Play therapist

What does a play therapist do? – Tasks and work environment

A play therapist works with helping individuals who have problems with gambling addiction or risky gambling behaviors. Tasks include offering individual counseling, leading group treatments, and working on preventative measures to reduce gambling-related harm. Play therapists often collaborate with other professionals in social services, addiction treatment, and sometimes with relatives of those with gambling problems. The work environment is typically a treatment facility, a social office, or a clinic, where meetings with clients happen both physically and digitally. The job requires high empathy and good knowledge of addiction issues and current legislation.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, the salary for play therapists has steadily increased. In 2022, the average salary was 33,200 SEK per month, which increased to 34 800 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary is 36 100 SEK, representing a total increase of approximately 8.7% over this period. This salary growth can partly be explained by increased awareness of gambling addiction issues and a higher demand for specialized personnel in the field. Despite a relatively stable job market, the profession has benefited from investments in preventative work and improved conditions within the public sector.

Play therapist salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 36 100 SEK/month
• Lowest salary (women/men): 31,800 SEK / 32,400 SEK
• Highest salary (women/men): 41,500 SEK / 39,200 SEK
• Hourly wage (average): 217 SEK
• Gender pay gap: Women earn 98% of men's salary (35 900 SEK vs. 36 500 SEK)
• Regional differences: Data not available

Education and qualifications

To work as a play therapist, a post-secondary education in social work, psychology, or addiction treatment is generally required. Many employers prefer a degree in social work or equivalent, supplemented with specialized courses in gambling addiction and treatment. Practical experience from treatment work and good insight into gambling issues are highly meritorious.

• Social work degree: 3.5 years at university/higher education
• Specialized courses in gambling addiction: 1–2 semesters, often remote
• Internship: Usually during education
• Additional certifications: Courses in MI (Motivational Interviewing), CBT or similar
• Prerequisites: Experience working with addiction issues is an advantage

Common benefits and compensations

Play therapists within the public sector are often offered benefits such as wellness allowances, extra vacation days, and occupational pension. Many employers also offer supervision, professional development, and flexible working hours. Some workplaces provide access to occupational health services and subsidized training.

Competition and challenges

The profession of play therapist is part of a broad occupational group where competition for positions is relatively balanced. There are about 237 job openings nationwide, indicating demand but also some competition for attractive workplaces. Challenges include managing complex client cases, staying updated with current research and legislation, and working preventively in a rapidly changing gambling market. Meeting clients in crisis requires resilience and the ability to handle emotional stress. Additionally, the role may involve responsibility for documentation and collaboration with other authorities.

Tips for aspiring play therapists

To succeed as a play therapist, it is beneficial to have strong empathy and listening skills, as clients' situations are often sensitive and complex. Developing patience and perseverance is crucial, as the process of overcoming gambling addiction can be lengthy. Analytical skills help identify patterns and risk factors in clients, making treatment more effective. It is also important to collaborate and communicate clearly with colleagues and relatives, especially when coordinating different support measures. Continuing education in addiction and using evidence-based methods strengthen the professional role. Flexibility facilitates adaptation to new treatment approaches and changes in legislation. Finally, maintaining strong integrity builds trust and safety in client interactions.

Key facts about Play Therapist

• Average salary: 36 100 SEK/month
• Salary range: 31,800–41,500 SEK/month
• Educational requirements: Degree in social work or equivalent
• Work environment: Treatment unit, social office, or clinic
• Demand: 237 job openings nationwide

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, a play therapist can advance to roles such as coordinator, method developer, or manager within addiction treatment. Further education in psychotherapy or specialization in areas such as youth or family work opens additional career opportunities. According to the Employment Service, the job prospects are assessed as moderate and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. The recruitment situation is characterized by balance, meaning there is neither a shortage nor an oversupply of play therapists nationwide. The profession offers stable future prospects, especially for those willing to further their education and take on new responsibilities in the field.

Frequently asked questions about Play Therapist

• What does a play therapist earn?
  - A play therapist has an average salary of 36 100 SEK per month. The salary range varies from 31,800 SEK to 41,500 SEK depending on experience, education, and sector.
• Are there gender differences in play therapist salaries?
  - Yes, women earn an average of 35 900 SEK and men 36 500 SEK, which means women earn 98% of men's salaries.
• What education is required to become a play therapist?
  - Most commonly, a degree in social work or equivalent, along with specialized courses in gambling addiction.
• What are the future prospects for play therapists?
  - The forecast indicates moderate demand and a balanced job market, with stable employment opportunities according to the Employment Service.
• What work environments are common for play therapists?
  - Treatment units, social services, addiction clinics, and sometimes digital consultations.
• How has the salary development been for play therapists?
  - The salary has increased positively by approximately 8.7% over the last three years.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - No available data on regional salary differences for play therapists.