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Child Play Therapy Jobs (NOW HIRING)

LOVE PLAY GROW

Child Family Therapist

Pequannock, NJ · On-site

$70 - $90/wk

Competitive benefit package ⸻ Love Play Grow, a thriving child and family therapy practice, is seeking a compassionate and experienced Child and Family Therapist to join our team in either our ...

LOVE PLAY GROW

Child Family Therapist

Pequannock, NJ · On-site

$70 - $90/wk

Competitive benefit package ⸻ Love Play Grow, a thriving child and family therapy practice, is seeking a compassionate and experienced Child and Family Therapist to join our team in either our ...

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How much do child play therapy jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for child play therapy in the United States is $15.29, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.98 and $16.83 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is child play therapy?

Child play therapy is a form of counseling or psychotherapy in which play is used as a means of helping children express their feelings, resolve conflicts, and develop problem-solving skills. Through play, children can process experiences, communicate emotions, and work through trauma or behavioral issues in a safe and supportive environment. Play therapists are specially trained professionals who use various techniques and toys to facilitate this therapeutic process, tailoring sessions to the individual needs of each child.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a child play therapist?

To thrive as a Child Play Therapist, you need a background in psychology, counseling, or social work, often requiring a relevant degree and state licensure. Familiarity with therapeutic modalities, play therapy techniques, and tools such as sand trays, puppets, and art materials is essential, along with certifications like Registered Play Therapist (RPT) when applicable. Strong soft skills such as empathy, patience, and excellent communication help build trust with children and collaborate with families and other professionals. These competencies are crucial for effectively supporting children's emotional development and addressing behavioral or psychological challenges.

How do child play therapists typically collaborate with parents and other professionals to support a child's progress?

Child play therapists often work closely with parents, teachers, and other mental health professionals to create a holistic support system for the child. Therapists may hold regular meetings with caregivers to discuss observations, progress, and strategies to reinforce therapeutic goals at home and in school settings. Collaboration ensures consistency and helps identify any external factors affecting the child's well-being, making it a crucial aspect of achieving effective outcomes in play therapy. Open communication and teamwork are encouraged to maximize the child's development and emotional health.

What is the difference between Child Play Therapy vs Child Psychologist?

AspectChild Play TherapyChild Psychologist
CredentialsRegistered Play Therapist, certification in play therapyDoctorate in Psychology (Ph.D. or Psy.D.), licensure as a psychologist
Work EnvironmentPrivate practice, clinics, schools, hospitalsPrivate practice, hospitals, schools, research settings
FocusUsing play to address emotional and behavioral issuesComprehensive psychological assessment and therapy
Common UsageOften sought for young children needing expressive therapyBroader scope including diagnosis, assessment, and therapy for all ages

Child Play Therapy specializes in using play-based techniques to help children express emotions and resolve issues, often requiring specific certifications. Child Psychologists have a broader role, including assessments and therapy for various age groups, with advanced degrees and licensure. Both roles are vital in mental health care but differ in scope and credentials.

Is child play therapy in high demand?

Child play therapy is in increasing demand as awareness of mental health and developmental support for children grows. Licensed play therapists are often needed in schools, clinics, and private practices, with employment opportunities expanding alongside the recognition of early intervention benefits.

What education do you need to be a child play therapist?

To become a child play therapist, individuals typically need a bachelor's degree in psychology, social work, or a related field, followed by a master's degree in play therapy, counseling, or therapy. Certification from a recognized play therapy organization and supervised clinical experience are also usually required to practice professionally.
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Child Play Therapy jobs near you

Child Play Therapist

Trusted Results Therapy Group LLC

Myrtle Beach, SC • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

Child Play Therapist Trusted Results Therapy Group | South Carolina
About Us Trusted Results Therapy Group is a growing mental health practice dedicated to delivering compassionate, evidence-based care to individuals and families. We provide therapeutic services across South Carolina, with a focus on quality care, collaboration, and clinical growth.
Position Overview We are seeking a Registered Play Therapist (RPT) or play therapy-trained clinician to join our team in a dedicated child and family role. This position is built for a therapist whose clinical identity centers on play therapy - someone who is credentialed or actively pursuing RPT designation and who is passionate about serving young children ages 1-13. You will carry a full-time equivalent caseload composed primarily of child and family clients, practicing within a supportive, autonomy-driven environment with full administrative backing.
Responsibilities
  • Deliver play therapy as the primary treatment modality for children ages 1-13
  • Provide parent and caregiver consultation and family sessions to reinforce therapeutic progress
  • Conduct developmental and clinical assessments and create individualized treatment plans
  • Maintain accurate, ethical, and timely documentation in the electronic health record
  • Collaborate with schools, pediatricians, and community providers as part of a whole-child care approach
  • Participate in supervision (if applicable), team meetings, and continuing education

Requirements
  • Master's or Doctoral degree in Counseling, Social Work, Psychology, or a related field
  • Active licensure in South Carolina (LPC, LMFT, LISW-CP, LMSW, LPC-A, or LP)
  • RPT credential or active pursuit of RPT designation through the Association for Play Therapy
  • Demonstrated experience providing play therapy to children ages 1-13
  • Commitment to a full-time equivalent caseload with a child-focused population
  • Strong clinical documentation skills

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with Child-Centered Play Therapy (CCPT), Theraplay, PCIT, Filial Therapy, or sand tray
  • Background working with early childhood trauma, attachment disruption, developmental delays, or behavioral concerns
  • Credentialed with Medicaid or private insurance panels
  • Bilingual (Spanish/English) a plus

What We Offer
  • Competitive compensation based on experience and licensure
  • Hybrid flexibility: telehealth and in-person sessions
  • Clinical supervision and support (if needed for licensure)
  • Administrative support to handle scheduling, billing, and credentialing
  • Opportunities for advancement and leadership roles
  • A collaborative and inclusive team culture

Job Type: Full-Time Pay: Based on Experience Expected Hours: Full-time equivalent (minimum 25 client hours per week) Schedule: Flexible

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