The OSHAA 30-Hours Professional Diploma in Play Therapy is a specialised training programme designed for individuals interested in using play as a therapeutic tool to support children’s emotional and psychological development. This professional diploma equips participants with the essential skills and understanding required to work therapeutically with children in various settings, including educational, clinical, and community environments. The Occupational Safety, Health and Awareness Association (OSHAA) has developed a professionally recognized 30-hour diploma program to train individuals in the foundations and applications of play therapy.
Play therapy is a recognised and effective approach that allows children to express their feelings, thoughts, and experiences through play. This OSHAA 30-Hours Professional Diploma in Play Therapy focuses on theoretical frameworks, practical techniques, and ethical considerations necessary for effective therapeutic engagement. Over the duration of 30 hours, learners will gain comprehensive knowledge of child-centred approaches, therapeutic play techniques, and strategies for addressing a wide range of emotional and behavioural issues in children.
Choosing the OSHAA 30-Hours Professional Diploma in Play Therapy offers a unique opportunity to gain practical and theoretical knowledge essential for supporting children’s emotional development. The OSHAA 30-Hours Professional Diploma in Play Therapy is designed by industry experts and meets international training standards. It is ideal for individuals seeking a rewarding career in child therapy or wishing to enhance their current role in education, social work, or healthcare.
All About OSHAA 30-Hours Professional Diploma in Play Therapy
Course Overview
The OSHAA 30-Hours Professional Diploma in Play Therapy is a comprehensive training programme designed to equip individuals with the knowledge and skills required to support children’s emotional and psychological development through therapeutic play. This course explores the fundamentals of play therapy, including child development theories, therapeutic communication, and practical intervention techniques that are essential when working with children in need of emotional support.
With a focus on child-centred approaches, the diploma enables learners to understand the therapeutic power of play and how it can be used to address issues such as anxiety, trauma, behavioural difficulties, and loss. The OSHAA 30-Hours Professional Diploma in Play Therapy content is delivered in a structured format, combining theory with practical application to ensure learners are confident in their ability to create safe, supportive, and effective therapeutic environments.
The OSHAA 30-Hours Professional Diploma in Play Therapy is Ideal for professionals in education, counselling, or social care, this diploma enhances the ability to connect with children on a deeper level and respond to their emotional needs sensitively and effectively. Upon completion, learners are well-prepared to apply therapeutic play techniques in various settings or progress to more advanced qualifications in child therapy and mental health.
Study Units
- Foundations of Play Therapy and Child Development
- Theoretical Approaches to Play Therapy
- Types of Play and Their Therapeutic Value
- Creating a Safe and Inclusive Play Environment
- Understanding Emotional and Behavioural Cues in Play
- Therapeutic Tools and Techniques in Play-Based Interventions
- Working with Trauma and Grief Through Play
- Engaging Families and Building Therapeutic Relationships
To ensure learners can effectively engage with the course content and apply therapeutic techniques, the following entry requirements must be met:
Minimum Age
Applicants must be at least 18 years of age at the time of enrolment.
Educational Background
A minimum of a high school diploma (or equivalent) is required. While not mandatory, a background in education, psychology, social work, or childcare is considered beneficial.
Work Experience
No formal work experience is required; however, prior experience in working with children in educational, healthcare, or community settings is advantageous and may support the learning process.
Language Proficiency
As the course is delivered in English, learners must possess a good command of the English language. This includes the ability to read, write, and communicate effectively to participate in discussions and complete assignments successfully.
This course is designed for individuals who are passionate about supporting children’s emotional well-being through therapeutic play. It is suitable for:
- Teachers, teaching assistants, and early years practitioners who wish to better understand and manage children’s emotional needs in the classroom
- School counsellors, psychologists, and mental health professionals looking to expand their therapeutic toolkit
- Social workers, youth workers, and child welfare professionals seeking to support vulnerable or at-risk children
- Childcare providers and nursery staff aiming to integrate play therapy techniques into daily care routines
- Parents, foster carers, and guardians who want to build stronger emotional connections with children through guided play
- Individuals aspiring to begin a career in child therapy, mental health, or child-focused counselling
This diploma is ideal for both beginners and those with some experience in child development or emotional support roles, offering a practical and accessible pathway into the field of play therapy.
Learning Outcomes
Foundations of Play Therapy and Child Development
- Understand the core principles and purpose of play therapy
- Identify key stages of child development and their relevance to therapeutic practice
- Recognise how developmental delays or disruptions impact emotional well-being
Theoretical Approaches to Play Therapy
- Explore major psychological theories underpinning play therapy
- Differentiate between directive and non-directive approaches
- Apply theoretical knowledge to guide session planning and implementation
Types of Play and Their Therapeutic Value
- Identify various types of play (symbolic, sensory, imaginative, etc.)
- Understand the emotional and psychological functions of different play types
- Assess how each type of play supports therapeutic goals
Creating a Safe and Inclusive Play Environment
- Design therapeutic spaces that are emotionally safe and culturally sensitive
- Implement strategies to ensure inclusivity and accessibility for all children
- Establish boundaries and rules that support psychological safety
Understanding Emotional and Behavioural Cues in Play
- Observe and interpret children’s behaviours and play themes accurately
- Identify signs of stress, anxiety, trauma, or unmet emotional needs
- Use observation to inform therapeutic responses and planning
Therapeutic Tools and Techniques in Play-Based Interventions
- Utilise various play therapy tools such as sand trays, art materials, and puppets
- Apply age-appropriate techniques tailored to individual needs
- Adapt tools to address specific emotional or behavioural challenges
Working with Trauma and Grief Through Play
- Understand the effects of trauma and loss on children’s behaviour and development
- Use play to help children process difficult emotions and build resilience
- Support children in developing healthy coping mechanisms through guided play
Engaging Families and Building Therapeutic Relationships
- Communicate effectively with parents and caregivers to support the child’s therapy
- Build trust-based therapeutic alliances with families
- Educate families on the benefits and processes of play therapy to encourage collaboration
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