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Play Therapy Assistant Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

As a Physical Therapist or PTA, you will play a critical role in achieving this mission. About the Role: As a Physical Therapist or PTA on our team, you will have the opportunity to make a meaningful ...

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Play Therapy Assistant information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$8

$24

$45

How much do play therapy assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for play therapy assistant in Rochester, NY is $24.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.18 and $30.11 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 therapy in high demand?

Play therapy assistant roles are increasingly in demand as awareness of mental health and child development grows. The need for qualified professionals in settings such as schools, clinics, and private practices contributes to steady job opportunities in this field.

What is a play therapy assistant?

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.

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 are popular job titles related to Play Therapy Assistant jobs in Rochester, NY?

For Play Therapy Assistant jobs in Rochester, NY, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for Play Therapy Assistant jobs?

Cities near Rochester, NY with the most Play Therapy Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Play Therapy Assistant job openings in Rochester, NY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,880 per year, or $24.9 per hour.

$50K - $60K/yr

Full-time, Part-time

Re-posted 6 days ago


Job description

Description

Reports to: Supervising Clinician
Location: Rochester Hearing & Speech Center and community-based settings (homes, preschools, daycares, teletherapy)
Schedule: Full-Time, Part-Time, or Time As Reported (TAR)
Status: Exempt / Salaried
Pay Range: $50,000 - $60,000 annually (final offer depends on geographic location, job-related knowledge, skills, experience, and employment status; good-faith estimate in compliance with NYS Pay Transparency Law)


Do you love working with kids? WE LOVE KIDS!
New graduate? WE WANT YOU!
Been in the field a long time and ready for something new? WE WANT YOU!

We offer flexible scheduling on your terms, with the ability to build your own caseload. Summers are yours - with the option to work Time as Reported at your own pace if you choose.

Clinical and itinerant positions are available.
Mileage reimbursement is provided for part-time and full-time salaried employees.
Mentorship is available and encouraged.

If you're passionate about helping children thrive and want flexibility, support, and choice in how you work - this is the place for you.

Job Summary

We are seeking a dedicated and compassionate Pediatric Physical Therapist to provide early intervention services for infants, toddlers, and preschool-aged children (birth to 5 years) with developmental delays, physical disabilities, or other conditions affecting gross motor development, functional mobility, coordination, gait, and play skills. This role involves collaboration with families, caregivers, educators, and a multidisciplinary team in a supportive, team-based environment to promote each child's optimal growth and participation.

Requirements

Key Responsibilities

Conduct developmental assessments to evaluate gross motor function, posture, strength, balance, and mobility in infants and young children

Develop and implement individualized treatment plans (IFSPs/IEPs) in collaboration with families and multidisciplinary teams, including educators, speech therapists, occupational therapists, and early childhood specialists

Provide direct physical therapy services in natural environments such as homes, daycares, or preschools, using developmentally appropriate, play-based strategies

Address areas of delay such as gross motor skills, motor planning, coordination, motor sequencing, reflex integration, posture, range of motion deficits, and atypical movement patterns

Coach and educate caregivers and teachers on therapeutic techniques and strategies to integrate into daily routines

Monitor and document progress, adjusting interventions as needed based on child development and family goals

Participate in multidisciplinary team meetings, transition planning, case conferences, and service coordination

Maintain accurate documentation, progress notes, and reports in accordance with agency and state regulations

Advocate for the needs of the child and family within educational and healthcare systems

Stay current with best practices in pediatric physical therapy and early childhood development

Qualifications

Doctorate or Master's degree in Physical Therapy from an accredited program

Current New York State license to practice Physical Therapy

Experience working with infants, toddlers, and preschool-aged children, preferably in early intervention or preschool settings (new graduates welcome)

Strong understanding of child development, family-centered care, and IDEA Part C/Part B services

Excellent communication, collaboration, and organizational skills

Valid driver's license and reliable transportation

Work Environment

Services may be provided in a variety of settings: home, community, or center-based

Travel required for home visits or community-based services

Physical Requirements

Ability to sit, stand, and engage in physical play or therapy as needed

Must be able to lift and carry therapy materials and assist with mobility needs of children

Acknowledgment

By signing the electronic link provided during the hiring process, you acknowledge and understand this job description.

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement

Rochester Hearing & Speech Center is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We comply with all applicable federal, state, and local fair employment practices laws and strictly prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind. Employment decisions are based on business needs, job requirements, and individual qualifications, without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, national origin, disability, genetic predisposition or carrier status, military status, marital status, domestic violence victim status, or any other status protected under New York State and federal law.