In the world of play therapy, it’s common for clinicians to accumulate a long list of trainings. Over time, many therapists find themselves certified in multiple modalities, fluent in various techniques, and continually seeking the next CEU to add to their professional toolbox. While ongoing learning is valuable, this pattern can quietly create an unintended problem: breadth without depth.
Child-Centered Play Therapy (CCPT) is often misunderstood in this context. It is sometimes approached as one more modality to integrate, rather than as a comprehensive theoretical orientation that requires full commitment. Yet CCPT was never designed to be a technique layered onto an eclectic or integrative approach. Its roots—and its effectiveness—tell a very different story.
The Person-Centered Foundations of CCPT
CCPT is firmly grounded in person-centered theory, originally articulated by Carl Rogers. Rogers proposed that meaningful therapeutic change occurs not through techniques or interventions, but through the quality of the therapeutic relationship. He identified core conditions—empathy, congruence, and unconditional positive regard—as the primary agents of growth, rooted in the belief that individuals possess an innate capacity for self-actualization when provided the right environment.
Virginia Axline translated these principles into the world of play therapy, preserving the heart of person-centered theory while adapting it to children’s natural language of play. Her work emphasized non-directivity, deep respect for the child’s internal process, and trust in the child’s ability to move toward growth at their own pace.
From its inception, CCPT was not a collection of techniques or skills. It was—and remains—a philosophical stance, a way of being with children that permeates every therapeutic decision.
Why CCPT Functions as a Specialization
Because CCPT is grounded in a cohesive theoretical framework, it functions best when practiced as a specialization rather than an add-on. The therapist’s responses, limit-setting, emotional presence, and interpretation of play all emerge from the same underlying principles. When CCPT is practiced inconsistently or combined with directive approaches that conflict with its philosophy, the integrity of the model is diluted.
Therapists who attempt to “use CCPT sometimes” often experience uncertainty in the playroom—especially during challenging moments. Questions arise: Should I intervene here? Should I teach a skill? Should I redirect this play? Without a clear theoretical anchor, decision-making becomes fragmented.
Specialization provides clarity. It allows therapists to respond consistently, confidently, and intentionally—because every choice is grounded in the same model.
The Case for Commitment: Dr. Brenna Hicks’ Perspective
Dr. Brenna Hicks, one of Core Wellness’ trainers and a long-time advocate for CCPT, strongly encourages therapists to commit fully to one theoretical model rather than attempting to integrate many. Her perspective is shaped by decades of clinical practice, supervision, and training therapists around the world.
According to Dr. Hicks, mastery does not come from exposure to multiple models—it comes from deep immersion in one. Commitment allows therapists to recognize patterns more quickly, trust the therapeutic process more fully, and remain grounded when progress feels slow or uncertain. Over time, this depth of understanding translates into greater confidence, clearer articulation with parents, and more consistent outcomes for children.
Mastery is not about doing more. It is about doing less—more intentionally.
How Specialization Improves Clinical Outcomes
When therapists specialize in CCPT, everyone benefits.
Children experience consistency, predictability, and a therapeutic environment that honors their internal world. Parents encounter a therapist who can clearly explain the process, set appropriate expectations, and confidently articulate the rationale behind the work. Therapists themselves experience reduced self-doubt, stronger professional identity, and a clearer path for continued growth.
Specialization supports not only clinical effectiveness, but professional sustainability.
Moving From Training to Mastery
Learning CCPT is an important first step—but it is only the beginning. True mastery requires intentional practice, ongoing reflection, and a willingness to return to foundational principles again and again. In many disciplines, revisiting fundamentals is considered an advanced skill. Play therapy is no different.
For therapists who are ready to move beyond collecting trainings and toward fully embodying a model, deeper immersion matters.
This distinction—between learning CCPT and practicing it as a specialization—is at the heart of ongoing professional conversations within the CCPT community.
For clinicians interested in exploring CCPT as a true specialization, Core Wellness is hosting CCPT: The Field of Dreams, a two-day immersive, in-person training led by Dr. Brenna Hicks in Tampa, Florida. The training focuses on foundational CCPT principles, the path toward mastery, and engaging parents within a child-centered framework.
Learn more about the event and registration details here:
