Play Therapists
What play therapists do, how they are registered in the UK, how to check a registration, and NHS and private routes. General information only, not personal advice.
What Play Therapists Do
Play is how children naturally communicate, long before they can easily link words to experiences. Play therapy is a child-centred form of counselling in which play is the primary language: children and young people use toys, art materials and imaginative play to show what troubles them at their own pace, without being questioned or required to explain. The therapist follows the child’s lead, reflects feelings, and helps them make sense of muddled or frightening experiences in a private, consistent setting. Sessions are usually weekly, at the same time and place, lasting about an hour. Parents and carers are typically involved in planning and review, while the detail of what happens in the playroom stays between the child and the therapist so the space feels safe. Play therapy is used for a wide range of emotional and behavioural difficulties, including after upsetting or traumatic events.
Registration and Titles
Look for a registered Play Therapist on a register accredited by the Professional Standards Authority, such as those of the British Association of Play Therapists or Play Therapy UK.
How to Check a Registration
Check the practitioner is on a register accredited by the Professional Standards Authority, such as those of the British Association of Play Therapists or Play Therapy UK.
- British Association of Play Therapists
- Play Therapy UK
- Professional Standards Authority accredited registers search
Our guide on how to check a register explains what to look for. Every practitioner on Therapist Circle shows their register and number on their profile so you can check it yourself.
NHS and Other Routes
Play therapy is less often available through the NHS. It is more commonly arranged through schools, local authority services, adoption and fostering support, and children’s charities. A GP, school special educational needs coordinator or social worker can advise on what is available locally.
See finding NHS support and free and low-cost therapy for more routes.
Private Sessions and Fees
Private fees vary by area, experience, session length and setting, so ask each practitioner for their fee, cancellation terms and any reduced-fee places before booking. Our guide to fees, private practice and NHS routes explains what to ask.
Questions to Ask Before You Start
- Which register are you on, and what is your registration number?
- What experience do you have with the kind of difficulty I have?
- How long are sessions, how often, and what do they cost?
- Do you offer online, phone or in-person sessions?
Find Play Therapists
Other Professions
Informed by: British Association of Play Therapists · Play Therapy UK. Not affiliated with any professional body. If you need urgent help, call NHS 111, Samaritans free on 116 123, or 999 if life is at risk.