Educational Play Therapist

Placements24; Benoni; Hybrid; ZAR 180,000 - 320,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a compassionate Educational Play Therapist for our client in Benoni, Gauteng. You will support children facing emotional, behavioral, or developmental challenges through therapeutic play, helping them express themselves and develop coping skills.

The role requires a Master\'s degree in Play Therapy (or related field), eligibility for Play Therapist certification, and demonstrated experience with diverse child populations.

Qualifications

• Master's degree or higher in Play Therapy, Child Psychology, Counseling, or related field.
• Certification or eligibility for Play Therapist certification (e.g., APT).
• Proven experience providing play therapy to children with diverse needs.
• Strong knowledge of child development and trauma-informed care.

Responsibilities

• Conduct play therapy sessions with children individually and in groups.
• Assess emotional, behavioral, and developmental needs through observation and interaction.
• Develop and implement individualized play therapy treatment plans.
• Collaborate with parents/guardians and other professionals to coordinate care.

Skills

Empathy

Child-focused

Communication

Team collaboration

Education

Master's degree in Play Therapy

Play Therapist certification eligibility

Tools

Play therapy techniques

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a specialized child development clinic in Benoni , is seeking a compassionate and skilled Educational Play Therapist . This role is dedicated to supporting children facing emotional, behavioral, or developmental challenges through therapeutic play interventions. The successful candidate will utilize play as a primary medium to help children express themselves, process difficult experiences, and develop coping mechanisms. This position requires a deep understanding of child psychology, play therapy techniques, and a creative approach to intervention within the Gauteng area. Join a multidisciplinary team committed to providing holistic support for children and families. This role offers a unique opportunity to make a profound difference in the lives of young individuals.

Key Responsibilities

• Conducting play therapy sessions with children individually and in groups.
• Assessing children's emotional, behavioral, and developmental needs through observation and interaction.
• Developing and implementing individualized play therapy treatment plans.
• Utilizing various play modalities (e.g., art, sand tray, role-playing) to facilitate therapeutic goals.
• Building a safe, trusting, and therapeutic relationship with each child.
• Collaborating with parents/guardians to support the child's progress and provide guidance.
• Working with other professionals (teachers, psychologists, doctors) to coordinate care.
• Maintaining accurate and confidential client records and progress notes.
• Staying current with research and best practices in play therapy and child development.
• Educating families and caregivers on the benefits and application of play-based interventions.
• Advocating for the needs of the children within the community and educational settings.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Play Therapy, Child Psychology, Counseling, or a related field.
• Certification or eligibility for certification as a Play Therapist (e.g., APT).
• Proven experience in providing play therapy services to children of various ages and with diverse needs.
• Strong knowledge of child development, attachment theory, and trauma-informed care.
• Excellent clinical skills in assessment and treatment planning.
• Proficiency in a range of play therapy techniques and approaches.
• Strong communication, empathy, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team.
• Commitment to ethical practice and professional development.
• Background check and professional liability insurance.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary and benefits package, commensurate with experience and qualifications. This role provides opportunities for continuous professional development, including workshops and training in advanced play therapy techniques. You will be part of a supportive and collaborative team environment, working with dedicated professionals. Access to resources and ongoing supervision will be provided to support your practice. This is an excellent opportunity for career growth in a specialized therapeutic field.