Basics of Play Therapy
Basics of Play Therapy is a free online psychology course by Alison US CA that teaches play-based therapeutic techniques for helping children cope with trauma, abuse, and emotional distress. Ideal for aspiring therapists and child welfare professionals seeking foundational skills in child mental health support.
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Key features
- Free online course access
- Covers origins and development of play therapy
- Focus on trauma interventions for abused children
- Includes UK play therapist guidelines
- Explores three play therapy models
- Teaches strategies for homeless and at-risk youth
- Highlights healthy child development needs
Pros
- +No cost to enroll
- +Beginner-friendly structure
- +Practical focus on trauma support
- +Relevant for global audiences
- +Flexible self-paced learning
Cons
- −Not a certified qualification
- −No hands-on clinical practice
- −Limited depth on advanced techniques
About Basics of Play Therapy
What is Basics of Play Therapy?
Basics of Play Therapy is a comprehensive free online course offered by Alison US CA, designed to introduce learners to the principles and practices of using play as a therapeutic tool for children. Rooted in psychological theory, the course explores how play helps children express emotions, process trauma, and develop healthy relationships with the world around them. It covers the origins of play therapy, its theoretical foundations, and practical applications for children facing adversity such as homelessness, domestic violence, and emotional abuse.
Key features
- Free Access — No cost to enroll, making it accessible to anyone interested in child psychology.
- Theoretical Foundations — Covers social constructivism and core assumptions of play therapy.
- Clinical Applications — Focuses on intervention strategies for abused, traumatized, and at-risk children.
- Global Relevance — Includes UK guidelines for play therapists, useful for international learners.
- Structured Learning Path — Modules progress from theory to practice, including therapy initiation and challenges.
- Model Overview — Introduces three major models of play therapy and their outcomes.
- Developmental Insight — Explores basic requirements for healthy child development and therapeutic procedures.
Who is Basics of Play Therapy for?
This course is ideal for students of psychology, counseling, or social work; educators; childcare professionals; and anyone supporting children who have experienced trauma. It's especially valuable for those considering a career in play therapy or working with vulnerable populations like homeless youth or survivors of domestic abuse. No prior certification is required, making it suitable for beginners.
How does Basics of Play Therapy compare?
Unlike paid certification programs or university courses, Basics of Play Therapy offers foundational knowledge at no cost, though it does not lead to licensure. Compared to general child psychology courses, it provides focused training on therapeutic play techniques and real-world applications for high-risk groups. While less intensive than clinical training programs, it serves as a strong entry point for non-specialists and aspiring professionals alike.
Best use cases
- →Learning play therapy basics
- →Supporting abused children
- →Training for child counselors
- →Academic supplement for students
- →Professional development in social work
Is Basics of Play Therapy right for you?
Basics of Play Therapy is best for beginners in psychology, education, or social work seeking foundational knowledge in child-centered therapeutic play. No prior experience is needed. It's ideal for those exploring a career in mental health or supporting at-risk youth. While not a substitute for accredited certification programs, it offers a strong starting point. Alternatives include university courses or paid certification in registered play therapy.
How it compares: Compared to university psychology courses or certified play therapy training, this course is free and accessible but lacks clinical hours or licensure pathways. It's more focused than general child development courses, offering targeted insight into therapeutic play for trauma, unlike broad educational resources.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Basics of Play Therapy course about?
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It's a free online course that teaches how play can be used therapeutically to help children cope with trauma, abuse, and emotional distress through structured, evidence-based methods.
Does Basics of Play Therapy provide certification?
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The course offers a completion certificate from Alison, but it does not confer professional licensure or qualify you as a registered play therapist.
How long does it take to complete the course?
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Learners typically complete the course in 3-5 hours, depending on pace, with flexible scheduling and self-directed modules.
Is Basics of Play Therapy suitable for beginners?
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Yes, it's designed for beginners with no prior knowledge, making it ideal for students, caregivers, and aspiring child mental health professionals.
Can I access the course on mobile devices?
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Yes, the course is accessible on desktop, tablet, and mobile devices through the Alison website or app, allowing learning anytime, anywhere.
Is Basics of Play Therapy in stock at Alison?
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Yes, Basics of Play Therapy is currently in stock at Alison.
Specifications
- Category
- Software
- SKU
- 6377