development to express their emotions and experiences verbally, play therapy provides a safe, non-threatening avenue for exploration and healing.
Play therapists are trained to interpret the underlying messages in children’s play and use appropriate interventions to help them navigate their feelings and problems. The playroom becomes a safe haven where children can express themselves without fear of judgment, punishment, or misunderstanding.