Understanding how to become a play therapist involves earning a relevant undergraduate degree, gaining experience with children, and obtaining a postgraduate qualification in play therapy. Play therapy is a therapeutic approach that allows children to express their emotions, process their experiences, and develop coping strategies through play with toys, games, and other creative activities. The main purpose of play therapy is to help children who have been exposed to trauma and who face emotional, behavioural, or developmental challenges. 

Play and non-verbal communication can benefit children who are too young to articulate their feelings verbally. Professionals who use play therapy can help children communicate their emotions without relying on spoken words. If you are interested in working with children and have a keen interest in psychology or counselling, a career as a play therapist can be very rewarding. This guide outlines how to become a play therapist in the UK, along with the qualifications and skills needed to succeed.

What Does a Play Therapist Do?

Play therapists work with children (and sometimes adolescents) to help them overcome emotional and psychological difficulties. Children can explore their feelings, express themselves through play, and develop more adaptive behaviours. Key responsibilities of a play therapist include:

• Conducting Assessments: Using observations during play sessions, play therapists not only provide insight into the child’s emotional and psychological needs but also assist in uncovering the internal struggles and reasons behind the child’s emotional and behavioural difficulties.

• Assisting in Play Therapy Sessions: The therapist encourages the child to engage in playful activities, such as role play, drawing, building, or using toys to express their thoughts and feelings in a safe space. The therapist employs therapeutic play techniques to help the child explore their feelings and experiences.
• Creating Treatment Plans: They develop a customised treatment plan for the child based on the assessment. This may include specific play techniques to alleviate trauma, address anxiety or behavioural problems, or tackle other issues.
• Monitoring Progress: Play therapists monitor the child’s progress during therapy and modify the treatment plan if necessary. Depending on the complexity of the issues, they may work with the child over several sessions.
• Collaborating with Parents and Caregivers: Therapists engage with parents, caregivers, and others involved in the child’s care, such as teachers or social workers, modelling best-practice techniques and offering feedback and guidance to help the child in other settings.
• Documenting Sessions and Outcomes: A play therapist documents every session in detail, including observations, interventions utilised, and positive changes in the child. This is done to maintain a record of therapy progress and guide upcoming sessions.

Average Play Therapist Salary in the UK

Salaries for play therapists in the UK typically range from £25,000 to £35,000 per year, depending on experience and whether you work in a school, a healthcare setting, or for a charity.

For mid-level therapists with experience, salaries can range between £35,000 and £45,000 per year. Those working in specialised settings or in senior roles, such as supervising other therapists or running their own practices, can earn over £50,000. Play therapists who work independently and offer private sessions often set their own prices, which generally fall within the £40-£70 per hour range.

Key Skills for a Successful Play Therapist

To be an effective play therapist, you must combine psychological knowledge with empathy and communication skills. Important skills required for play therapist include:

• Empathy and Compassion: Working closely with children who may have been traumatised or are suffering emotionally requires a great deal of empathy and compassion. These children often feel misunderstood, making it crucial for therapists to create a safe space for them to express their feelings. Building this trust can take time and effort, but it is essential for effective therapy. A compassionate approach helps children feel valued and heard.
• Good Communication: Play therapists must be effective communicators with both children and adults, including parents and other professionals. Clear explanations of the therapeutic process help foster understanding and collaboration. This communication is vital for building a supportive network around the child. Effective dialogue ensures that everyone involved is on the same page regarding the child’s needs.
• Patience and Tolerance: Children may take time to open up and make progress in therapy, requiring therapists to exercise patience. Each child has their own unique pace for processing feelings, which should be respected. It’s important for therapists to remain supportive and non-judgemental during this process. Allowing children the time they need can lead to more meaningful breakthroughs.
• Child Development Expertise: A strong understanding of child development is essential for play therapists. They must know typical emotional, cognitive, and social milestones to effectively tailor therapy. This knowledge enables therapists to adjust their approaches based on the child’s developmental level. By aligning therapeutic activities with these milestones, therapists can promote healthier emotional growth.
• Creativity and Flexibility: Play therapists utilise creative tools and activities to engage children through play. Flexibility in approach is crucial, as each session may require different methods based on the child’s mood and needs. Creative techniques not only make therapy enjoyable but also encourage deeper emotional exploration. This adaptability enhances the therapeutic experience for the child.
• Observation and Analytical Skills: Strong observation and analytical skills are vital for play therapists to understand children’s behaviour. By closely watching how children play, therapists can gain insights into their emotions and underlying issues. This requires keen attention to detail and the ability to interpret non-verbal cues effectively. Understanding these nuances helps inform the therapeutic approach.
• Boundaries and Ethics: Maintaining professional boundaries and ethics is critical in play therapy. Therapists must avoid personal contact with children or their families outside the therapy room, ensuring a clear separation between professional and personal life. This includes refraining from meetings in cafés, home visits, or sharing contact information. Upholding confidentiality and prioritising the child’s best interests is paramount in all decision-making.

How to Become a Play Therapist in the UK

Play therapy, while a relatively recent addition to the psychotherapy field, has a rich history. To study and practise as a play therapist in the UK, you must complete formal education and specialised training. Here is a summary of the process:

• Earn a Relevant Undergraduate Degree: The first step to becoming a play therapist is to complete a Bachelor’s degree in a related field. Relevant degrees include Psychology, Social Work, Childhood Studies, Counselling, and Education. These degrees provide the foundational knowledge in child development, psychology, and counselling skills necessary for further training as a play therapist.
• Work with Children: Before enrolling in a play therapy training programme, it is highly recommended that you gain experience working with children. This can be achieved by working in a school, nursery, youth service, social care setting, or other mental health environments where direct interaction with children occurs. Practical experience is essential for understanding how to engage with young clients in a therapeutic setting.
• Complete a Postgraduate Play Therapy Qualification: In addition to an undergraduate degree and work experience, a postgraduate diploma or Master’s in Play Therapy is required. Organisations such as APAC and the University of Northampton offer a Postgraduate Diploma in Play Therapy. Professional bodies also accredit the MA in Play Therapy at the University of Leeds Beckett.

These programmes typically last two to three years and include academic coursework and fieldwork. You will learn about therapeutic techniques, child development, and the intricacies of play-based interventions. The programme will likely involve supervised placements where you’ll gain hands-on experience with children in therapy settings.

• Join a Professional Body: After completing your training, you can join an organisation such as the British Association of Play Therapists (BAPT) or Play Therapy UK (PTUK). These professional bodies set standards for play therapists and provide resources for continuing professional development (CPD). Joining and registering with a professional body indicates your commitment to practising ethically.

• Gain Experience Working as a Play Therapist: After qualifying, you can seek work in schools, NHS settings, private practices, charities, or mental health clinics. At the start of your career, you may work as an assistant under supervision and gradually build your skills and confidence. You can also advance to more specialised roles, managing your own caseload or working independently as a self-employed therapist.

• Continuing Professional Development (CPD): The use of play in therapy is a constantly evolving field, so play therapists must engage in continuing professional development throughout their careers. This could involve attending workshops, seminars, or advanced training courses—often provided by professional bodies such as BAPT or PTUK.

Tips for Aspiring Play Therapists

If you’re considering a career as a Play Therapists, here are some tips to help you on your journey:

• Volunteer with Children: Volunteering in youth clubs, schools, community centres, and similar settings provides valuable opportunities to work with children. Engaging in these activities helps you develop practical skills relevant to play therapy. You’ll gain insights into children’s behaviour and needs through direct interaction. This experience can be instrumental in preparing you for a career as a play therapist.
• Cultivate Emotional Resilience: Trauma-informed work, whether with youth who have experienced trauma or those facing emotional challenges, can be quite draining. It’s essential to develop emotional resilience to cope with the demands of this role. Engaging in daily self-care practices helps prevent burnout and maintains your well-being. By prioritising your mental health, you can provide better support to the children you work with.
• Build Strong Relationships with Parents: Parents and other caregivers play a crucial role in the play therapy process. Building trust with family members is essential for fostering a collaborative environment. When parents feel involved and supported, the child is more likely to continue growing after the sessions end. Strong relationships with families can enhance the overall effectiveness of the therapeutic process.

Get Qualified as a Play Therapist 

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why Should You Become a Play Therapist?

Pursuing a career as a play therapist can be highly satisfying for those interested in helping children address emotional or psychological problems. Play therapists significantly contribute to the lives of children by assisting them in finding words to express themselves, developing coping strategies, and working through trauma in a safe and supportive environment.

Is a Career as a Play Therapist Right for You?

This career is best suited for individuals who love working with children and possess a solid understanding of psychology. Patience, empathy, and creativity are essential traits for success in this role. If you enjoy helping children and families navigate challenging emotions and circumstances, play therapy could be a wonderful career path for you.

What Are the Salary Prospects for Play Therapists in the UK?

Entry-level play therapists in the UK earn between £25,000 and £35,000 a year, rising to between £35,000 and £45,000 after a few years of experience. Those in senior or specialised roles can earn over £50,000. Self-employed play therapists typically charge between £40 and £70 per hour.

What Qualifications Are Needed to Become a Play Therapist?

A play therapist must have a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, such as psychology, social work, or childhood studies. This should be followed by a postgraduate qualification in play therapy, such as a diploma or Master’s degree. Additionally, registration with a professional body, such as BAPT or PTUK, is required to legally practise in the UK.

Do You Need Work Experience to Start a Career as a Play Therapist?

Experience working with children is essential before starting your career. A genuine passion for working with children is crucial, along with practical experience in settings like schools, nurseries, youth services, or social care. Many play therapy qualifications may require you to have this experience before beginning your training.

What is the Career Outlook for Play Therapists?

There is a growing need for play therapists as more children struggle with emotions and behaviours that require therapeutic intervention. Play therapists can work in schools, charities, NHS mental health services, private practices, and community organisations. The demand for specialist services, such as trauma therapy and support for children who have been abused, suggests that this career has excellent prospects.

What Are the Career Progression Options for Play Therapists?

Over time, play therapists can advance to become clinical supervisors, lead therapists, or programme managers within mental health or educational settings. They may also choose to enter private practice, start their own businesses, or specialise in areas such as trauma therapy, autism support, or family therapy. Additionally, some may move into teaching or training roles to pass on their skills to the next generation of play therapists.

What Are the Exit Options and Opportunities Beyond Play Therapy?

The skills and knowledge acquired as a play therapist can transfer to other roles, including mental health, social work, counselling, or psychology. Some play therapists transition to child counselling, family therapy, or youth work. Others become teachers or researchers in higher education, focusing on teaching play therapy courses or conducting research in child psychology. Play therapists with experience overseeing cases or teams will be well-positioned for leadership roles in mental health services and charities.