An Exploration of the Roles of Certified Child Life Specialists & Registered Play Therapists in the United States

Abstract

In the United States pediatric hospitals and healthcare organizations are becoming more familiar with the value of Child Life Specialists to partner with children and their families to offer information, preparation, and stress reduction interventions to ease the potential negative emotional impact of a healthcare experience. To that end, Child Life Specialists have a unique role, which is not often understood by other healthcare providers. Historically casually regarded as “the hospital play ladies” Child Life Specialists offer more than simply play. They are child development experts that help to prepare children for unique healthcare experiences. If Child Life Specialists offer therapeutic play to children, what is the role of Registered Play Therapists? This article aims to clarify the roles, training, and scope of practice of both Child Life Specialist and Registered Play Therapists in the United States. had implemented play programs [2]. Out of this recognition of the healing power of play, two organizations were formed in 1982 to support children in their moments of need: The Child Life Council (CLC) and the Association for Play Therapy (APT). The Child Life Council bestows the credential Certified Child Life Specialist and the Association for Play Therapy bestows the credential Registered Play Therapist. The following paper seeks to explore and clarify the differences between the roles and training of Certified Child Life Specialists and Registered Play Therapists.