Therapeutic Child Play

The Master of Therapeutic Child Play at Deakin University is a comprehensive graduate program designed to equip students with the knowledge and practical skills necessary to support the emotional, social, and developmental well-being of children through play-based therapy. This program is ideal for professionals and students interested in child psychology, counseling, social work, and related fields who aim to specialise in therapeutic play interventions tailored for children facing mental health challenges, developmental delays, or trauma. Over the duration of the course, students will engage in a blend of theoretical learning and hands-on clinical practice, ensuring they gain a deep understanding of children's developmental stages, psychology, and effective therapeutic techniques. The curriculum covers core topics such as child development, counselling theories, assessment and intervention strategies, and ethical considerations in therapeutic practice. Additionally, students will explore various play therapy modalities, including directive and non-directive techniques, to foster emotional expression and resilience in children. The program incorporates practical placements that enable students to work directly with children under supervision, applying their learned skills in real-world settings. Throughout their studies, students will develop critical communication skills, cultural competence, and ethical awareness essential for working with diverse client populations. Graduates of the program will be prepared to pursue careers as play therapists, child psychologists, counsellors, or work within educational, healthcare, and community service environments. The Master of Therapeutic Child Play reflects Deakin University's commitment to delivering innovative, research-informed education that addresses contemporary issues in child mental health and developmental support, positioning graduates to make a meaningful impact in their chosen fields.

The Master Class H705 Master of Child Play Therapy Contributes to professional Understanding. This Graduate Certificate is a skills enhancement program that encourages professionals to activate brand new learning and also increase their existing skills.

Entry will be based on operation in Bachelor Degree or more or 2 years relevant work experience or signs of academic capability judged to be equivalent.

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 financing of the Therapeutic Child Play program at Deakin University typically involves several options for prospective students. Domestic students may have access to a range of financial assistance programs including government supported loans such as HELP (Higher Education Loan Program), which can cover part or all of the tuition fees depending on eligibility. These loans are designed to make university education more accessible and manageable by deferring the payment until after graduation when the student is employed. Additionally, students may explore scholarships and grants offered directly by Deakin University or external organizations. These financial awards are often merit-based or need-based and can significantly reduce the tuition burden. Deakin University also provides flexible payment plans that allow students to pay their tuition fees in installments, easing cash flow management over the course of their studies. For international students, financing options differ; they usually pay the full tuition upfront, but some scholarships may be available to offset costs. Students are encouraged to contact Deakin’s Future Students team or visit the university’s official website to obtain the most current information on available financial aid, scholarship opportunities, and payment methods. Part-time work opportunities, including university-based jobs, internships, and industry placements, also serve as supplementary income sources, helping students to finance their studies while gaining valuable practical experience. Furthermore, some students may access private or family funding sources to support their education. It is recommended that students carefully review all financial options and plan their budget accordingly to ensure that they can comfortably meet their financial commitments throughout their academic pursuit.

The Professional Practice (Therapeutic Child Play) program at Deakin University offers students an in-depth exploration of therapeutic play techniques aimed at supporting children's emotional and psychological well-being. This postgraduate qualification is designed for professionals working with children, such as psychologists, social workers, counselors, and educators, who seek to enhance their skills in therapeutic interventions through play-based methods. The program emphasizes evidence-based practices and integrates contemporary research with practical applications, enabling students to develop intervention strategies tailored to individual children's needs.

Throughout the course, students gain a comprehensive understanding of child development, therapeutic relationships, and various play modalities, including creative arts, storytelling, and play therapy techniques. They learn how to assess children's needs accurately, develop tailored intervention plans, and implement therapeutic play sessions effectively. The curriculum also covers ethical considerations, confidentiality, and the importance of cultural competence when working with diverse populations.

The program incorporates a combination of theoretical coursework, practical placements, and supervised clinical practice, ensuring that students acquire both knowledge and hands-on experience. This blend of learning modalities prepares graduates for immediate application in their professional settings or for further specialization in child mental health services. The program recognizes the importance of interprofessional collaboration and encourages students to work within multidisciplinary teams to optimize outcomes for children and their families.

Graduates of the Therapeutic Child Play program are equipped with the skills necessary to contribute meaningfully to child mental health and developmental support services. They are prepared to work in various settings, including schools, community health centers, private practices, and non-governmental organizations. The qualification also supports career advancement for professionals aiming to specialize further or take on supervisory or leadership roles within child therapy services.

Deakin University’s program maintains a strong focus on contemporary, solution-focused approaches to therapeutic play, ensuring that students are aligned with current best practices in the field. Additionally, the program offers flexibility through part-time study options, catering to working professionals. By completing this program, students will be able to facilitate positive developmental outcomes for children while gaining a solid foundation in the therapeutic use of play. The program’s strong emphasis on practical experience, combined with academic rigor, makes it a distinctive pathway for those committed to improving children's mental health and emotional resilience through play therapy.