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Play Therapy Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Madison Pointe

Physical Therapy Assistant

New Port Richey, FL · 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 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.

Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA)

Connect ABA + Therapy

Newark, NJ

$60 - $65/hr

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

Company Overview:

Join our team dedicated to providing exceptional pediatric therapy services and supporting children in reaching their full potential. As a Pediatric Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) within our facility-based setting, you will play a pivotal role in assisting licensed therapists in implementing individualized treatment plans and helping children achieve their therapy goals.

Position Overview: We are seeking a compassionate and enthusiastic Pediatric Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) to join our dynamic therapy team. The successful candidate will have a passion for working with children and families, assisting in the delivery of evidence-based occupational therapy services to promote children's participation in meaningful activities and enhance their overall development and independence. The Pediatric COTA will collaborate closely with occupational therapists and other healthcare professionals to create a supportive and nurturing environment for pediatric patients.

Responsibilities:

  • Provide hands-on therapeutic interventions and activities to enhance children's fine motor skills, visual-motor integration, sensory processing, and self-regulation.
  • Engage children in therapeutic play activities and games to promote social interaction, communication, and cognitive development.
  • Utilize specialized equipment and assistive devices to facilitate children's independence and participation in daily activities, school tasks, and recreational pursuits.
  • Collaborate with families, caregivers, and educational teams to integrate therapy goals into children's daily routines and support carryover of skills at home and in community settings.
  • Maintain accurate documentation of therapy sessions, progress notes, and treatment outcomes in compliance with regulatory and professional standards.
  • Communicate effectively with parents, caregivers, and interdisciplinary team members to provide updates on children's progress and coordinate care.
  •  

Qualifications:

  • Associate's degree from an accredited Occupational Therapy Assistant program.
  • Current certification as a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) issued by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT).
  • State licensure or eligibility for licensure as a COTA in the state of practice.

Benefits:

  • $60-65/Hr

Equal Opportunity Employer: We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace and welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds.

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