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Play Therapy Intern Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

... and play therapy. To ensure a well-rounded clinical team we staff each Pillars location with ... Whether you are a newly licensed clinician or an intern, we have created an organization that has ...

Play Therapy Intern information

What is a play therapy intern?

Play Therapy Interns are graduate students or early-career professionals who are undergoing supervised training in play therapy, a therapeutic approach that uses play to help children express and process their feelings. These interns often work under the guidance of a licensed play therapist to develop clinical skills, gain hands-on experience, and fulfill requirements for certification or licensure. Their responsibilities may include conducting play therapy sessions, maintaining case notes, and participating in supervision and training. Through this internship, they learn to use play as a medium to support children's emotional, social, and behavioral growth.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a play therapy intern?

To thrive as a Play Therapy Intern, you need a foundational understanding of child development, therapeutic techniques, and ideally be enrolled in or have completed relevant coursework in psychology or counseling. Familiarity with play therapy tools, session documentation systems, and possibly pursuing certification through organizations like the Association for Play Therapy are valuable assets. Strong interpersonal skills, patience, and the ability to build rapport with children and families are crucial soft skills in this role. These competencies are essential for creating a safe, supportive environment that fosters healing and growth in young clients.

What kind of supervision and support can a play therapy intern expect during their internship?

As a Play Therapy Intern, you will typically work under the close supervision of a licensed play therapist or a clinical supervisor experienced in child therapy. Regular supervision sessions—often weekly—are provided to review your cases, discuss therapeutic techniques, and address any challenges you encounter with clients. Interns are encouraged to participate in team meetings, collaborate with other mental health professionals, and seek feedback to enhance their skills. This supportive structure ensures you gain hands-on experience while maintaining professional and ethical standards in your practice.

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

AspectPlay Therapy InternPlay Therapist
CredentialsTypically pursuing or holding a relevant graduate degree; supervised internshipLicensed or certified with specific credentials (e.g., Registered Play Therapist)
Work EnvironmentInternship settings, clinics, schools under supervisionIndependent practice, clinics, hospitals, schools
Employer & IndustryEducational institutions, mental health clinics, non-profitsPrivate practices, healthcare facilities, schools
Common Search/ComparisonYesNo

The main difference between a Play Therapy Intern and a Play Therapist lies in experience, credentials, and independence. Interns are in training, working under supervision, while Play Therapists are fully credentialed professionals providing independent therapy services.

Is play therapy in high demand?

Play therapy intern positions are increasingly in demand as mental health awareness and child therapy services grow. Employers seek candidates with relevant training, certification, and experience working with children in clinical or educational settings.

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

The most popular types of Play Therapy jobs in Indiana are:

Infographic showing various Play Therapy Intern job openings in Indiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Internship, and 50% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Internship

Re-posted 15 days ago


Job description

Description

Description of Facility: Opportunities for Positive Growth, Inc. (OPG) is a human service agency committed to providing meaningful and dignified support to individuals with developmental disabilities focusing on a person's skill development to improve the individual's quality of life. We are certified through The Division of Disability, Aging and Rehabilitation Services (DDARS), and The Bureau of Disabilities Services (BDS) for the state to provide specific services for people with developmental disabilities. OPG has also received the Indianapolis Top Workplaces Award many years in a row as well as a USA Today top workplace three years in a row. Additionally, we have been granted a Person-Centered with Distinction accreditation from the Council on Quality and Leadership. 


Professional staff: OPG employs 28 Board-Certified Music Therapists holding sessions in Fishers, Kokomo, Lafayette, and Marion facilities and surrounding areas. 


Internship Experience: The internship will be primarily made up of one-on-one sessions with a possibility of up to four group sessions per week. An OPG music therapist will be in the room during every Medicaid waiver session led by the intern. In addition to sessions, the intern will be responsible for session plans, quarterly/annual paperwork, a research paper on a topic of their interest and a legacy project of their choosing.


Requirements: In addition to a resume and application, we will need a cover letter, 2 letters of recommendation, 1 letter of eligibility (this can be included in a recommendation letter) and official school transcript(s) (a copy is fine).


Educational Programs: Interns will have the opportunity to attend the Association for Indiana Music Therapy (AIMT) meetings, utilize our online educational platform Relias and attend various workshops offered by OPG.


Stipend/Housing: OPG is not able to provide interns with a stipend at this time. Interns will need to have a reliable car. Mileage reimbursement will be provided for any required driving outside traveling to the office. A list of area apartments will be provided upon request. Liability insurance must be in place before the first day of the internship. A background check will be completed prior to the start of the internship, paid for by OPG. 


Locations: We have three facilities with six-month-long internship placements. We are currently interviewing candidates for the following start date(s) and location(s):

  • July 2026-October 2026 - Fishers, IN
  • July 2026-October 2026 - Lafayette/Marion, IN
  • January-June 2027 - All areas (Fishers, Lafayette, Kokomo, Marion, IN)

Requirements

Entry Level Requirements: A basic understanding of developmental disabilities and the ability to play music utilizing I, IV, and V chords in at least four keys on both piano and guitar is required. A music skills assessment will be given during the on-site interview as well as a discussion about past experience with the population. The intern should be self-motivated and have excellent written and verbal communication skills.