Program type
Course-based
Play Therapy (Grad. Cert.)
Primary campus
Sir George Williams (SGW)
Duration
2 months
Credits
15 credits
Start term
Summer
Experiential learning
Internship
Program overview
The Graduate Certificate in Play Therapy trains students to intervene therapeutically with children by using a comprehensive multimodal approach. It is unique in that the program offers a practical and hands-on approach to the profession of play therapy. Students work directly with children during their training, participating in supervised play therapy practice sessions. Many programs offer only one or two courses to prepare clinicians to work with children. Those working in the field with children who have experienced complex psychosocial issues often feel overwhelmed and ill-prepared for the reality of the work. This Graduate Certificate was created to address this need and to provide professionals and students with five core courses that offer concrete, evidence-based, foundational hands-on training in play therapy.
This graduate certificate is suitable for professionals working in related fields such as psychology, social work, education and creative arts therapists seeking to increase their skill level and to develop new skills through continuing education. Courses are taught in one-week intensives (one course per week) running from May to June. Students spend four days in class and Friday is spent as a reflection day or reading day.
Program structure
Degree Requirements
Fully-qualified candidates are required to complete a minimum of 15 credits.
Please see the Creative Arts Therapies Courses page for course descriptions.
Play Therapy Graduate Certificate (15 credits)
| 15 | credits of Core Courses
|
Admission requirements
Admission Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in Psychology, Social Work, Youth Work, Child Studies, Early Childhood and Elementary Education, Teaching and other related fields in the provision of mental health or educational services, or equivalent.
- Applicants lacking a relevant undergraduate degree but able to demonstrate evidence of a professional background, including experience working with children in emotional distress within health, social or educational services may be considered for admission on a case by case basis.
- Proficiency in English. Applicants whose primary language is not English must demonstrate that their knowledge of English is sufficient to pursue graduate studies in their chosen field. Please refer to the English language proficiency page for further information on requirements and exemptions.
Application process
Application deadlines
FALL
n/a
WINTER
n/a
SUMMER
December 15
Priority will be given to complete applications submitted by the deadline. In some cases, programs may continue to accept applications as long as there is space available.
International students: Considering the waiting period involved in meeting the entry requirements to Canada and Quebec, we strongly encourage international applicants to apply early and submit supporting documents prior to the deadline.
Tuition & funding
Tuition and fees
Tuition and fees of the program may depend on your student status, among other key factors. Estimate these costs based on the most common situations.
Awards and funding
Funding packages are generally available for students in thesis-based programs. Course-based students may be eligible for a number of donor awards, and may consult with their department for program-specific opportunities.
Out-of-province students
Get $1,000 in special funding for graduate certificate programs. Learn more
Other programs of interest
Combine drama and theatre with therapeutic approaches in the professional Drama Therapy program. Benefit from an emphasis on clinical training that relies on experiential learning to prepare for your career as a drama therapist.
Department
Department of Creative Arts Therapies
Faculty
