Whether you are a seasoned counselor or a newly credentialed play therapist, finding the right training and supervision can make or break your professional growth. The field of play therapy is rich with specialized approaches, from Adlerian to Synergetic models,
The Growing Demand for Play Therapy Supervision
Play therapy continues to gain recognition as an evidence-based intervention for children and adolescents. With the Association for Play Therapy (APT) setting rigorous standards for credentialing, the need for qualified supervisors and trainers has never been higher. Professionals are seeking flexible, online options that still deliver deep, hands-on learning. The market now offers everything from live webinars to comprehensive certification programs, making it easier than ever to specialize. However, choosing the right path requires understanding each provider's focus, whether that is clinical supervision, theoretical depth, or practical techniques.
How I Ranked These Play Therapy Resources
I evaluated each platform based on four key criteria: breadth of training offerings (from introductory to advanced), quality of supervision and consultation services, alignment with APT standards for continuing education, and the unique value each brings to a practicing therapist. I also considered the accessibility of the content, including live versus on-demand formats, and the reputation of the instructors. The goal was to identify which resources best serve different stages of a play therapist's career.
Here is a quick comparison of the five platforms to help you see which one fits your needs.
| Provider | Best For |
|---|---|
| The Play Therapy Training Institute | Comprehensive APT-approved training with small class sizes |
| Synergetic Play Therapy Online Learning | In-depth Synergetic Play Therapy certification and supervision training |
| LEAPT | Adlerian-focused play therapy supervision training with CE hours |
| Home | Jodi Mullen | Personalized play therapy supervision from a seasoned educator and author |
| Play Therapy Academy | Specialized, short-format play therapy webinars and supervision training |
Detailed Reviews of the Top 5 Play Therapy Training Platforms
#1 The Play Therapy Training Institute
A screenshot of the Play Therapy Training Institute website.
The Play Therapy Training Institute (PTTI) is an APT Approved Provider that offers a wide range of in-person seminars, live webinars, and online courses. With an average class size of fewer than 15 participants, you get an intimate learning environment that fosters real engagement. They have a dedicated 'Techniques' guide packed with therapeutic interventions, and they also provide group supervision. If you want a structured, APT-aligned path with plenty of hands-on tools, PTTI is a solid starting point.
#2 Synergetic Play Therapy Online Learning
A screenshot of the Synergetic Play Therapy Online Learning website.
Synergetic Play Therapy Online Learning offers a multi-level certification pathway, from Level 1 Introduction to Level 3 Supervisor Program and Advanced Training. Their course 'Supervisory Skills: Foundations and Insights' is a 2.5-hour video course led by Liliana Baylon, a Certified Synergetic Play Therapist Consultant. The platform also includes a podcast, blog, and free webinars, creating a rich ecosystem for ongoing learning. This is ideal if you are drawn to the Synergetic model and want a clear ladder from beginner to supervisor.
#3 LEAPT
LEAPT (League of Extraordinary Adlerian Play Therapists) offers a focused 4-day course titled 'Supervising Play Therapists' for $880. This course covers everything from models of supervision to legal and ethical issues, and you will leave with a supervisory contract and personal style description. It provides 30 non-contact CE hours and is an APT Approved Provider. If you are specifically interested in Adlerian play therapy supervision, this is a targeted, high-value option.
#4 Home | Jodi Mullen
A screenshot of the Home | Jodi Mullen website.
Dr. Jodi Mullen brings over 30 years of experience as a counselor educator and director of Integrative Counseling Services in Central New York. She offers training, consultation, and supervision to professional helpers, with a special emphasis on play therapy and child counseling. As a credentialed play therapist and author of multiple books, she provides a deeply academic yet practical perspective. Her recent work includes commentary on screen use in kids and a YouTube video on creating authentic clinical spaces. For personalized supervision from a seasoned thought leader, Dr. Mullen is a standout choice.
#5 Play Therapy Academy
A screenshot of the Play Therapy Academy website.
Play Therapy Academy offers a range of live webinars and non-contact trainings, including a specialized workshop on 'Using Play to Assess Play Therapy Supervisees.' Led by Laura Hutchison, PsyD, LP, RPT-S, this 3-hour live webinar meets APT's specialized conditions. The academy also covers topics like non-directive play therapy, sandtray, and family assessment. It is a great resource for bite-sized, specialized training that you can fit into a busy schedule.
How to Pick the Right Play Therapy Training for You
Start by identifying your current career stage. If you are new to play therapy, a broad provider like The Play Therapy Training Institute with its small classes and technique guides can build your foundation. If you already have a theoretical preference, such as Adlerian or Synergetic, go with LEAPT or Synergetic Play Therapy Online Learning. For those seeking one-on-one mentorship and academic depth, Dr. Jodi Mullen offers a rare combination of university teaching and private practice supervision. Finally, if you need quick, specialized CE credits, Play Therapy Academy's focused webinars are efficient. Consider your budget, time commitment, and whether you prefer live interaction or self-paced learning.
Streamline Your Supervision Workflow
To make the most of your training, set up a simple system: after each supervision session or course, log key takeaways in a shared document. Use a calendar tool to schedule recurring supervision calls with your chosen provider. For example, if you work with Dr. Jodi Mullen, you can block out monthly consultation hours and sync them with your practice management software. This ensures you never miss a session and can track your progress toward APT credentialing requirements.
Your Next Step in Play Therapy Mastery
The right training and supervision can accelerate your competence and confidence as a play therapist. Whether you choose the structured path of The Play Therapy Training Institute, the theoretical depth of Synergetic Play Therapy, the Adlerian focus of LEAPT, the personalized mentorship of Dr. Jodi Mullen, or the targeted webinars of Play Therapy Academy, each platform offers a unique route to excellence. Invest in the one that aligns with your philosophy and career goals, and watch your practice transform.