The Australian Play Therapists Association (APTA)

 

We are the peak professional association for Australian play therapists. Our members are qualified mental health professionals with a special interest working with children in counselling or psychotherapy using play therapy techniques. Members who are registered play therapists with APTA, have completed intensive training in play therapy either at postgraduate tertiary level, or through recognised training providers in play therapy. Clinical supervision, professional development and adherence to APTA’s Best Practice Guidelines are essential to the practice of play therapy by APTA’s clinical members.

APTA was formed in 2012 and is registered as an incorporated association in Western Australia. APTA accepts membership from the play therapy community all around Australia and internationally. This website will provide resources, information and support to play therapists, mental health professionals and parents.

Our Mission

The APTA aims to advance and promote the interests and standards of play therapy and play therapists in Australia.

 

Our Vision

  • APTA will provide a professional registration process for suitably qualified play therapists in Australia. Professional registration will encompass tertiary level qualifications in a mental health field and intensive play therapy training.

  • APTA will enable Affiliate and Associate membership for all those interested in the benefits of play therapy. This level of membership will also support those members working towards full registration as a play therapist with APTA.

  • APTA will support a dynamic forum for members.

  • APTA will provide opportunities for professional development for all members.

  • APTA will provide resources, information and support to members.

  • APTA will ensure that play therapy training recognised by the association is of a high standard.

  • APTA will provide the Best Practice Guidelines for members to support sound ethical practice and conduct of members.

  • APTA will work to foster a cohesive play therapy community in Australia and internationally.

 

Who We Are

  • President: Jacki Short

  • Vice President: Melanie Jansen

  • Secretary: Elishia Harding

  • Membership Secretary: Trin McNulty

  • Treasurer: Taryn McBurney

  • Marketing: Jane Parkinson

  • Social Media: Simone Rist

  • Ethics & Policies: Elishia Harding

  • Past President: Donna Scott/Sarah Harwood

  • General Committee: Christine Harkin

  • General Committee: Nicky Trussler

  • General Committee: Donna Lai

  • General Committee: Sally May

  • General Committee: Zena Clarke

We acknowledge the traditional Custodians of the land on which we operate, and pay our respects to their elders past, present and emerging.

We acknowledge the traditional Custodians of the land on which we operate, and pay our respects to their elders past, present and emerging.

Our organisation is a place where human rights are respected and people of diverse genders and sexual orientation are welcomed and supported.