About Us
The Association for Play Therapy, Inc. (APT) is a national organization dedicated to the advancement of play, play therapy and credentialed play therapists. Founded in 1982, by Dr. Charles Schaefer, APT it is comprised interdisciplinary members, from the US and internationally, sharing a wide range of theoretical orientations.
APT defines play therapy as:
“the systematic use of a theoretical model to establish an interpersonal process wherein trained play therapists use the therapeutic powers of play to help clients prevent or resolve psychosocial difficulties and achieve optimal growth and development.”
The NYAPT is a chartered state branch through the Association for Play Therapy. Chartered in 1996, we are a non-profit, tax-exempt professional organization offering specialized training and information on play therapy. The NYAPT was awarded Gold Branch status in 2004, 2006, 2010, 2011 and 2013.
Our goals are:
- To provide ongoing professional development
- To provide training, research, and development of materials to further the practice of play therapy
- To provide a forum for communication regarding play therapy
- To inform and educate the general public and mental health community about play therapy
- To encourage the participation of families in children’s play therapy
- To advocate for children and their families
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