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- Tasks: Deliver Play Therapy sessions and contribute to neurodevelopmental assessments for children.
- Company: Held Health supports children and families with neurodevelopmental conditions and emotional wellbeing challenges.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional development.
- Other info: Part-time and associate contracts available; hybrid work model with remote options.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on children's lives while working in a supportive, values-led team environment.
- Qualifications: Must have a recognised qualification in Play Therapy and at least 2 years' experience with children.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 36000 £ per year.
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Play Therapist
Location: Hybrid – remote and in-person, ideally with reach into the Greater Manchester area, Stockport, Trafford, Cheshire and Salford considered
Contract:Associate or Part-time contracts available
About Held Health Held Health is a multidisciplinary service that supports children, young people, and their families with neurodevelopmental conditions, emotional wellbeing challenges, and mental health needs. We provide online and in-person assessments and interventions across the UK, working collaboratively to ensure families feel heard, held, and helped.
As a Play Therapist at Held Health, you will work closely with families, clinicians, and education professionals to deliver thoughtful, developmentally informed therapy to children facing complex life experiences such as trauma, anxiety, bereavement, or neurodivergence. You will be part of our neurodevelopmental assessment service and wider therapeutic support offering.
Key Responsibilities
- Deliver Play Therapy sessions for children
- Contribute to neurodevelopmental assessments (Autism and ADHD) through structured observations and activity-based sessions where appropriate
- Conduct initial therapeutic consultations and ongoing case reviews
- Assess and review the therapeutic needs of each child in collaboration with the wider team
- Maintain clear, accurate, and timely clinical records, reports, and safeguarding notes
- Work closely with parents/carers and liaise with schools and other professionals to support the child holistically
- Contribute to multidisciplinary team (MDT) meetings and clinical formulations
- Participate in regular clinical supervision and reflective practice
- Stay up to date with relevant research and best practices in Play Therapy and child mental health
Who we are looking for:
We are looking for a compassionate, confident and curious therapist who is:
- Experienced in working with children with a range of needs, including trauma, loss, anxiety, neurodivergence, and developmental challenges
- Emotionally resilient, calm under pressure, and able to hold difficult emotional material sensitively
- Skilled in working independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team
- Highly organised and confident managing a varied caseload
- A reflective practitioner with strong safeguarding knowledge
Your skills and experience:
- Recognised qualification in Play Therapy from a BAPT- or PTUK-accredited programme
- Registration with BAPT, PTUK, or a relevant professional body
- Minimum 2 years’ post-qualifying experience working therapeutically with children and families
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Strong understanding of child development and attachment
- Commitment to safeguarding and ethical therapeutic practice
- IT proficiency, including experience using Microsoft Office and clinical case management systems
- Experience in delivery of Theraplay, Creative Arts Therapy or similar.
- ADOS-2, ADI-R or similar training/experience in neurodevelopmental assessments
- Experience working within an Autism or ADHD diagnostic service
- Experience delivering therapy remotely
- Familiarity with trauma-informed and neurodiversity-affirming practice
What We Offer
- Flexible working arrangements with autonomy and support
- Opportunities to contribute to service development
- Regular clinical supervision and MDT case discussion
- Access to CPD and professional development support
- Supportive and values-led team environment
- Competitive salary and transparent progression
Your Compensation and Benefits:
- Company Pension scheme where applicable
- Induction Programme
- Opportunities for professional learning and development with career advancement
- Supportive and collaborative work environment, including a proactive Multi-disciplinary Team
- Dedicated regular clinical supervision for our full time roles – creating a safe, reflective space with clear boundaries, tasks, and expectations. This person-centred focus allows our staff to feel heard, supported, and equipped to grow in their roles.
- Maternity / Paternity / Adoption Leave
- Regular Team events
- Cycle to work scheme
How to Apply
To express interest, please submit your CV and a short covering note explaining why you would like to join Held Health. If you’d like to discuss the role before applying, we’d be happy to arrange an informal conversation.
We are committed to equality, diversity, and safeguarding in all areas of our work. All successful applicants will be subject to enhanced DBS and background checks and must provide references.
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Play Therapist employer: Held Health
Contact Detail:
Held Health Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Play Therapist
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific therapeutic approaches mentioned in the job description, such as Theraplay and Creative Arts Therapy. Being able to discuss these methods confidently during an interview will demonstrate your expertise and commitment to the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the field of Play Therapy, especially those who work within multidisciplinary teams. Engaging with others can provide insights into the role and may even lead to referrals or recommendations for your application.
✨Tip Number 3
Stay updated on the latest research and best practices in child mental health and Play Therapy. Mentioning recent studies or techniques during your discussions can showcase your dedication to continuous learning and improvement.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your experience with neurodevelopmental assessments, particularly in relation to Autism and ADHD. Highlighting your relevant training and practical experience will help you stand out as a strong candidate for this position.
We think you need these skills to ace Play Therapist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in Play Therapy and working with children. Emphasise your qualifications, such as registration with BAPT or PTUK, and any specific training related to neurodevelopmental assessments.
Craft a Compelling Cover Note: In your cover note, express your passion for supporting children and families facing emotional challenges. Mention specific experiences that demonstrate your skills in delivering therapy and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams.
Showcase Your Skills: Highlight your communication and interpersonal skills, as well as your understanding of child development and attachment. Provide examples of how you've successfully managed a varied caseload and contributed to team discussions.
Research Held Health: Familiarise yourself with Held Health's mission and values. Understanding their approach to therapy and commitment to safeguarding will help you align your application with their expectations and demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Held Health
✨Show Your Passion for Play Therapy
Make sure to express your genuine enthusiasm for working with children and your commitment to play therapy. Share personal anecdotes or experiences that highlight your passion and how it aligns with the values of Held Health.
✨Demonstrate Your Collaborative Skills
Since the role involves working closely with families, clinicians, and education professionals, be prepared to discuss examples of how you've successfully collaborated in a multidisciplinary team. Highlight your communication skills and ability to build relationships.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your approach to handling complex situations involving children facing trauma or anxiety. Think about specific cases from your experience and how you applied therapeutic techniques to support the child effectively.
✨Stay Updated on Best Practices
Familiarise yourself with the latest research and best practices in play therapy and child mental health. Being able to discuss recent developments or techniques will demonstrate your commitment to professional growth and effective practice.