GCRD

Play Therapy

MSc in Play Therapy

Make a Lasting Impact on Children’s Emotional Wellbeing

The Master of Science (MSc) in Play Therapy is a practice-led, postgraduate programme designed for professionals who want to use play as a powerful therapeutic tool to support children’s emotional, psychological, and social development. This specialist course equips students with evidence-based skills to work with children facing trauma, behavioral challenges, developmental issues, or mental health difficulties.

 

Through a blend of academic theory, creative therapeutic techniques, and supervised clinical placements, this MSc prepares graduates for meaningful careers in healthcare, education, mental health services, and private practice—ensuring you graduate ready to make a real difference in children’s lives.

 

This qualification also supports pathways to professional registration with leading organisations such as Play Therapy UK (PTUK) and The British Association of Play Therapists (BAPT) .

 

Why Choose This MSc?

  • Specialist Training in Child-Centred Therapy: Learn how to use play as a primary mode of emotional expression and healing.
  • Practical Clinical Experience: Gain hands-on experience through placements in schools, mental health clinics, and community settings.
  • Creative and Expressive Techniques: Explore sand play, storytelling, puppetry, art therapy, and sensory-based interventions.
  • Research-Informed Practice: Build research capabilities and apply evidence-based approaches to child therapy.
  • Expert-Led Teaching: Study under experienced play therapists, psychologists, and child development specialists.
  • Flexible Study Options: Available full-time or part-time, suitable for working professionals.
 

Course Structure: From Theory to Therapeutic Practice

This MSc balances academic learning with experiential training, ensuring you develop both theoretical understanding and practical expertise in play therapy.

 

Core Modules:

  • Foundations of Play Therapy – Explore the principles, history, and role of play in child development and mental health.
  • Theories of Child Development and Attachment – Understand how early experiences shape emotional and cognitive growth.
  • Creative Arts and Expressive Therapy – Apply art, music, drama, and movement in therapeutic settings.
  • Play Therapy Skills and Techniques – Develop essential tools for building rapport, facilitating play sessions, and guiding healing.
  • Assessment and Intervention Strategies – Learn how to design and implement individualised therapy plans.
  • Ethical and Professional Issues in Play Therapy – Navigate legal, ethical, and safeguarding responsibilities.
  • Trauma-Informed Play Therapy – Support children affected by abuse, loss, or complex trauma using appropriate therapeutic methods.
  • Neuroscience and the Developing Child – Explore brain development, emotional regulation, and the impact of early adversity.
  • Research Methods in Play Therapy – Strengthen your ability to conduct independent research and contribute to the field.
  • Clinical Supervision and Reflective Practice – Enhance self-awareness, emotional resilience, and professional effectiveness.
  • Dissertation or Applied Research Project – Conduct original research aligned with your interests and career goals.
 

Practical Training & Clinical Experience:

  • Supervised Clinical Placements – Work directly with children in educational, healthcare, or social care environments.
  • Therapeutic Technique Workshops – Practice using play-based interventions including sand trays, puppets, and creative arts.
  • Case Study Analysis and Role-Playing Exercises – Improve communication, empathy, and therapeutic presence.
  • Interdisciplinary Collaboration – Work alongside educational psychologists, social workers, and mental health practitioners.
 

Please note: Module availability may vary depending on university and delivery mode.

 

Teaching & Assessment Methods

You will learn through a combination of:

 
  • Lectures and seminars led by qualified play therapists
  • Creative workshops and therapeutic skill labs
  • Reflective practice and group discussions
  • Supervised clinical placements with children and families
  • Independent and applied research projects
 

Assessment includes:

 
  • Practical evaluations of play therapy skills
  • Written case study reports and reflective journals
  • Presentations and coursework assignments
  • Placement supervisor feedback and performance reviews
  • Final dissertation or clinical research project
 

Regular feedback and academic mentorship ensure you build confidence and competence throughout the programme.

 

Who Should Apply?

This course is ideal for:

 
  • Graduates with a 2:1 honours degree or equivalent in Psychology, Education, Social Work, Nursing, or Creative Arts Therapy .
  • Applicants with a 2:2 degree and significant experience working with children in mental health, education, or social care settings may be considered on a case-by-case basis.
  • International applicants must meet English language requirements (typically IELTS 7.0 with no component below 6.5 ).
  • All candidates must pass a formal interview and demonstrate motivation and suitability for clinical practice.
  • A criminal background check (DBS or international equivalent) is required due to work with vulnerable groups.
 

Applications are welcomed from both UK and international students aiming to enter or progress in the field of child mental health and therapeutic play.

 

Career Prospects: Unlock Specialist Roles in Child Mental Health

An MSc in Play Therapy opens doors to meaningful careers across a variety of sectors, including:

 
  • Play Therapist – Supporting children in schools, hospitals, or private practice.
  • Child and Adolescent Mental Health Practitioner – Working within NHS or community-based mental health teams.
  • Educational Support Worker – Delivering therapeutic interventions in SEN and mainstream school environments.
  • Family and Social Care Practitioner – Assisting children in foster care, adoption services, and early intervention programmes.
  • Trauma and Crisis Intervention Specialist – Helping children process grief, abuse, or displacement through play.
  • Researcher or Academic – Contributing to studies and policy development in child mental health.
 

Graduates have gone on to successful roles in NHS departments, local authority services, private therapy practices, and international child well-being organisations .

 

With its strong emphasis on child development, therapeutic play, and clinical practice, this qualification significantly enhances your credibility and employability in today’s evolving mental health landscape.

 

Start Your Journey Toward a Career in Play Therapy Today

Whether you’re looking to formalise your passion for child-centred therapy, transition into mental health roles, or prepare for further postgraduate research, the MSc in Play Therapy gives you the strategic insight and practical tools you need to succeed.

 

Apply now and take the next step toward becoming a licensed play therapist and making a lasting impact in child mental health.





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