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Play Therapy Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) - 1099 Contractor Speech Savvy Therapy Services ... Family-centered, play-based therapy setting * The opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the ...

Physical Therapy Assistant

New Port Richey, FL ยท On-site

$24.75 - $32.75/hr

As a Physical Therapy Assistant, you will play a critical role in providing skilled Physical therapy to our residents. Your responsibilities will include providing the highest quality of Physical ...

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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 Sep 3, 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 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 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.

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.

Is play therapy in demand?

Play therapy assistant roles are increasingly in demand as mental health awareness and child therapy services grow. Professionals in this field should have relevant certifications and skills in child development and therapeutic techniques to meet the rising need for mental health support for children.
More about Play Therapy Assistant jobs

What cities are hiring for Play Therapy Assistant jobs?

Cities with the most Play Therapy Assistant job openings:

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

The most popular types of Play Therapy jobs are:

What states have the most Play Therapy Assistant jobs?

States with the most job openings for Play Therapy Assistant jobs include:

Infographic showing various Play Therapy Assistant job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $55,508 per year, or $26.7 per hour.

Occupational Therapy Assistant

Shore Acres Care Center

Saint Petersburg, FL โ€ข On-site

$35/hr

Per diem

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Re-posted 20 hours ago


Job description

) Occupational Therapy Assistant
Job Location: St. Petersburg, Florida
Company Name: Shore Acres Care Center
GRAND REOPENING APRIL 2026
Occuptional Therapy Assistant Job Summary:
At Shore Acres Care Center, located in St. Petersburg, FL, we are dedicated to helping our residents maximize their potential and live their lives to the fullest. As an Occupational Therapy Assistant, you will play a critical role in providing skilled occupational therapy to our residents, working closely with our interdisciplinary team to achieve outstanding outcomes. We offer a dynamic and supportive environment, a competitive salary, and a comprehensive benefits package.
Occupational Therapy Assistant Responsibilities:
  • Provide skilled occupational therapy to our residents, including assessment, planning, implementation, and evaluation of treatment programs
  • Develop and maintain effective communication with residents, families, and healthcare team members
  • Maintain accurate and timely documentation and records
  • Participate in quality improvement initiatives and ongoing education and training

Occupational Therapy Assistant Requirements:
  • Valid Florida professional license as an Occupational Therapy Assistant
  • Accepting new and seasoned therapists
  • Must have a degree from an accredited Occupational Therapy Assistant program
  • Must be knowledgeable of PDPM, LTC programming, and OT scope of practice
  • Ability to quickly learn and navigate Net Health and Point Click Care

Perks and Benefits:
  • Competitive hourly rate starting at $35+
  • Paid weekly
  • Flexible schedules
  • Excellent benefits package, including medical, dental, vision insurance, PTO plan, and continuing education allowance
  • Professional license reimbursement and refer a friend bonus
  • Holiday pay

Join Our Team: www.shoreacrescc.com
At Shore Acres Care Center, we take pride in making a difference in the lives of our residents and their families. If you are a motivated and compassionate occupational therapy assistant looking for a dynamic and supportive environment, we encourage you to apply. Occupational Therapy Assistant is Per diem position. Apply now to join our team and start making a difference in the lives of our residents!
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