Why become an RPT? (Registered Play Therapist)

Becoming a Registered Play Therapist (RPT) is not necessary in order to use play therapy during the treatment process. However, when play therapy is a consistent form of intervention, consideration should be given to pursuing an RPT.  Meeting the requirements of a Registered Play Therapist guarantees that the therapist has extensive and specialized training regarding the incorporation of play into the therapy process.  It also means the therapist must maintain this credentialing with continuing education.  This assures the most current and innovative information in the field of play therapy is being consistently acquired by the therapist and utilized in the treatment process. It is a highly recommended credential for those using play in therapy.

Qualifications for becoming an RPT and/or RPT-S (Registered Play Therapist – Supervisor)

• Mental health licensure or certification (LPC, LMFT, LCSW, etc.)
• Educational degrees: Master’s or higher mental health degree with coursework in 5 core areas.
• Play therapy training: 150 hours
• Supervised play therapy experience: 500 for RPT and 1000 RPT-S.  The additional 500 hours for RPT-S need not be supervised. (See current list)
• Clinical experience: 2 years and 2,000 hours for RPT and 5 years and 5, 000 post Master’s degree hours for RPT-S.
• Supervisor training: 4 hours (RPT-S only).

Renewal Criteria

• Mental health licensure or certification.
• Continuing education: 36 hours every 36 months.  Also 2 hours of supervisor training for RPT-S.

For guidelines and application, visit the national site.

To discuss your eligibility contact Carol Guerrero at APT at (559) 252-2278, ext 1.

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