Why Choose Our Program?

Jacksonville University's Clinical Mental Health Counseling program is now offering a Graduate Certificate in Play Therapy. This 12-month graduate certificate program is designed to provide mental health professionals with advanced training in play therapy philosophies, theories, and interventions, as well as how healthy play interactions shape a child's developing brain and relationships in order to apply that knowledge in their work with children and families.

Play is the natural way that children express their emotions and work through problems. This form of therapy allows children to express those thoughts and feelings in a developmentally appropriate way. Play therapy includes a variety of treatment methods that apply the therapeutic benefits of play to help children learn to communicate feelings, modify behavior, develop problem-solving skills, and relate to others. It can be a powerful tool to help children and families connect and process traumatic experiences.

The Graduate Certificate in Play Therapy is a four-course hybrid format focused on experiential learning opportunities, small class sizes, and strong ties to child-serving organizations and agencies in Northeast Florida.

Current students in the areas of mental health counseling, marriage and family therapy, social work, and school counseling are encouraged to apply and eligible for the Registered Play Therapy credential through the Association for Play Therapy.