Certification(2025)
Become a Certified Play Therapist (CPT) in Canada
Join a recognized community of professionals delivering high-quality, ethical, and trauma-informed play therapy across the country.
What is CAPT Certification?
CAPT Certification is a professional designation awarded by the Canadian Association for Play Therapy (CAPT) to therapists who demonstrate advanced clinical training, supervised experience, and a commitment to ethical play therapy practices.
There are two designations:
- CPT® – Certified Play Therapist
- CPT-S® – Certified Play Therapist Supervisor
This certification signifies that a therapist has met national standards in delivering safe, effective, and developmentally appropriate therapeutic play services to children and families in Canada.
Why Certification Matters
For Practitioners
Your Commitment to Growth. Our Commitment to Excellence.
Certification is more than a credential — it’s a reflection of your dedication to helping clients heal and thrive through play.
Professional Recognition: Stand out with a credential trusted by employers, clients, and referring professionals.
Career Development: Access teaching, supervision, and leadership opportunities within CAPT and beyond.
Lifelong Learning: Certification includes a requirement for ongoing education, keeping your practice current and evidence-based.
For Practitioners
A Mark of Professional Excellence and Commitment to a Client’s Wellbeing
Certification reflects professional integrity, verified training, and adherence to the highest standards of Play Therapy in Canada.
Trust & Transparency: Certification helps families choose a therapist with verified training and ethical accountability.
Quality of Care: CAPT-certified therapists have in-depth training in child development, trauma, and therapeutic play techniques.
Easy Access: Find certified professionals in your area via our online directory.
Who Can Apply?
Open to Professionals Supporting Children Through Play
If you’re a mental health practitioner using play as part of your therapeutic approach, you may be eligible to apply for CAPT certification.
To apply for certification, you must:
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! Submit a Prior Learning Assessment (Form C). At least 75% of training should be live or interactive.
At least 500 of the 1,500 general hours must be after your Master’s or licensing date.
Most applicants complete the process in 2–3 years, depending on availability and caseload.
You’ll be added to CAPT’s public directory and must complete 12 hours of CE annually to maintain your status.
They’ve completed intensive training, hands-on clinical experience, and a rigorous vetting process through CAPT.
Yes! Visit our Certified Members Directory to search by name, region, or specialty.
Certified therapists adhere to strict ethical standards, and all must complete regular training and background checks.
Still Have Questions?
Join our monthly Certification Q&A Zoom Session to connect with the Certification Committee, ask questions, and get guidance.
Next Certification Q&A Session
Thinking about becoming a Certified Play Therapist (CPT) or Certified Play Therapist–Supervisor (CPT-S)?
Join our monthly live Q&A session to learn everything you need to know about the certification process — from eligibility requirements to training hours and application tips.
Dec 16 at 1pm EST
During this interactive session, you’ll have a chance to:
- Learn about CAPT’s certification pathways and what’s required.
- Ask questions about your specific training or hours.
- Hear tips from certification committee members.
Connect with other professionals interested in Play Therapy.
Path to Certification Course
Whether you’re just getting started or already partway through your certification journey, this course will help you navigate CAPT’s requirements with clarity and confidence. The Path to Certification Course is your guided introduction to the Play Therapy certification process — helping you understand requirements, organize your documentation, and feel confident as you move through each stage.
Next Course Date:
