Play Therapy Credentialing Resources: Essential Tools for Success

Play therapy is a form of therapeutic intervention that can be used to help children and adults alike. It has been found to be an effective way of helping people process and work through their emotions, as well as develop new skills for healthy coping. However, becoming a play therapist isn’t always easy—it requires extensive training and credentialing in order to become certified.
Fortunately, there are now plenty of resources available online which provide guidance on the steps needed to pursue this career path successfully. In this article, we will discuss some key play therapy credentialing resources that are available for those who wish to make this profession their own. We will review various online courses, certifications, and other forms of training necessary for obtaining certification in play therapy.
Article Outline
- Why Play Therapy is Important
- What Credentialing is Needed to Become a Play Therapist?
- Different Types of Training Available for Becoming Certified in Play Therapy
- Online Courses and Certifications Needed for Certification in Play Therapy
- Other Resources That Can Help Guide the Process of Credentialing and Certification
- Benefits of Becoming a Certified Play Therapist
- Take The First Step
Why Play Therapy is Important
Play therapy is a form of therapeutic intervention that can be used to help children and adults alike. It has been found to be an effective way of helping people process and work through their emotions, as well as develop new skills for healthy coping. This type of therapy involves the use of toys, games, art materials, stories, and other creative activities in order to create a safe environment where individuals can explore their feelings without fear or judgment. Play therapy helps build trust between therapist and client by providing an opportunity for self-expression and connection with others in a non-threatening way. Through play, clients are able to gain insight into themselves while developing positive relationships with those around them. The end goal is often increased emotional regulation, improved communication skills, better problem solving abilities, reduced anxiety levels, enhanced self-esteem/confidence levels – all leading towards more fulfilling lives overall!
What Credentialing is Needed to Become a Play Therapist?
In order to become a certified play therapist, it is important to understand what type of credentialing is required. Most states require that play therapists obtain certification through the Association for Play Therapy (APT), with additional certifications depending on the state they are practicing in. It is also important to consider the different types of training available for becoming certified in play therapy.
Different Types of Training Available for Becoming Certified in Play Therapy
The Association for Play Therapy (APT) offers a variety of educational programs and certifications that can help those interested in pursuing play therapy as a profession. Some specific courses and certifications include:
- RPT (Registered Play Therapist): A certification designed to provide a basic understanding of play therapy theory and techniques.
- RPT-S (Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor): A certification which requires more advanced training and experience, including supervision of other practitioners.
- APT Approved Provider: An APT approved program or provider of play therapy courses and workshops.
- APT Approved Supervisor: An APT approved supervisor of play therapy training programs and courses.
- Credentialed Play Therapist (CPT): A certification for those who have successfully completed all the required coursework and supervised practice hours to become a certified play therapist.
Online Courses and Certifications Needed for Certification in Play Therapy
In addition to the credentials outlined above, there are also online courses and certifications available for those wishing to pursue play therapy as a profession. Some of these include:
- Play Therapy Institute Online Course: An online course designed to help practitioners develop their skills in providing play therapy.
- The International Association of Play Therapists (IAPT) Certification: A certification for those interested in becoming certified play therapists.
- Child and Adolescent Play Therapy Course: An online course designed to help practitioners become certified in providing play therapy to children and adolescents.
- Play Therapy Training Program: An intensive training program for individuals looking to obtain their credentialed play therapist certification.
Other Resources That Can Help Guide the Process of Credentialing and Certification
In addition to online courses, there are also other resources available to those looking to become certified play therapists. These can include books, support groups, conferences, and seminars, as well as consultations with experienced professionals in the field. It is important for individuals to do their research when considering different credentialing options and make sure they are obtaining the best education and training possible.
Benefits of Becoming a Certified Play Therapist
Becoming a certified play therapist provides many benefits, both professionally and personally. Professionally, it adds to your credentials and can help you stand out when applying for jobs or pursuing higher positions in the field. It also helps build credibility with clients who are looking for experienced and knowledgeable practitioners. On a personal level, it provides a sense of accomplishment knowing that you have achieved an advanced form of education in a field that can help others improve their lives.
Take The First Step
Cross Play Therapy Consulting is a great resource for play therapy credentialing. They provide a wide range of services designed to support and guide individuals in their journey towards becoming certified play therapists. Their team of experts are highly experienced, and they offer both online and onsite courses in play therapy training. These courses cover everything from basic play therapy theory and techniques, to more specific topics such as child and adolescent play therapy. They also provide support for those interested in pursuing certifications from the Association for Play Therapy (APT) and International Association of Play Therapists (IAPT).