Part-Time Play Therapy Specialist for Early Years

Placements24; Upington; Hybrid; ZAR 134,000 - 201,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Part-time role

Professional development opportunities

Competitive remuneration

Job summary

Placements24 in Upington, Northern Cape, seeks an Early Years Specialist with a focus on Play Therapy for a part-time role. You will work with children aged 3–7, using play-based methods to address emotional and behavioural needs.

The ideal candidate holds a Master's in Play Therapy or related field, is HPCSA-registered, and brings experience with play-based interventions. Collaboration with families and professionals is essential.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Play Therapy, Child Psychology, Counselling Psychology, or related field with Play Therapy specialization.
• Registered with HPCSA or relevant regulatory body as Play Therapist or Psychologist.
• Proven experience with play-based interventions in young children.
• Strong understanding of child development, attachment theory and trauma-informed care.
• Excellent diagnostic, assessment and therapeutic skills.
• Strong communication, empathy and teamwork to work with families.

Responsibilities

• Conduct assessments of emotional, social, and behavioural needs through observation and interaction.
• Design and implement individualized play therapy plans and materials.
• Facilitate individual and group play therapy sessions to support coping skills.
• Provide guidance to parents/caregivers on supporting emotional development at home.
• Collaborate with teachers, psychologists and social workers for coordinated support.
• Maintain confidential client records including progress notes and treatment plans.
• Stay updated with best practices in play therapy and early intervention.
• Deliver workshops for parents and educators on relevant topics.
• Ensure a safe, confidential therapeutic environment for sessions.
• Advocate for needs of children and families within the centre and community.

Skills

Play Therapy

Child development

Trauma-informed care

Education

Master's degree in Play Therapy or related field

Job description

Placements24 in Upington, Northern Cape, seeks an Early Years Specialist with a focus on Play Therapy for a part-time role. You will work with children aged 3–7, using play-based methods to address emotional and behavioural needs.

The ideal candidate holds a Master's in Play Therapy or related field, is HPCSA-registered, and brings experience with play-based interventions. Collaboration with families and professionals is essential.