Play Therapy

The Master of Play Therapy at Charles Darwin University is a comprehensive postgraduate program designed to equip students with the specialized skills and knowledge necessary to effectively utilize play therapy as a therapeutic intervention for children experiencing emotional, behavioural, or psychological challenges. This program combines theoretical foundations with practical application, preparing graduates to work confidently with diverse client populations in various settings, including schools, clinics, community organizations, and private practice. The curriculum covers core areas such as child development, therapeutic principles, ethical considerations, and clinical techniques specific to play therapy. Students will explore different play modalities, learn strategies for establishing therapeutic rapport with children, and develop assessment and intervention plans tailored to individual needs. The program emphasizes cultural competence, encouraging students to understand the influence of cultural backgrounds on therapy processes and outcomes. Through supervised clinical placements and hands-on workshops, participants gain valuable real-world experience, applying their learning in controlled environments under the guidance of experienced practitioners. The Master of Play Therapy aims to foster not only technical proficiency but also compassionate, informed, and ethical practice, enabling graduates to make meaningful differences in the lives of children and their families. This program is ideal for professionals seeking to enhance their therapeutic toolkit or individuals aiming to pursue a dedicated career in child-focused mental health services. Upon completion, graduates will be qualified to work as registered play therapists, contributing positively to the mental health and well-being of children across a variety of professional contexts.

The Play Therapy program at Charles Darwin University offers an in-depth exploration into the principles and practices of therapeutic play as a means of supporting children’s emotional, social, and psychological development. This program is designed for professionals working with children, including psychologists, social workers, counselors, educators, and mental health practitioners who aim to enhance their therapeutic skills through specialized training in play therapy techniques. Throughout the course, students will learn about the theoretical foundations of play therapy, including child development theories, behavioral analysis, and different therapeutic modalities used in practice.

The curriculum covers a wide range of topics, such as play therapy assessment methods, ethical and cultural considerations, developing rapport with young clients, and designing effective treatment plans tailored to individual children's needs. Practical skills are a core component of the program, with students engaging in supervised clinical practice to apply their knowledge in real-world settings. They will learn how to create safe and engaging play environments, utilize a variety of therapeutic tools and techniques, and adapt their approaches to diverse client backgrounds and presenting issues.

Additionally, the program emphasizes the importance of evidence-based practice, encouraging students to critically evaluate research and integrate the latest findings into their work. Participants will explore contemporary issues in child mental health, including trauma, anxiety, depression, behavioral problems, and developmental delays, and how play therapy can be adapted to address these challenges effectively. Ethical practice, confidentiality, and professional responsibilities are also a key focus area throughout the course.

Upon completion of the program, graduates will be equipped with advanced skills to facilitate healing and growth in children facing various emotional and behavioral difficulties. They will be qualified to implement play therapy interventions within a variety of settings, including schools, mental health clinics, community organizations, and private practice. The Play Therapy program at Charles Darwin University aims to foster compassionate, culturally sensitive, and competent practitioners dedicated to making a positive difference in the lives of children and their families.

• An approved bachelor degree or equivalent qualification
• Supporting statement the outlines your reasons for studying play therapy
• Criminal History Check: students will need to have cleared a Police Check or Working Together With Children Check before they can tackle some of the duties. Students whose Authorities Check and/or Working With Children Check are not cleared wont have the ability to tackle a number of the duties and won't so have the ability to finish certain prerequisites of the course.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The Charles Darwin University offers various funding options and financial assistance programs for students enrolled in their degree programs, including those pursuing studies in Play Therapy. Domestic students may be eligible for government-funded schemes such as Commonwealth Supported Places (CSPs) and Higher Education Support Scheme (HECS-HELP), which significantly reduce the financial burden by covering part of the tuition fees. International students, on the other hand, are required to pay full tuition fees which vary depending on the specific program and may be paid upfront or through payment plans facilitated by the university. Private scholarships and bursaries are also available for eligible students demonstrating outstanding academic performance, financial need, or particular career aspirations in the field of mental health and child therapy. Additionally, Charles Darwin University provides flexible payment options, including installment plans, to help students manage their financial commitments over the duration of their studies. Students are encouraged to consult the university’s Financial Assistance office for detailed information on available grants, scholarships, and payment options tailored to their circumstances. External funding sources, such as government and private sector scholarships, and student loans, may also be applicable to eligible students pursuing Play Therapy studies. The university often updates its scholarship offerings and financial aid policies, so prospective and current students should review the official CDU website regularly to stay informed about new opportunities. It is important to note that international students should consider the costs of health insurance, visa application fees, and other associated expenses when planning their finances. Overall, CDU aims to improve access to quality education in Play Therapy by providing diverse financing options to support students’ academic and career goals in mental health services for children and families.

The Master of Play Therapy at Charles Darwin University is a specialized postgraduate program designed to equip students with advanced skills and knowledge to effectively utilize play therapy techniques in the treatment of children experiencing mental health issues, behavioral challenges, or trauma. This program emphasizes the importance of understanding child development, psychological theory, and therapeutic practices tailored specifically to young clients. The curriculum incorporates a comprehensive study of childhood psychology, ethical considerations in therapy, and practical applications of play-based interventions. Students are introduced to various play therapy models, including directive and non-directive approaches, ensuring a well-rounded competency in therapeutic interventions suitable for diverse client needs.

The program aims to prepare graduates to work effectively in various settings such as schools, community health organizations, private practice, and hospitals. It emphasizes not only theoretical understanding but also practical skills through supervised clinical placements, allowing students to gain hands-on experience with real clients under the guidance of experienced professionals. The coursework often includes modules on assessment and diagnosis, therapeutic relationship building, cultural competence, and working with vulnerable populations. The program also highlights current research trends and evidence-based practices in play therapy, promoting a scholarly approach to practice and continuous professional development.

Given Charles Darwin University’s focus on indigenous and community-centered approaches, the program may include components on culturally sensitive therapy methods and working with indigenous children and families. The Master of Play Therapy typically requires two years of full-time study or part-time options, depending on the student’s circumstances. Upon completion, graduates often pursue careers as licensed play therapists or child psychologists, contributing to improving mental health outcomes for children and their families. The program is recognized for its rigorous academic standards and its commitment to producing practitioners who are both skilled and compassionate.

The university provides dedicated support services, including access to experienced faculty members, research facilities, and clinical placement networks. Prospective students should have a background in psychology, social work, or related fields, and should demonstrate a passion for working with children and families. Graduates are encouraged to engage in lifelong learning through professional associations and ongoing education to remain current with advances in play therapy practices. Overall, the Master of Play Therapy at Charles Darwin University offers a comprehensive pathway for those committed to making a meaningful difference in children’s mental health through innovative therapeutic techniques.