The Centre for Play Therapy and Training focuses on short programme online training for play-based interventions aimed at Social Workers, Psychologists, registered Counselors, educators specialised in psycho-social support and learner support, and Occupational Therapists who, in their scope of practice engage with children. Children are naturally drawn to play, and it is an important part of their development. Therefore, using play-based interventions can be a highly effective way to engage with children and support their growth and development. Play-based interventions can also be used to help children build important social and emotional skills, such as empathy, communication, and problem-solving. Professionals who are trained in these interventions will be better equipped to support children in developing these skills. It is essential for professionals to understand and respect the limitations of their scope of practice and to act with integrity.
Dr Hannie Schoeman, the founder of the Centre for Play Therapy and Training and the presenter of this course, composed this training after many years of practical experience in this field. She worked and studied in Santa Barbara, USA, and Canada and lectured at different Universities for more than thirty years. She lectured at the University of Pretoria, UNISA, and Potchefstroom for more than 30 years. She is still in collaboration with her community, schools in the Overberg and different associations working with the wellbeing of children. Her love and care for children keep her still going with enthusiasm compassion and energy. She undertakes talks and sessions with Gestalt Therapists on an international level and also presents training for them via Skype and other online platforms.
It is important to note that while our training program offers valuable skills and knowledge in this area, it does not provide a complete skill set to start a new career path. Additionally, it is crucial to understand that completion of our training program does not authorize individuals to act as therapists if they are not registered as such with a statutory board. It is important to seek proper certification and or registration from the relevant authorities/ statutory boards before engaging in therapeutic practice.
The Centre for Play Therapy and Training Courses
- Gestalt Intervention Level 1 Online Course (24 hours)
- Gestalt Intervention Level 2 Online Course (24 hours)
- Play Therapy Level 1 (In-person 4 days)
- Play Therapy Level 2 (In-person 4 days)
- A unique Twelve Day Service Learning Programme (SLP)
Level 1: 24 CPD (19.03.2024 – 19.03.2025) 102/2024
Level 2: 25 CPD (19.03.2024 – 19.03.2025) 201/2024
2025: Both courses are accredited with SACSSP and the HPCSA Cross Professional Board (awaiting HPCSA 2025 accreditation dates and numbers).
See the Course overview page for information about all the courses, including who can register, how to apply, SACSSP and HPCSA CPD credits, certificates and prices …
The physical courses and the online courses are the same price.
R2850.00 PER LEVEL
When registering and paying for both levels you qualify for a complimentary hard copy of the book :
A GESTALT INTERVENTION FRAMEWORK FOR PLAY PRACTITIONERS (500 pages, Retail price R599.00). The book is required for Level 2.
Online Courses in Play Therapy Level 1 & 2
You can now do both the Level 1 and 2 courses online in the privacy of your own space. You will need to have an internet connection and data to follow the course. You will save time, transport and traveling expenses as well as accommodation costs incurred when doing the In-person courses. Training hours of your choice in the privacy of your office or home.
You are given two calendar months per course to complete each course level. You would therefore have four calendar months to complete both Level 1 and 2. Should you not succeed in completing both courses in four months, your enrolment will be cancelled.
The courses are developed and presented by Dr. Hannie Schoeman.
You may start the Online Courses anytime that suits you.
Testimonials – References by professionals who have completed the courses.
“This course was very informative and exceeded my expectations. It also spoke to some areas in my own life. It was eye opening and amazed me to experience the accuracy of the application.” Siphosethu Mapolisa – Registered Social Worker
“This has been one of my best courses I’ve ever done. It was enriching, theoretically sound and rife with practical examples of how to implement play therapy in one’s practice. I will recommend this course to anyone in a heartbeat.” Anuska Rabe-Steynberg – Registered Psychologist
“Once again BIG thank you for all your leadership and mentoring throughout the course, it was most empowering and so beneficial to my growth as a therapist! Even via the online method, so grateful, You are amazing – keep shining!” Jade Mayne – Remedial specialist and educational support
“I wanted to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude for the incredible teaching you delivered on Gestalt, It was not only informative but also incredibly inspiring. Your ability to communicate complex ideas in a clear and engaging manner truly made play therapy come alive to me in more ways than I can explain. Your expertise and dedication to your field are truly commendable and inspiring.” Jolene Yeo – Registered Counsellor