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Last updated on 09 April, 2025
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Certified by 3 international accreditation bodies
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Interactives quizzes
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Play Therapy Certification
Overview
Course description
Introduction to Play Therapy
Play Therapy is a powerful and evidence-based therapeutic approach that harnesses the natural language of children—play—to help them express emotions, process experiences, and develop essential coping skills. Unlike traditional talk therapy, Play Therapy provides children with a safe, engaging, and non-verbal outlet to navigate challenges such as anxiety, trauma, behavioral difficulties, and developmental delays.
This Certified & Accredited Play Therapy Course equips mental health professionals, educators, and counselors with the knowledge and skills necessary to integrate Play Therapy into their practice. Whether working in schools, private practice, hospitals, or community centers, this course provides the theoretical foundations, hands-on techniques, and specialized strategies to help children thrive emotionally and socially.
Why Become a Certified Play Therapist?
Becoming a Certified Play Therapist is an invaluable step for professionals seeking to make a lasting impact on children’s mental health. Play Therapy is widely recognized for its effectiveness in helping children build resilience, develop problem-solving skills, and regulate emotions. Through this certification, you will:
- Learn various Play Therapy techniques including Child-Centered Play Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Play Therapy (CBPT), and trauma-focused approaches.
- Gain expertise in interpreting play behaviors to understand the emotional and psychological needs of children.
- Develop practical skills in using toys, art, movement, and storytelling as therapeutic tools.
- Receive accredited certification to establish your expertise in Play Therapy and expand your career opportunities.
- Make a meaningful impact by providing children with a structured, therapeutic environment to express emotions and process life’s challenges.
With the increasing demand for child mental health professionals, obtaining a Play Therapy certification enhances your credentials and positions you as a trusted specialist.
What You Will Learn in This Course
This comprehensive course takes you on a deep dive into the principles, methods, and applications of Play Therapy. You will learn how to create a therapeutic environment that fosters trust and emotional healing. The curriculum covers a wide range of topics, from fundamental Play Therapy theories to advanced intervention strategies.
By the end of this course, you will:
- Understand the core principles and history of Play Therapy
- Master directive and non-directive techniques for different client needs
- Learn to use toys, art, sandplay, music, and storytelling as therapeutic tools
- Develop skills to help children process trauma, anxiety, grief, and behavioral challenges
- Gain confidence in designing Play Therapy sessions for various age groups
- Learn how to involve parents in the therapeutic process for lasting impact
This training equips you with the essential tools to create a safe, structured, and engaging Play Therapy practice
What’s Included in this Course?
This Play Therapy certification course offers a comprehensive learning experience designed for both beginners and experienced professionals.
- Certified & Accredited Training
- Interactive Study Group Access
- 10 Comprehensive Modules
- 10 Audio Lessons for Deeper Learning
- Case Studies & Real-World Applications
- Interactive Quizzes to Reinforce Learning
- 10 PDF Workbooks for Reference
Enroll Today & Become a Certified Play Therapist!
By completing this accredited Play Therapy certification, you will gain the expertise needed to integrate Play Therapy into your professional practice. Whether you are a therapist, educator, counselor, or mental health professional, this course equips you with the tools to help children build resilience, develop emotional intelligence, and process life’s challenges through play.
Join a community of Play Therapy professionals and start making a difference today!
Course benefits
This course includes
Certified & Accredited Course
Study group access
9h 33min of audio course content.
11 modules
Interactives quizzes
10 PDFs
Modules
Course syllabus
Module 1 - Foundations of Play Therapy
This module introduces you to the core principles and essential knowledge of Play Therapy, setting the foundation for understanding its impact on children’s mental health and emotional development. You will explore the origins of Play Therapy, its evolution as a recognized therapeutic approach, and how different models contribute to effective intervention strategies. This module also highlights the significance of ethical considerations, ensuring that practitioners adhere to best practices when working with children in therapeutic settings.
Included in this module:
Introduction to Play Therapy – Understanding play as a medium for communication and healing.
Child-Centered vs. Directive Play Therapy Approaches – A comparison of non-directive (child-led) and therapist-guided methods.
The Therapeutic Powers of Play – Exploring how play fosters emotional regulation, social skills, and resilience.
Ethical Considerations in Play Therapy – Best practices, confidentiality, and ethical responsibilities when working with children.
Module 2 - Historical and Theoretical Foundations
A strong theoretical foundation enhances the effectiveness of any Play Therapy practice. This module takes a deep dive into the history of Play Therapy, tracing its development from early psychoanalytic applications to contemporary approaches. You will gain insight into the major psychological theories that have shaped Play Therapy, allowing you to align your therapeutic approach with established frameworks.
Included in this module:
The History of Play Therapy – From early psychological insights to modern-day applications.
Theories Influencing Play Therapy – Understanding the role of Psychoanalytic, Humanistic, and Cognitive-Behavioral Play Therapy in modern practice.
Research Supporting Play Therapy – Examining scientific studies and evidence-based outcomes that validate Play Therapy’s effectiveness.
Module 3 - Child Development in Play Therapy
Children’s cognitive, emotional, and social development plays a crucial role in their ability to engage with Play Therapy. This module provides an in-depth understanding of childhood developmental stages, helping therapists tailor their interventions to meet the unique needs of each child.
Included in this module:
Developmental Stages and Play – How play behaviors evolve from infancy through adolescence.
Milestones in Cognitive and Emotional Development – Recognizing age-appropriate behaviors and responses in therapy.
Assessing Developmental Needs Through Play – Identifying developmental delays and strengths using Play Therapy techniques.
Module 4 - Child Psychopathology & Play Therapy
Children may experience a range of emotional and behavioral difficulties, including anxiety, trauma, ADHD, and autism spectrum disorders. This module equips you with the knowledge to identify and respond to these challenges using Play Therapy interventions.
Included in this module:
Recognizing Signs of Anxiety, ADHD, Autism, and Trauma – Behavioral indicators that signal the need for intervention.
Using Play Therapy to Support Emotional Regulation – Techniques to help children express and manage emotions in a safe environment.
Tailoring Play Therapy for Different Disorders – How to adjust your approach based on a child’s unique psychological needs.
Module 5 - The Therapeutic Powers of Play
Play Therapy is much more than just play—it is a structured and purposeful therapeutic approach that facilitates emotional healing and cognitive development. This module explores how play serves as a transformative tool for problem-solving, communication, and emotional processing.
Included in this module:
Play as a Natural Language for Expression – Understanding why play is a child’s primary mode of communication.
How Play Builds Resilience and Coping Skills – The role of Play Therapy in emotional development and self-regulation.
Play Therapy Techniques for Emotional Regulation – Helping children work through frustration, anxiety, and emotional distress through play-based interventions.
Module 6 - Advanced Play Therapy Techniques
Expanding beyond foundational techniques, this module explores specialized Play Therapy interventions for children with complex emotional and behavioral needs. You will learn advanced strategies for integrating Play Therapy with other therapeutic modalities, ensuring a well-rounded and flexible approach.
Included in this module:
Integrating Cognitive-Behavioral Techniques into Play – Using structured play activities to help children reframe negative thoughts and build problem-solving skills.
Trauma-Informed Play Therapy – Creating a safe therapeutic environment for children who have experienced trauma.
Sensory-Based Play Interventions – Incorporating tactile and movement-based activities to support emotional and sensory regulation.
Module 7 - Child-Centered Play Therapy (CCPT)
Child-Centered Play Therapy (CCPT) is one of the most widely used Play Therapy approaches, emphasizing the child’s autonomy and ability to self-direct their healing journey. This module explores non-directive techniques that allow children to communicate and process emotions at their own pace.
Included in this module:
Carl Rogers’ Humanistic Approach in Play Therapy – How CCPT is rooted in person-centered psychology.
Techniques for Reflective Listening and Emotional Validation – Helping children feel heard and understood through play.
Building a Strong Therapeutic Relationship Through Play – Creating an accepting and secure space for children to express themselves.
Module 8 - Child-Parent Relationship Therapy (CPRT)
A child’s relationship with their caregiver significantly impacts their emotional well-being. This module explores how Play Therapy can be extended to involve parents, fostering stronger bonds and improving family dynamics.
Included in this module:
Coaching Parents in Therapeutic Play – Teaching caregivers how to use play as a bonding and healing tool.
Strengthening Parent-Child Bonds Through Play – Activities designed to enhance emotional connections.
Overcoming Parent-Child Communication Barriers – Helping caregivers understand and respond to their child’s emotional needs.
Module 9 - Practical Application of Play Therapy
This module bridges the gap between theory and practice, providing real-world case studies and interactive exercises to enhance your Play Therapy skills. You will develop confidence in applying Play Therapy techniques in various professional settings.
Included in this module:
Designing Effective Play Therapy Interventions – Step-by-step guidance on planning and implementing therapy sessions.
Ethical and Cultural Considerations in Practice – Addressing cultural diversity and ethical responsibilities.
Supervision and Feedback in Play Therapy – How to continuously refine and improve your Play Therapy practice.
Module 10 - Developing Expressive Arts Skills in Play Therapy
Creative expression is a key component of Play Therapy. This module focuses on how therapists can incorporate art, music, drama, and storytelling into sessions to enhance emotional processing and engagement.
Included in this module:
Using Art and Drama Therapy in Play Sessions – Encouraging self-expression through visual and performance arts.
Storytelling and Puppet Play for Emotional Processing – Helping children externalize thoughts and emotions in a safe way.
Integrating Music and Movement into Play Therapy – Using rhythm and movement to support self-regulation and communication.
Certification
Our certifications are internationally recognized
Our certificates are accredited by IPHM (International Practitioners of Holistic Medicine), CMA (The Complementary Medical Association), and the CPD (Centre of Excellence), which means that they have been assessed and recognized internationally.
Institution Information
Meet your course creator
Efficient Therapist
Specialization
Holistic Medicine
Coaching & Counseling
Energy Therapies
Courses
Therapeutic Arts Certification
Ayurvedic Practitioner Certification
Professional Hypnotherapy Certification
NLP Practitioner Certification
Lithotherapy Certification
At Efficient Therapist, we started with a simple idea: education should be accessible and straightforward. Having faced the challenges of building a therapy career ourselves, we’re dedicated to making the process easier for others. We’re a small, passionate team focused on helping individuals succeed in their therapy practice. Our goal is to provide practical education, resources, and support—everything you need to build a sustainable and secure career. Whether you’re just starting or looking to expand your skills, we believe education should work for real people, breaking down barriers and fitting into your life. At the core of Efficient Therapist is a commitment to your growth, offering tools and knowledge to empower you every step of the way
Reviews
Reviews
435 reviews
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Amazing experience
The course is well-detailed and contains relevant information which helps me understand the domain better
26 April, 2025
Radu M.
Student
Five star
Loved it
26 April, 2025
Kristy W.
Student
Course Experience
The course is thorough and well structured, I have enjoyed this course thus far.
25 April, 2025
Katelyn G.
Student
Naturopathy
Very informative
25 April, 2025
Elizabeth C.
Student
My experience with the Ayurvedic Practitioner course so far.
The Ayurvedic Practitioner course so far has been amazing, uplifting. I'm enjoying the course very much. I have learnt a lot more than I ever though that I would with no practitioners in my area. This has been a great source so far. Thank-you.
24 April, 2025
Susanne E.
Student
Kinesiology Certification
The information so far has been interesting and the quiz at the end of the module is helping to solidify the information.
24 April, 2025
Regina C.
Student
Natropathy
This is a great course. Lots of information and well put together.
24 April, 2025
Mindy G.
Student
Amazing
Reason I allocated only 4 Stars is, that I have noted mistakes on the exam answers in a dozen of modules. Overall I've enjoyed the Course and can recommend this to anyone open for skill development and improving their lives in their holistic business adventures.
23 April, 2025
Beatrice B.
Student
great experience!
I'm enjoying this,find it useful and like that I can pace myself
23 April, 2025
Jaime C.
Student
Goid
Good
23 April, 2025
Hazel K.
Student
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Benefits
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I sign up for a course?
Just pick the course you’re interested in and click “Add to cart.” When you’re ready, head to the checkout and complete your payment. You’ll get a confirmation email right away. If you want a printed certificate, you can choose that during checkout too!
How long does it take to complete a course?
That really depends on how many pages you go through per day or week, and of course, on your previous experience. The course is completely online and self-paced, so there are no deadlines. Once you’ve purchased the course, you’ll have lifetime access to all the material. It’s made up of several modules, some are lighter, while others a bit heavier. For most students, completing the entire course takes around 40 hours.
If I need help with the course, can I ask a question?
Yes, absolutely. The student forum is available for this purpose, you can post your questions and either a mentor or another student will get back to you, usually within 48 hours (excluding weekends and holidays). And feel free to share your wins too!
I can’t log in or forgot my password, what should I do?
Start by checking your inbox and spam folder for your login email, especially if it’s your first time logging in. Make sure you're using the same email address you used when signing up and that you're on the correct website. If needed, click “Forgot Password?” on the login page and follow the steps to reset it. If the email doesn't arrive, double-check your spam folder and try again. Still having trouble? Just reach out to our support team at [email protected], we're happy to help and usually respond within 48 hours (excluding weekends and holidays). We recommend saving your login details when you receive your registration email to avoid any issues later on.
Do I need to attend anything live, or can I study whenever it suits me?
The entire course takes place online and is fully self-paced, so you can study whenever it suits you best. There are no trips, workshops, or live classes required. You’ll get access to course modules as downloadable PDFs, audio files, and in some cases, videos. You study independently in your own time, and if you have any questions, you’re always welcome to ask them in the forum.
How am I assessed during the course?
You’ll find short quizzes at the end of each module to help you reflect on what you’ve learned, they’re NOT graded and are just for your own understanding. At the end of the course, there’s a final multiple-choice exam that is graded. You’ll need to score at least 80% to pass. Don’t worry, if you do not achieve 80% your first time, you can retake the exam at any time.
Are there any prerequisites?
There are no prerequisites or minimum educational requirements. All our courses are carefully designed to be accessible to as many people as possible. You can study from a computer, tablet, or smartphone. If your internet connection is unstable, we recommend downloading the PDF modules and audio files so you can access them offline whenever it suits you. Just keep in mind that you’ll need an internet connection to complete the quizzes and take the final exam.
Do I receive a certificate at the end of the course?
You will receive a printed certificate if you selected that option during registration. Otherwise, you can order it later at any time from your student portal under the "Certificates" section – OR download it for free as a PDF.
Are your certificates officially accredited, or are they just for personal development?
The professions for which our courses prepare you are part of the unregulated occupations in most countries. This means there is no official recognition. However, local regulations may vary. We recommend that you inquire with the relevant authorities. Our courses are designed to provide essential foundational knowledge, making them an excellent starting point for anyone looking to enter a new field or expand their expertise. They equip you with practical skills and a deep understanding of the subject matter, enabling you to either begin your career or enhance your existing expertise in a cost-effective way. Our courses are accredited by respected international organisations. That said, the fields we train for aren’t regulated in most countries, so recognition can vary depending on where you live. It’s always a good idea to double-check with local authorities if you're unsure.
Why are the courses sometimes discounted so much?
We believe that quality education should be accessible to everyone, not just a privilege for a few. From time to time, we offer significant discounts to open the door for more people to learn, grow, and discover new opportunities. It’s part of our mission to make personal and professional development more inclusive, regardless of budget.
Play Therapy Certification
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