Play Therapist (Contract)
Reports To: Mimi Le, Clinical Director, The Stewart Center
About The Stewart Center
The Stewart Center at The Westview School is a therapeutic clinic serving children and families in the Houston community. The Center is located on the campus of The Westview School, a school for children on the autism spectrum. The Stewart Center is staffed by professionals with specialized training in supporting children with neurodevelopmental differences. Licensed therapists offer art therapy, speech therapy, occupational therapy, and individual/family therapy.
Position Overview
The Stewart Center is looking for a part-time Play Therapist who is passionate about working with children with autism and developmental challenges. The Play Therapist will work as part of an interdisciplinary team to provide therapeutic services to students in a structured, supportive environment. The ideal candidate will have experience in utilizing play therapy techniques to enhance emotional, social, and cognitive development for children, particularly those with autism.
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct individual play therapy sessions with children, utilizing therapeutic play techniques to address emotional, social, and behavioral goals.
- Collaborate with teachers, behavior analysts, and other therapists to develop and implement individualized treatment plans.
- Document and maintain accurate records of therapy sessions, progress, and treatment goals.
- Support and guide children in developing coping strategies, emotional regulation, and social skills.
- Participate in team meetings to discuss student progress and adjust treatment plans as needed.
- Engage with parents and caregivers to provide resources, feedback, and guidance on supporting their child's emotional development.
- Ensure a safe and supportive therapeutic environment for children during sessions.
Required Qualifications
- Master’s degree in Play Therapy, Clinical Social Work, Counseling, or a related field.
- Valid Play Therapy certification (RPT) or eligibility to work towards certification.
- Experience working with children, particularly those with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or other developmental disabilities.
- Strong knowledge of play therapy principles and techniques.
- Ability to work collaboratively in an interdisciplinary team environment.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with children, families, and colleagues.
- Demonstrated ability to create a safe and therapeutic environment for children.
- Compassionate, patient, and empathetic approach to working with children.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience in a school or therapeutic setting, particularly working with children with ASD.
- Familiarity with behavioral therapy techniques and sensory processing strategies.
Schedule
This is a contract position, with flexible hours to accommodate the needs of the students and the school.
How To Apply
Send the following materials to bkoch@westviewschool.org
- Resumé
- Cover letter outlining your experience with play therapy and working with children with autism
- The names and contact information for two professional references
Job Type: Contract
Work Location: In person