Introducing the Alexander JFS Play Institute

A comprehensive training program for mental health professionals working with children, approved by the Association for Play Therapy (APT).

Posted
July 7, 2025
A young woman and a toddler are sitting at a small table in a brightly colored playroom. The woman, wearing a blue long-sleeve shirt, is watching the child, who is smiling and drawing with colored pencils.

Introducing the Alexander JFS Play Institute

A comprehensive training program for mental health professionals working with children, approved by the Association for Play Therapy (APT).

Posted
July 7, 2025

Introducing the Alexander JFS Play Institute!

Alexander JFS is excited to announce the launch of the JFS Play Institute, a comprehensive training program for mental health professionals working with children, approved by the Association for Play Therapy (APT)!  With the growing demand for high-quality, specialized training in play therapy, the JFS Play Institute is meeting the moment—offering accessible, expert-led instruction that meets the rigorous standards of the Association for Play Therapy (APT). Alexander JFS is committed to supporting clinicians with accessible, expert-led, and APT-compliant training.

Who Should Attend? 

JFS Play Institute trainings are designed for licensed mental health professionals or graduate-level clinicians who work with children, clinicians interested in becoming a Registered Play Therapist™ (RPT™) and professionals seeking APT-approved continuing education hours in play therapy. Whether you're just beginning your journey or looking to deepen your practice, our program offers valuable training to support your growth.

APT-Approved Provider

Alexander JFS is an APT-Approved Continuing Education Provider, officially designated by the Association for Play Therapy (APT) to offer training that meets its professional standards. Our training is structured to help professionals meet these requirements efficiently and effectively. The JFS Play Institute's trainings align with APT guidelines and count toward the credentialing process for becoming a Registered Play Therapist™ (RPT), which involves a three-phase approach with the following requirements:

  • 150 hours of play therapy specific instruction
  • 350 direct client contact hours
  • 35 hours of supervision by an RPT-S™ (can include individual and group formats)

Phase 1: Fall Training Overview

The Fall 2025 training series will fulfill Phase 1 of the APT requirements for becoming an RPT™.  Highlights of the training include:

  • Foundation of play therapy theories and practice
  • Developmentally appropriate techniques
  • Use of expressive arts and sand tray modalities
  • Live demos, case examples, and role plays

Expert Faculty and Consultation Support

Trainings are led by RPTs™, RPT™-Supervisors, and credentialed clinicians with extensive experience working with children. On-going consultation is available for those pursuing their RPT™ or seeking case support. We provide a supportive learning community with opportunities for mentorship and networking. Alexander JFS also offers play therapy supervision hours by RPT™-Supervisors.

Training Environment

Participants have access to our dedicated play therapy training room at Alexander JFS, equipped with a wide array of toys, expressive materials, and therapeutic tools. This professional setting supports hands-on learning through observation, guided practice and feedback.

Join the Movement - Sign Up Today!

Whether you're expanding your skills or seeking a new credential, JFS Play Institute provides the training and support to help you succeed. Registration is now open for fall trainings; limited spots are available.

REGISTER NOW

For more information or to join our interest list, please contact us at:

JFSPlayinstitute@alexanderjfs.org

713-986-7827

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