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Now accepting applications for Spring 2021! Apply by 1/31/21. All application fees currently waived.

At a Glance

  • 1-year (part-time), fully online program
  • Completion of 13 academic units
  • $4,500 flat rate for entire certificate program
  • Faculty mentoring and support available
  • Christian environment emphasizing compassionate whole person care

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Program Director: Kimberly R. Freeman, PhD

The Play Therapy certificate is housed under the Division of Interdisciplinary Studies in the School of Behavioral Health. The program is available online only and is authorized in these states.

Admission

Applicants must meet the admission requirements as follows:

  • A fully completed LLU application form.
  • A graduate with a licensable mental health degree from an accredited university. (Official transcripts are evidence of degrees and courses completed.) Individuals already licensed as a mental health professional must be in good standing with the relevant licensing board.
  • Consideration for admission will be given to individuals in the process of completing a licensable mental health graduate degree from an accredited university. Applicant must be in good academic standing and have permission from their current program to enroll.
  • Submit three letters of recommendation from an academic source, professional peer, and/or a work supervisor.

Admissions FAQ

Program Curriculum

Length of Program: 4 academic quarters—based on part-time enrollment

  • PLTH 513 Introduction to Play Therapy (3 units)
  • PLTH 516 Child-Centered Play Therapy (3 units)
  • PLTH 546 Child-Parent Relationship Therapy (3 units)
  • PLTH 550 Trauma Focused Play Therapy (3 units)
  • RELE 510 Service Learning (1 unit)

Course Schedule Course Descriptions

Program Cost

Flat rate of $4,500.00 for the entire Play Therapy certificate program. Payment can be divided over the 4 quarters of the program.

Certification Information

Completion of the Play Therapy certificate coursework at Loma Linda University does not include certification as a Registered Play Therapist. Individuals must apply to the Association for Play Therapy (United States) or the applicable certifying association in their country, and complete all additional requirements.

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Sydney Rucker
Graduate Story
I am very thankful to have attended Loma Linda University's Play Therapy program. The various approaches to play therapy provided different skills and techniques that have been very helpful in my work with children and families. The role-playing exercises in the program were a useful way to simulate realistic responses.
Sydney Rucker, MSW
Class of 2019