You'll need to complete a degree followed by a postgraduate qualification approved by the British Association of Play Therapists or Play Therapy UK.

Your undergraduate degree should be in a related subject like:

• psychology
• early childhood studies
• mental health nursing
• social work
• education

You'll also need experience of working with children in professions like teaching, nursing, counselling, therapy or social work.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study

You could do a Play Therapist Level 7 Higher Apprenticeship.

This typically takes 3 years to complete.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• experience in related work 

• a degree in a relevant subject

You'll need:

• sensitivity and understanding
• excellent verbal communication skills
• the ability to understand people’s reactions
• knowledge of psychology
• patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
• the ability to work well with others
• to be flexible and open to change
• the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
• to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

You'll need to:

• pass enhanced background checks as you may work with children and vulnerable adults

In this role you could:

• work closely with parents, carers and other professionals
• assess a child's needs and decide on a suitable course of action
• run sessions for individuals or groups, using creative arts and storytelling
• monitor and record children's progress
• take part in regular supervision sessions with a more experienced therapist

You could work at a client's home, at a children's care home, at a health centre or at a school.

Your working environment may be emotionally demanding.