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Play Therapy Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Physical Therapy Assistant

Placentia, CA · On-site

$29.50 - $39/hr

As a Physical Therapy Assistant, you will play an essential role in supporting patients, families, and care teams by delivering high-quality services with compassion, professionalism, and integrity.

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Play Therapy Assistant information

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$8

$26

$48

How much do play therapy assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for play therapy assistant in the United States is $26.69, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $32.21 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Play Therapy Assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Play Therapy Assistant, you need a background in child development or psychology, often supported by relevant coursework or certification in play therapy techniques. Familiarity with play therapy tools, record-keeping systems, and child observation methods is typically required. Strong soft skills include patience, creativity, and effective communication with both children and multidisciplinary teams. These skills ensure that therapeutic interventions are delivered safely and effectively, fostering positive outcomes for children's emotional and social development.

Is Play Therapist a good career?

A play therapist is a mental health professional who uses play-based techniques to help children express emotions and address behavioral issues. The role often requires specialized training, certification, and strong communication skills, and it can be a rewarding career for those interested in child development and therapy. Job prospects depend on demand in mental health services and the ability to work in clinical or educational settings.

What is the role of a therapy assistant?

A play therapy assistant supports licensed therapists by preparing therapy materials, observing and documenting children's progress, and helping facilitate therapeutic activities. They often work in clinical or educational settings and may require training in child development or play therapy techniques. Their role helps ensure effective delivery of therapy sessions and supports children's emotional and social development.

What are Play Therapy Assistants?

Play Therapy Assistants are professionals who support licensed play therapists in helping children express their feelings and resolve psychological challenges through play. They help set up play environments, assist in therapy sessions, and observe children's behavior under the guidance of a qualified therapist. Their role is crucial in making children feel safe and engaged, while ensuring therapy sessions run smoothly. Play Therapy Assistants often work in schools, clinics, or private practices and may also help with administrative tasks related to therapy.

What are some common challenges faced by Play Therapy Assistants, and how can they be managed?

Play Therapy Assistants often work with children who may have emotional, behavioral, or developmental difficulties, which can present unique challenges. Managing strong emotions, building trust with clients, and maintaining professional boundaries are frequent hurdles. To address these, assistants benefit from ongoing supervision, clear communication with the lead therapist, and regular training in trauma-informed care. Collaborating closely with therapists, families, and other support professionals also helps ensure the best outcomes for each child.

How much do play therapists make?

Play therapy assistants in Pennsylvania typically earn between $15 and $20 per hour, depending on experience, education, and the setting. Salaries can vary based on the employer, location, and whether the role is full-time or part-time, with some positions offering additional benefits or opportunities for certification advancement.

What is the difference between Play Therapy Assistant vs Play Therapist?

AspectPlay Therapy AssistantPlay Therapist
CredentialsCertificate or diploma in play therapy support rolesMaster's degree or higher in psychology, counseling, or play therapy
Work EnvironmentAssist in therapy sessions, support children under supervisionConducts individual therapy sessions, develops treatment plans
Employer & IndustrySchools, clinics, mental health centersPrivate practices, clinics, hospitals

The Play Therapy Assistant typically supports licensed play therapists by preparing materials and assisting during sessions, requiring relevant certifications. Play Therapists are licensed professionals who lead therapy sessions and develop treatment strategies. Both roles work in similar environments but differ in responsibilities and qualifications.

What is the job called when you work with kids with autism?

A Play Therapy Assistant working with children with autism typically supports therapeutic activities and interventions under supervision. They may assist in implementing behavior plans, use sensory tools, and help create a supportive environment for development. Certification or training in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and play therapy techniques can be beneficial.
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Play Therapy Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Play Therapy Assistant job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 53% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 25% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,508 per year, or $26.7 per hour.
School Based Occupational Therapy Assistant

School Based Occupational Therapy Assistant

Project Play Therapy

Nashville, TN

$27.50 - $36.75/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

Be Part of Our Village

The COTA position is a direct impact position at Project Play Therapy that plays a pivotal role in helping students reach their fullest potential by facilitating quality service delivery. In this position, you will change the game for children with disabilities and developmental delays by providing occupational therapy and collaborating with interdisciplinary team members in an energetic and fun school environment. Be a part of a team that is making a substantial impact on the community!

The ideal candidate for this position would use passion, creativity, problem solving, and collaboration to engage with students, parents/guardians, and other service providers. In this position you will have the opportunity to build relationships across Project Play Therapy's team of professionals through regular collaboration and team gatherings, and continue your growth in evidence-based practice through roundtables and continuing education opportunities.  In a work environment that prioritizes loving our village, you will discover the opportunity to grow professionally alongside a young, vibrant company, and to be energized by the passionate pursuit of our vision! This position reports directly to the Lead Occupational Therapist.

Empower Your Skills
  • Build relationships with clients, families, and team members to establish rapport and trust 
  • Establish and maintain excellent, game-changing service delivery, including via screenings, evaluations, case management, and direct therapy
  • Assess client needs and collect data to show the impact of services and help clients reach their goals
  • Contribute to a team environment that values collaboration, growth, and joy
Embrace the Perks
  • Salaried or full time hourly position (ask us about part-time options, too!)
  • Paid documentation time
  • 401(k) match
  • PTO and paid holidays
  • Access to health insurance, dental insurance, and vision insurance
  • Access to short term disability
  • CEU coverage 
  • Online resources and therapy activities
  • Mentorship and ongoing trainings/support
  • Technology available
  • Mileage reimbursement available depending on assignment
Candidate Qualifications
  • Bachelor's Degree in Occupational Therapy Assistant
  • Tennessee State License and NBCOT License 
  • Demonstrates strong organization and communication skills, a positive attitude, and the belief that all children can reach their fullest potential with the right supports
  • Believes collaboration, innovation, fun, and a growth mindset are foundational to success

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