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Entry Level Play Therapist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Action Behavior Centers

$17 - $22.50/hr

What you will be doing as a Behavior Therapist: · Yearly tenure bonus in addition to regular pay ... Bending over to pick up toys and ensuring the play spaces are tidy, organized, and conducive to a ...

Therapy From the Heart

Occupational Therapist

Beverly, MA · On-site

$70K - $100K/yr

As an Occupational Therapist on a medium-sized team of 6-15 therapists, you will play a vital role ... * Entry-level experience in occupational therapy * Bachelor's or Master's degree in Occupational ...

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Entry Level Play Therapist information

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How much do entry level play therapist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level play therapist in the United States is $27.35, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.36 and $31.01 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level play therapist?

Entry level play therapists are professionals who use play-based techniques to help children express their feelings, develop problem-solving skills, and cope with difficult emotions or experiences. They typically work under supervision as they gain experience and may be recent graduates or individuals working toward full licensure. Entry level play therapists often work in schools, mental health clinics, or private practices, assisting children with behavioral, emotional, or developmental challenges. Their role involves establishing a safe environment where children can communicate through play, which is a natural medium for expression at a young age.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level play therapists when working with children in a clinical setting?

Entry-level play therapists often encounter challenges such as building trust and rapport with children who may be reluctant or anxious in a therapeutic environment. Additionally, they may need to adapt their approach to suit children from diverse backgrounds or with varying developmental needs. Managing expectations of parents and collaborating effectively with other professionals, such as teachers and psychologists, can also be demanding. Over time, therapists develop stronger communication and observation skills, which help them navigate these challenges more confidently.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level play therapist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Play Therapist, you need foundational knowledge in child development, counseling, and psychology, typically supported by a relevant bachelor's or master's degree and state licensure or registration. Familiarity with therapeutic play techniques, assessment tools, and documentation systems like case management software is also important. Strong soft skills such as empathy, patience, and effective communication with children and families help build trust and facilitate therapeutic progress. These combined skills ensure you can create a safe environment and deliver effective interventions that support children's emotional and social development.

What is the difference between Entry Level Play Therapist vs Child Psychologist?

AspectEntry Level Play TherapistChild Psychologist
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in psychology, child development, or related field; some roles may require certificationDoctoral degree (Ph.D. or Psy.D.) in psychology; licensure required
Work EnvironmentClinics, schools, hospitals, private practicePrivate practice, hospitals, clinics, research settings
Industry UsageEntry-level roles in mental health and child therapy servicesAdvanced clinical and research roles in child mental health

Entry Level Play Therapists typically hold a bachelor's degree and work under supervision in various child-focused settings, focusing on play-based interventions. Child Psychologists usually have a doctoral degree and provide comprehensive psychological assessments, therapy, and research. The main difference lies in education level, scope of practice, and responsibilities, with Child Psychologists having more advanced training and autonomy.

Is play therapy in high demand?

Play therapy is increasingly in demand as mental health awareness and recognition of childhood emotional needs grow. Entry-level play therapists can find opportunities in schools, clinics, and private practices, often requiring certification and strong interpersonal skills. The field is expected to expand as more organizations prioritize early mental health intervention.

What does it take to become an entry level play therapist?

To become an entry-level play therapist, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in psychology, social work, or a related field, along with supervised clinical experience working with children. Certification or licensure as a play therapist or mental health professional may be required or preferred, and strong communication, patience, and play-based intervention skills are essential. Some positions may also require background checks and ongoing professional development.

What cities are hiring for Entry Level Play Therapist jobs?

Cities with the most Entry Level Play Therapist job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Play Therapist jobs?

The most popular types of Play Therapist jobs are:

What states have the most Entry Level Play Therapist jobs?

States with the most job openings for Entry Level Play Therapist jobs include:

Entry Level Play Therapist jobs near you

Entry Level Play Based Behavior Therapist

Cortica - Neurodevelopmental

Los Angeles, CA

$20.87 - $28/hr

Part-time

Retirement

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

Cortica is looking for dedicated, compassionate Behavioral Interventionists to join our growing team and help us design and deliver life-changing care for children with neurodevelopmental differences. At Cortica, we don't just offer jobs; we offer careers with purpose, growth, and support. 

What We Offer: 
 

  • Pay Range: $20.87-$28.00 per hour, based on experience and education.  

  • Thoughtfully Designed Schedules: We offer a predictable schedule with a single, direct rate of pay, including: 

    • Part-time roles with flexible 5-, 3- or 2-day-per-week options. 

    • Opportunities to pick up additional hours on Saturdays  

  • Fully Paid Training & Certification: Kickstart your career with Cortica with a comprehensive 3-week, in-person orientation that includes hands-on training, a Board-Certified Autism Technician (BCAT) exam review, and full coverage of your exam fees. We're invested in your success from day one. 
  • Referral Bonus: Earn between $250-$500 for successful referrals. 
  • Cell Phone Stipend: Stay connected with support from us. 
  • Paid Drive Time and Mileage Reimbursement: We value your time on the road and include toll reimbursement in select areas. 
  • 401(k) with Company Matching: Secure your future with our generous plan. 
  • Ongoing Professional Development: Access continuous training through in-person and online opportunities. 
  • Supportive Environment: Collaborate with and receive expert coaching from Lead BTs, ABA Assistant Supervisors, and ABA Supervisors who champion your growth. 
  • Career Advancement: Opportunities to grow your career by advancing to a BCBA role, ascending the Behavior Technician Clinical Ladder, or serving in a corporate support role.  
  • Learn from Experts in Other Fields: Partner with BCBAs and experts in speech-language therapy, music therapy, occupational therapy, and physical therapy as well as counselors, pediatricians, neurologists, and nurse practitioners. 

Your Impact & Responsibilities: 
 

  • Provide 1:1 and group behavior-analytic services to children with autism and other neurodevelopmental differences. 
  • Implement positive behavior strategies developed with your BCBA. 
  • Use evidence-based practices to create meaningful progress for families. 
  • Document session data to track and support treatment goals. 
  • Collaborate closely with families and supervisors to build supportive environments. 
  • Follow Cortica's crisis protocols, including de-escalation and mandated reporting. 

Who We're Looking For:  
 

  • Experience working with children (experience with autism is a plus!). 
  • High School or equivalent, bachelor's or master's degree. 
  • Willingness to obtain your BCAT credential within 90 days of your start date (We provide all training!). 
  • Ability to consistently travel between client sites within a 30-40-minute radius using reliable transportation. 
  • Tech-savvy with EMR systems and Microsoft Office tools. 

Our Inclusive Culture:  
 

  • Transdisciplinary Approach: Collaborate with experts in various fields to care for the whole child. 
  • Collaborative Process: Develop individualized care plans alongside families and clinicians. 
  • Strength-Based, Neurodiversity-Affirming Model: Focus on building on each child's unique strengths rather than emphasizing deficits. 

Join Cortica's team and make a meaningful impact by applying a strength-based, neurodiversity-affirming ABA therapy model. Help children recognize and build on their unique abilities, fostering positive relationships and skills that translate across home, school, and community settings. Be part of a progressive approach that combines neuroscience and developmental models to empower each child to thrive. 

Ready to make a difference? Apply today! 

Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE). For more details, visit the full job description here. 
 

Behavioral Health Center of Excellence (BHCOE) Accredited 2024 | America's Greatest Midsize Workplaces 2025 Newsweek | Great Place to Work Certified 2025 | Glassdoor 4.3 Rating 2025 | Indeed 4.1 Rating 2025 

Privacy Notice 
HYPERLINK "https://corticacare.com/privacy-policy"Cortica is committed to protecting your personal information in compliance with applicable federal and state laws. Please review our Privacy Notice to understand how your data is collected, used, and protected. 

Fair Chance Ordinance Compliance 
Cortica is committed to fair hiring practices. Qualified candidates with criminal histories and/or driving violations will be considered and are not automatically disqualified from employment, consistent with applicable federal law, the California Fair Chance Act, and local ordinances. 

Driving Requirement 
This position requires the successful completion of a post-offer background check and a motor vehicle report review. 

E-Verify Participation 
This employer participates in E-Verify. Click here to view the E-Verify Poster and your Right to Work. 
Este empleador participa en E-Verify. Este empleador participa en E-Verify. Haga clic aqui para ver el cartel de E-Verify y su derecho a trabajar. 


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