Children often express their emotions and experiences through play rather than words. Child-centred play therapy is a powerful approach that helps children communicate, process emotions, and overcome psychological challenges in a safe and supportive environment. The OSHAA 30-Hour Professional Diploma in Child-Centred Play Therapy is designed to equip professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to support children’s emotional well-being through therapeutic play.
Child-centred play therapy is a specialised therapeutic approach that allows children to explore their emotions, thoughts, and experiences through play. Unlike traditional talk therapy, which may not be suitable for young children, play therapy provides a natural way for children to express themselves. Therapists create a safe and accepting space where children can process their emotions and develop healthy coping mechanisms.
Play therapy is used to support children facing a range of emotional and behavioural challenges, including trauma, anxiety, stress, and social difficulties. It is widely used in schools, counselling centres, healthcare settings, and private therapy practices.
The OSHAA 30-Hour Professional Diploma in Child-Centred Play Therapy provides the essential knowledge and skills to support children’s emotional and psychological development through play. Whether you are a professional in mental health, education, or social care, this course offers a valuable qualification that enhances your ability to help children thrive.
OSHAA 30-Hours Professional Diploma in Child Centered Play Therapy
Study Units
Learning Outcomes
Introduction to Child-Centred Play Therapy (2 Hours)
- Understand the principles and philosophy of child-centred play therapy.
- Recognise the importance of play as a therapeutic tool for children.
- Identify the key benefits and applications of play therapy in different settings.
The Role of the Play Therapist (3 Hours)
- Understand the responsibilities and ethical considerations of a play therapist.
- Develop essential skills such as active listening, empathy, and non-directive guidance.
- Learn how to establish a trusting and supportive relationship with children.
Understanding Child Development and Emotional Needs (4 Hours)
- Gain insight into various stages of child development and their emotional impact.
- Understand how children process emotions and experiences through play.
- Identify common emotional and psychological challenges faced by children.
Therapeutic Play Techniques and Approaches (5 Hours)
- Explore different play therapy techniques, including directive and non-directive methods.
- Learn how to use toys, storytelling, and creative arts to facilitate therapy.
- Understand how to adapt play therapy approaches to meet individual children’s needs.
Creating a Safe and Supportive Play Environment (3 Hours)
- Learn how to design a therapeutic space that encourages free expression.
- Understand the importance of a structured yet flexible environment in play therapy.
- Recognise the role of sensory-friendly and trauma-informed settings in therapy.
Assessing Children’s Emotional and Behavioural Challenges (4 Hours)
- Develop skills to observe and assess children’s play behaviours and emotional responses.
- Understand common behavioural indicators of trauma, anxiety, and emotional distress.
- Learn how to document observations and use assessment tools in therapy.
Ethical and Professional Considerations in Play Therapy (4 Hours)
- Understand the ethical guidelines and legal responsibilities of play therapists.
- Learn about confidentiality, safeguarding, and informed consent in child therapy.
- Recognise cultural and diversity considerations in therapeutic practice.
Working with Parents, Caregivers, and Schools (5 Hours)
- Develop strategies for collaborating with parents, teachers, and caregivers.
- Understand the role of multidisciplinary teams in supporting children’s mental health.
- Learn how to provide guidance and feedback to families while maintaining professional boundaries.
- Industry-Recognised Qualification – Gain a professional certification that enhances career opportunities in child therapy and mental health support.
- Comprehensive Understanding of Play Therapy – Develop in-depth knowledge of therapeutic play techniques, child development, and emotional well-being.
- Practical Skills Development – Learn hands-on strategies to engage children in therapy sessions and support their emotional needs.
- Improved Child Assessment Skills – Gain the ability to recognise emotional and behavioural challenges through play-based interactions.
- Ethical and Professional Confidence – Understand legal, ethical, and safeguarding considerations in child therapy.
- Enhanced Communication with Children – Learn how to establish trust, create a safe space, and facilitate meaningful therapeutic interactions.
- Collaboration with Families and Schools – Develop skills to work effectively with parents, caregivers, and educators to support children’s well-being.
- Flexible Career Opportunities – Open doors to roles in counselling, education, healthcare, social work, and community support.
- Support for Trauma and Emotional Challenges – Equip yourself with techniques to help children coping with trauma, anxiety, grief, and social difficulties.
- Personal and Professional Growth – Enhance your ability to make a meaningful impact on children’s lives through therapeutic play interventions.
The OSHAA 30-Hour Professional Diploma in Child-Centred Play Therapy is ideal for individuals working with children in therapeutic, educational, and support settings. This course is suitable for:
- Counsellors and Therapists – Professionals looking to specialise in child therapy using play-based approaches.
- Teachers and Educators – Those who want to incorporate therapeutic play techniques into their teaching practice.
- Social Workers and Child Protection Officers – Professionals working with vulnerable children who require emotional support.
- Healthcare Professionals – Nurses, psychologists, and paediatric healthcare workers involved in child mental health and well-being.
- Parents and Caregivers – Individuals seeking to better understand and support children’s emotional needs through play.
- Students in Psychology, Counselling, or Child Development – Those pursuing careers in mental health, education, or child support services.
- Youth Workers and Community Support Professionals – Individuals working with children in community, foster care, or outreach programmes.
This course is suitable for both beginners and experienced professionals who want to expand their knowledge and skills in child-centred play therapy.
