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Play Therapy Intern Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Minnetonka - Family Place Internship

Minnetonka, MN · On-site

$15.75 - $20.50/hr

Summer block intern placements that are 40 hours/5 days per week are also considered.In the day ... Learn and participate in play therapy techniques. * Assist in planning and implementing therapeutic ...

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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.
More about Play Therapy Intern jobs

What cities are hiring for Play Therapy Intern jobs?

Cities with the most Play Therapy Intern 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 Intern jobs?

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

Infographic showing various Play Therapy Intern job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution.

Counseling Intern, Graduate Level (EPS)

MHC Mental Health Cooperative, Inc.

Nashville, TN • On-site

$14.50 - $18.75/hr

Other

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

About Mental Health Cooperative

Mental Health Cooperative, Inc. (MHC) was formed in 1993 to serve individuals with severe and persistent mental illness. Since then, we have expanded our services to children and adolescents with severe emotional disorders across Middle and East Tennessee. Our sole purpose is to support and treat those challenged with serious mental illness and poverty. Although based out of Nashville, we serve several communities across middle and East Tennessee with satellite offices in Antioch, Gallatin, Dickson, Columbia, Cleveland, Murfreesboro, Clarksville, Cookeville, Chattanooga, and Memphis.

Responsibilities

Interns will carry a small caseload and provide point‑of‑care psychotherapy to clients of various ages using therapeutic modalities like TF‑CBT, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, CBT, DBT, and play therapy. Interns will participate in the client’s treatment team, collaborating with other departments throughout the agency. Additionally, interns will conduct client assessments, treatment and discharge planning, and maintain documentation.

Many clients have experienced grief and loss, depression, anxiety, and trauma. MHC works primarily with clients who are uninsured or have TennCare, providing them the same treatment and care offered to others.

Interns will be allowed to carry a small caseload of clients on their own while working with their field supervisor.

Qualifications

Interns must be master’s level students in a social work, counseling, or psychology program. The internship requires a two‑semester commitment. MHC can accommodate up to five interns in our Therapy department.

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