Registered Play Therapists…
Registered Play Therapist
When searching for the right support for your child, you might notice that some therapists identify as a Play Therapist or even say they use play therapy, while others say they “use play” in their sessions. While all can be valuable, there’s a big difference between a therapist trained specifically in Play Therapy and one who incorporates play without specialized training.
So, what exactly does it mean to be a Registered Play Therapist? What kind of training do we go through, and how does it impact the work we do with children? Let’s dive into what sets a Registered Play Therapist apart and why this expertise matters for your child’s growth and healing.
The Journey to Becoming a Registered Play Therapist
Becoming a Registered Play Therapist is a rigorous process that goes beyond the general requirements for becoming a licensed therapist. Here is a breakdown of what it takes:
Educational Foundation
A Registered Play Therapist starts with a graduate degree in counseling, psychology, social work, or a related field.
They must also obtain licensure as a mental health professional (e.g., LPC, LCSW, LMHC, etc.) or equivalent.
Specialized Play Therapy Training
150 hours of Play Therapy-specific training: This includes coursework, workshops, and hands-on training in techniques like child-centered play, directive play interventions, sand tray therapy, and expressive arts.
Training focuses on understanding child development, attachment theory, trauma-informed practices, and the therapeutic power of play.
Clinical Experience
500 hours of supervised clinical experience in Play Therapy: These hours are spent directly working with children in a Play Therapy setting under the supervision of a Registered Play Therapist Supervisor (RPT-S).
Credentialing
To become a Registered Play Therapist (RPT), therapists must meet all the above criteria and apply for certification through the Association for Play Therapy (APT).
This extensive training ensures that a Play Therapist has the skills, knowledge, and experience to guide your child through challenges in a developmentally appropriate and effective way.
What to Look for in a Play Therapist
When searching for a Play Therapist, it’s essential to understand the difference between Registered Play Therapist (RPT) and a therapist who simply “uses play” in sessions. Here is what to keep in mind:
Credentials matter - look for the title Registered Play Therapist (RPT) or Registered Play Therapist Supervisor (RPT-S). These indicate the therapist has completed the rigorous training, clinical hours, and credentialing required by the Association for Play Therapy.
Supervision counts - some therapists are in the process of becoming RPT and are working under the supervision of an RPT-S. These therapists are highly qualified, as they’re actively receiving specialized guidance and training while gaining the necessary experience. Working with someone under the RPT-S supervision can be just as effective as seeing an RPT.
Ask about their training in Play Therapy. A therapist who incorporates play may not have the depth of understanding or the ability to interpret the symbolic language of play in the same way a trained and Registered Play Therapist does.
What Does a Registered Play Therapist Do Differently?
During a Play Therapy session, the approach is intentional and grounded in specialized techniques. Here is how it differs from general therapy that includes play:
Purposeful Play Interventions: Every toy, activity, and interaction in a session is selected with a therapeutic goal in mind. Trained Play Therapists understand how different play modalities (like pretend play, sand tray therapy, or art) address specific emotional or behavioral challenges.
Deep Understanding of Play Themes: A trained Play Therapist is skilled at recognizing the symbolic language of play. For example, recurring themes like “rescue missions” or “monsters” might reflect a child’s underlying fears or struggles.
Child-Centered Techniques: Play Therapists know when to let the child lead the session and when to gently guide them toward deeper exploration. This balance requires training and practice.
Parent Collaboration: Play Therapists actively involve parent or caregivers, sharing insights from sessions (while still maintaining confidentiality for the child) and providing strategies for supporting the child at home.
Types of Play Therapist
Just like children are unique, Play Therapy isn’t a one-size-fits-all. Here are some of the different approaches a trained Play Therapist might use:
Child-Centered Play Therapy (CCPT): A non-directive approach where the child leads the session, and the therapist follows their cues, providing a safe and accepting space.
Directive Play Therapy: The therapist takes a more active role, using specific activities or games to address certain issues, like emotional regulation or problem solving.
Theraplay ®: A structured approach focused on building attachment and trust between the child and caregiver.
Sand Tray Therapy: Children use a tray of sand and miniatures to create scenes that reflect their inner world.
Expressive Arts: Incorporates art, music, and movement to help children express themselves non-verbally.
Each of these approaches requires specialized training and is tailored to the child’s unique needs and circumstances.
Why Choose a Trained Play Therapist?
While many therapists say they use play therapy in their sessions, working with a trained Play Therapist ensures your child is receiving care from someone with advanced expertise in how play heals and supports development. Here’s why this matters:
Deeper Insight: A trained Play Therapist has the knowledge to interpret your child’s play and understand the deeper emotions or experiences being expressed.
Tailored Techniques: They can adapt their methods to fit your child’s specific needs, whether they’re dealing with anxiety, trauma, or behavioral challenges.
Developmentally Appropriate: Trained Play Therapists know how to meet children at their level, creating a space where they feel seen, heard, and understood.
Safety and Structure: Their training equips them to handle complex emotions and situations in a way that ensures your child feels safe and supported.
Is Play Therapy Right for Your Child?
If your child is struggling and traditional talk therapy doesn’t feel like the right fit, Play Therapy might be the perfect solution. By choosing a Registered Play Therapist or one in training, you’re giving your child the opportunity to heal and grow in a way that’s designed just for them.
Curious to learn more or ready to take the next step? We’d be happy to talk with you about how Play Therapy can support your family. Let’s work together to help your child thrive.
With Kindness,
Brittany Waitt