Play Therapist - Contract for Service (Sessional Therapist)

Moneybeg, Royal Oak Road, Bagenalstown Co. Carlow, R21 Y753

Bagenalstown FRC was established in 2000 to help combat disadvantage by supporting the functioning of the family unit by providing services and supports to families, parents, men, women, youth, older people and others in need of support. Bagenalstown FRC is a busy, well-established therapeutic hub for people across the community, providing child, adolescent and adult counselling and therapies.

Job Context:

We are seeking an experienced Play Therapist to deliver a community-based play therapy service to children referred to Bagenalstown Family Resource Centre. The Play Therapist will use a variety of play and creative arts techniques to support children with mild to moderate psychological and emotional difficulties. The Play Therapist will provide therapeutic support primarily to children aged 4-12 years old.

Contract Type: Contract for Service (Sessional Therapist)

Hours: 15 hours per week Monday-Friday (Flexibility and evening work may be required)

Education, Skills & Experience

Education:

• A recognised qualification in Play Therapy NQF Level 9 or qualified therapist with a specialism in play therapy. For qualified therapists specialising in play therapy, the specific training course (postgraduate level core training) must extend over a minimum of 2 years, preceded by relevant mental health training, e.g., psychotherapy, clinical or counselling psychology, psychiatry, or counselling.
• Registration with an appropriate professional body (e.g., IAPTP, PTIRL).
• Minimum of 1 year of experience working as a Play Therapist, preferably with children at various levels of need.

Key Competencies:

• A proven ability to respond to clinical/ethical dilemmas.
• Experience working closely with families, caregivers, and other professionals to support the child’s therapeutic goals.
• Ability to reflect on practice to facilitate personal learning, professional development, and service improvement.
• Proven skill in working collaboratively as part of a team and maintaining strong working relationships with external agencies and organizations.
• Empathy and understanding towards children’s needs and challenges.
• Flexibility and adaptability in working with diverse groups and varying needs.
• Excellent organisational and time management skills.

Application Process

• Interested candidates are invited to submit a CV and cover letter outlining their suitability for the role to tanya.bagenalstownfrc@gmail.com
• Please reference Play Therapist Application in the email subject line.
• Closing date: Wednesday 18th June 2025
• Garda Vetting and satisfactory references will be required.