Graduate Certificate in Play Therapy

The Graduate Certificate in Play Therapy trains students to intervene therapeutically with children by using a comprehensive multimodal approach. It is unique in that the program offers a practical and hands-on approach to the profession of play therapy. Students work directly with children during their training, participating in supervised play therapy practice sessions. Many programs offer only one or two courses to prepare clinicians to work with children. Those working in the field with children who have experienced complex psychosocial issues often feel overwhelmed and ill-prepared for the reality of the work. This Graduate Certificate was created to address this need and to provide professionals and students with five core courses that offer concrete, evidence-based, foundational hands-on training in play therapy.This graduate certificate is suitable for professionals working in related fields such as psychology, social work, education and creative arts therapists seeking to increase their skill level and to develop new skills through continuing education. Courses are taught in one-week intensives (one course per week) running from May to June. Students spend four days in class and Friday is spent as a reflection day or reading day.

Bachelor's degree in Psychology, Social Work, Youth Work, Child Studies, Early Childhood and Elementary Education, Teaching and other related fields in the provision of mental health or educational services, or equivalent.Applicants lacking a relevant undergraduate degree but able to demonstrate evidence of a professional background, including experience working with children in emotional distress within health, social or educational services may be considered for admission on a case by case basis.