Key Facts
Key Facts:
We are very excited at this new course development. This qualification has been developed at the request of learners who have completed, or are coming to the end of the Level 5 programme in Therapeutic Play Coaching. The Level 6 Diploma in Advanced Therapeutic Play Coaching is designed for practitioners who have completed the Level 5 Diploma in Therapeutic Play Coaching Practice or the Level 3 in Therapeutic Play Techniques (CACHE Certified) with appropriate other experience or study experiences. It builds on foundational skills, offering advanced techniques, critical analysis, and opportunities to specialise in complex and innovative areas of therapeutic play. Learners will deepen their expertise to support diverse populations and expand their capacity for leadership and innovation in the field.
Learners will have the opportunity to:
This Level 6 Diploma in Advanced Therapeutic Play Coaching equips our learners with the expertise to lead, innovate, and specialise in therapeutic play, supporting complex needs and advancing the field through research and practice.
The target audience are parents, childcare professionals in social care other, existing coaches in another coaching area, or anyone who has an interest in setting up their own practice as a Trauma-Informed Coach or Practitioner. Upon completion, learners will be able to gain ACCHP (Accredited Coaches, Counsellors, Hypnotherapists, and Psychotherapists) membership, the Association of Child and Family Coaches Badge of Excellence and apply for insurance with Westminster Indemnity to practice as a Coach or Practitioner.
Entry Requirements:
Learners will be asked to complete one of our Level 5 Therapeutic Play Coaching programme first, or a related Level 5 RQF/FdA/HND programme (such a Senior Early Years Practitioner, Education Studies, Childhood, or similar) alongside our Level 3 Diploma in Therapeutic Play Techniques.
If you have any queries around the entry requirements or wish to check your eligibility, please contact us.
This qualification is certified by the awarding organisation CACHE and accredited by the professional bodies: ACCPH and the Association of Child and Family Coaches.
We are very excited at this new course development. This qualification has been developed at the request of learners who have completed, or are coming to the end of the Level 5 programme in Therapeutic Play Coaching. The Level 6 Diploma in Advanced Therapeutic Play Coaching is designed for practitioners who have completed the Level 5 Diploma in Therapeutic Play Coaching Practice or the Level 3 in Therapeutic Play Techniques (CACHE Certified) with appropriate other experience or study experiences. It builds on foundational skills, offering advanced techniques, critical analysis, and opportunities to specialise in complex and innovative areas of therapeutic play. Learners will deepen their expertise to support diverse populations and expand their capacity for leadership and innovation in the field.
Learners will have the opportunity to:
- Deepen Expertise: To enhance learners' knowledge and skills in advanced therapeutic play techniques, building on their Level 5 foundation.
- Support Complex Needs: To prepare practitioners to work effectively with diverse populations, including children with trauma, neurodiverse conditions, and other complex needs.
- Innovate Practice: To empower learners to integrate innovative approaches, such as trauma-informed care, multisensory play, and digital tools, into therapeutic play settings.
- Lead and Advocate: To develop leadership, mentoring, and advocacy skills for promoting the importance of therapeutic play in professional and community contexts.
- Engage in Research and Development: To enable learners to conduct research, evaluate practices, and contribute to the evolving field of therapeutic play.
This Level 6 Diploma in Advanced Therapeutic Play Coaching equips our learners with the expertise to lead, innovate, and specialise in therapeutic play, supporting complex needs and advancing the field through research and practice.
The target audience are parents, childcare professionals in social care other, existing coaches in another coaching area, or anyone who has an interest in setting up their own practice as a Trauma-Informed Coach or Practitioner. Upon completion, learners will be able to gain ACCHP (Accredited Coaches, Counsellors, Hypnotherapists, and Psychotherapists) membership, the Association of Child and Family Coaches Badge of Excellence and apply for insurance with Westminster Indemnity to practice as a Coach or Practitioner.
Entry Requirements:
Learners will be asked to complete one of our Level 5 Therapeutic Play Coaching programme first, or a related Level 5 RQF/FdA/HND programme (such a Senior Early Years Practitioner, Education Studies, Childhood, or similar) alongside our Level 3 Diploma in Therapeutic Play Techniques.
If you have any queries around the entry requirements or wish to check your eligibility, please contact us.
This qualification is certified by the awarding organisation CACHE and accredited by the professional bodies: ACCPH and the Association of Child and Family Coaches.
Syllabus
Syllabus
The CACHE Level 6 Diploma in Advanced Therapeutic Play Coaching Practice is an advanced qualification designed for experienced practitioners looking to deepen their expertise in therapeutic play coaching. This course builds on foundational skills, offering innovative techniques, leadership development, and research-based practice to support children and young people with complex emotional, social, and developmental needs.
The course consists of seven in-depth units, each covering a critical aspect of therapeutic play practice.
Unit 1: Advanced Theories and Applications in Therapeutic Play
This unit delves into the most advanced theoretical frameworks that underpin therapeutic play, including neuroscience, attachment theories, and emerging research. Learners will critically evaluate how neuroscientific findings shape play-based interventions and how attachment theories influence child-led play therapy. The unit also explores cutting-edge techniques, such as eco-therapy, mindfulness-based play, and digital tools like virtual reality. By analysing real-world case studies, learners will apply their knowledge to design and evaluate effective play-based interventions for children with diverse needs.
Unit 2: Working with Complex Needs and Diverse Populations
In this unit, learners will explore how to adapt therapeutic play techniques for children facing complex challenges, including trauma, neurodiversity, sensory processing difficulties, and cultural barriers. The unit examines best practices for working with children from displaced backgrounds, those with additional learning needs, and those experiencing social or emotional difficulties. Learners will develop inclusive, play-based programmes and learn strategies to engage families and communities, recognising the essential role that caregivers play in a child’s therapeutic journey.
Unit 3: Leadership and Innovation in Therapeutic Play Practice
This unit is designed for those who wish to take a leadership role in therapeutic play practice. Learners will explore mentorship, supervision, and programme development, equipping them to support junior practitioners and lead multidisciplinary teams. The unit also focuses on fostering innovation by identifying opportunities to create new or adapted therapeutic play techniques. By critically evaluating the feasibility and impact of novel approaches, learners will be able to propose, develop, and implement innovative strategies that enhance play-based interventions.
Unit 4: Research and Professional Development
This unit supports learners in conducting independent research to advance their practice in therapeutic play. They will develop a research question, evaluate existing literature, and explore ethical considerations when working with children in a research context. Learners will also engage in reflective practice, developing frameworks to support ongoing learning, resilience, and professional growth. The unit highlights advanced training opportunities, networking, and supervision, ensuring that learners remain at the forefront of best practice in therapeutic play.
Unit 5: Trauma-Informed Approaches in Therapeutic Play
This unit provides an in-depth understanding of trauma and its impact on child development. Learners will explore how trauma manifests in play behaviours and how therapeutic play can support post-traumatic growth. The unit covers a range of trauma-sensitive techniques, such as storytelling, sensory play, movement-based interventions, and child-led play. Special focus is placed on working with parents and carers, equipping them with co-regulation strategies and play-based recovery techniques. Learners will evaluate case studies of trauma-informed interventionsto understand best practices in supporting children through play.
Unit 6: Therapeutic Play Coaching for Neurodiverse Children
This unit is tailored for professionals working with neurodiverse children, including those with autism, ADHD, sensory processing challenges, and other neurodiverse conditions. Learners will assess the unique play needs of neurodiverse children and explore sensory play, structured interventions, and strategies for self-regulation. The unit also examines how to balance structure and spontaneity in play-based interventions. Learners will gain insights into collaborating with families, educators, and therapists, ensuring a holistic and multidisciplinary approach to supporting neurodiverse children through play.
Unit 7: Ethics and Advocacy in Therapeutic Play
The final unit explores the ethical dimensions of therapeutic play practice, including confidentiality, informed consent, and ethical dilemmas in complex cases. Learners will critically evaluate the role of supervision in maintaining ethical standards and best practices. The unit also focuses on advocacy, providing strategies for promoting the importance of therapeutic play in professional and community settings. Learners will explore ways to influence policy, raise awareness, and ensure accessibility and inclusivity in therapeutic play services, making them leaders in the field.
The CACHE Level 6 Diploma in Advanced Therapeutic Play Coaching Practice is an advanced qualification designed for experienced practitioners looking to deepen their expertise in therapeutic play coaching. This course builds on foundational skills, offering innovative techniques, leadership development, and research-based practice to support children and young people with complex emotional, social, and developmental needs.
The course consists of seven in-depth units, each covering a critical aspect of therapeutic play practice.
Unit 1: Advanced Theories and Applications in Therapeutic Play
- Critically evaluate advanced theoretical frameworks in therapeutic play.
- Assess the integration of neuroscience in play-based approaches.
- Explore innovative techniques, including eco-therapy, mindfulness-based play, and digital tools.
- Apply advanced therapeutic play techniques to real-world case studies.
This unit delves into the most advanced theoretical frameworks that underpin therapeutic play, including neuroscience, attachment theories, and emerging research. Learners will critically evaluate how neuroscientific findings shape play-based interventions and how attachment theories influence child-led play therapy. The unit also explores cutting-edge techniques, such as eco-therapy, mindfulness-based play, and digital tools like virtual reality. By analysing real-world case studies, learners will apply their knowledge to design and evaluate effective play-based interventions for children with diverse needs.
Unit 2: Working with Complex Needs and Diverse Populations
- Adapt play-based interventions for children affected by trauma, neurodiversity, and sensory processing challenges.
- Explore cultural considerations in therapeutic play.
- Develop inclusive, play-based programmes for children with complex needs.
- Engage families and communities to enhance therapeutic play outcomes.
In this unit, learners will explore how to adapt therapeutic play techniques for children facing complex challenges, including trauma, neurodiversity, sensory processing difficulties, and cultural barriers. The unit examines best practices for working with children from displaced backgrounds, those with additional learning needs, and those experiencing social or emotional difficulties. Learners will develop inclusive, play-based programmes and learn strategies to engage families and communities, recognising the essential role that caregivers play in a child’s therapeutic journey.
Unit 3: Leadership and Innovation in Therapeutic Play Practice
- Develop leadership skills in therapeutic play practice.
- Explore strategies for mentoring and supervising junior practitioners.
- Lead therapeutic play programmes in multidisciplinary teams.
- Foster innovation by developing new or adapted therapeutic play techniques.
This unit is designed for those who wish to take a leadership role in therapeutic play practice. Learners will explore mentorship, supervision, and programme development, equipping them to support junior practitioners and lead multidisciplinary teams. The unit also focuses on fostering innovation by identifying opportunities to create new or adapted therapeutic play techniques. By critically evaluating the feasibility and impact of novel approaches, learners will be able to propose, develop, and implement innovative strategies that enhance play-based interventions.
Unit 4: Research and Professional Development
- Conduct research in therapeutic play, from literature reviews to ethical considerations.
- Develop a reflective practice framework to support professional growth.
- Explore opportunities for advanced training, supervision, and networking.
- Critically analyse research findings to inform best practices.
This unit supports learners in conducting independent research to advance their practice in therapeutic play. They will develop a research question, evaluate existing literature, and explore ethical considerations when working with children in a research context. Learners will also engage in reflective practice, developing frameworks to support ongoing learning, resilience, and professional growth. The unit highlights advanced training opportunities, networking, and supervision, ensuring that learners remain at the forefront of best practice in therapeutic play.
Unit 5: Trauma-Informed Approaches in Therapeutic Play
- Understand the impact of trauma on children’s play and development.
- Apply trauma-sensitive play techniques, including storytelling and sensory play.
- Engage parents/carers in co-regulation and trauma-informed interventions.
- Evaluate case studies of trauma-sensitive play interventions.
This unit provides an in-depth understanding of trauma and its impact on child development. Learners will explore how trauma manifests in play behaviours and how therapeutic play can support post-traumatic growth. The unit covers a range of trauma-sensitive techniques, such as storytelling, sensory play, movement-based interventions, and child-led play. Special focus is placed on working with parents and carers, equipping them with co-regulation strategies and play-based recovery techniques. Learners will evaluate case studies of trauma-informed interventionsto understand best practices in supporting children through play.
Unit 6: Therapeutic Play Coaching for Neurodiverse Children
- Assess the unique play needs of neurodiverse children (e.g., autism, ADHD).
- Adapt play-based interventions to support emotional regulation and communication.
- Balance structure and spontaneity in play sessions.
- Collaborate with families, educators, and therapists to enhance therapeutic outcomes.
This unit is tailored for professionals working with neurodiverse children, including those with autism, ADHD, sensory processing challenges, and other neurodiverse conditions. Learners will assess the unique play needs of neurodiverse children and explore sensory play, structured interventions, and strategies for self-regulation. The unit also examines how to balance structure and spontaneity in play-based interventions. Learners will gain insights into collaborating with families, educators, and therapists, ensuring a holistic and multidisciplinary approach to supporting neurodiverse children through play.
Unit 7: Ethics and Advocacy in Therapeutic Play
- Maintain ethical standards in advanced therapeutic play practice.
- Explore informed consent, confidentiality, and resolving ethical dilemmas.
- Advocate for therapeutic play as a key intervention in child development.
- Promote inclusivity and accessibility in therapeutic play practices.
The final unit explores the ethical dimensions of therapeutic play practice, including confidentiality, informed consent, and ethical dilemmas in complex cases. Learners will critically evaluate the role of supervision in maintaining ethical standards and best practices. The unit also focuses on advocacy, providing strategies for promoting the importance of therapeutic play in professional and community settings. Learners will explore ways to influence policy, raise awareness, and ensure accessibility and inclusivity in therapeutic play services, making them leaders in the field.
Assignments
Assessments
Learners will be assessed through a portfolio-based approach, ensuring they can demonstrate both theoretical understanding and practical application of advanced therapeutic play techniques. The assessment methods include:
Each unit's evidence will be compiled into a comprehensive portfolio, which will be assessed against the learning outcomes and professional competencies of the course. The flexible nature of the assignments ensures accessibility for learners working in different professional settings.
Learners will be assessed through a portfolio-based approach, ensuring they can demonstrate both theoretical understanding and practical application of advanced therapeutic play techniques. The assessment methods include:
- Case Study Evaluations – Learners will analyse real or simulated case studies, identifying best practices, ethical considerations, and areas for intervention.
- Intervention Plans – Learners will design and justify intervention plans tailored to different needs, such as trauma, neurodiversity, and family engagement.
- Reflective Practice Journals – Ongoing self-reflection and critical analysis of their learning journey, including personal insights and areas for professional growth.
- Research Projects – Learners will conduct research on a relevant topic, critically evaluating literature, ethical considerations, and implications for practice.
- Practical Application Tasks – Learners will develop, trial, and evaluate therapeutic play strategies, demonstrating the ability to apply knowledge in a practical setting.
- Written Assignments – Learners will submit essays or reports exploring key theoretical frameworks, leadership in play practice, and advocacy strategies.
- Professional Discussion & Supervision Reflections – Learners may engage in recorded professional discussions or reflections on supervision experiences, highlighting best practices and ethical considerations.
Each unit's evidence will be compiled into a comprehensive portfolio, which will be assessed against the learning outcomes and professional competencies of the course. The flexible nature of the assignments ensures accessibility for learners working in different professional settings.
F.A.Qs
F.A.Qs
Can I run a therapeutic practice with this course?
Upon completion of this course, which is certified by the Ofqual-regulated awarding organisation, CACHE, you will be able to apply for professional membership with the ACCPH. The ACCPH is a professional body for coaches, counsellors, and psychotherapists. With their membership, you will be able to apply for insurance to practice. You are also able to list your services on their site. Please bear in mind, that to practice, you will need to take additional considerations for working with children, young people, and vulnerable adults, including undertaking an enhanced DBS certificate.
Is the course online?
The course is a mixture of synchronous and asynchronous in its learning but is entirely online. You will complete a mixture of live online sessions over the Zoom platform, engaging in the practical skills to enhance your therapeutic role from the skills you learnt in your Level 3 Therapeutic Play Techniques and/or Level 5 Therapeutic Play Coaching Diplomas. In addition, you will study the knowledge-based elements via our online, interactive platform.
What happens if I don't complete on time?
Firstly, we understand that life happens. If you get into any issues with timings, please reach out. The course is not an easy course, it is a level 6 qualification. However, we are here to help. You can also book 121 sessions with your tutor if you need additional support. If you need longer, let us know. The stipulations are as follows (as per our T&Cs) - you must make a submission inside a 365 day period, or you will become deregisterd. You are also required to complete within a 3-year period, as per awarding organisation requirements.
Do I receive a certificate?
You will receive your level 6 certificate from CACHE, the awarding body, and an accredited certificate from the ACCPH, and a badge of excellence from the Association of Child and Family Coaches. CACHE certificates take up to 12 weeks after completion to arrive. Please note, we send certificates once all payments are settled if you have chosen to pay by installments.
What if I have not studied at level 6 before?
Level 6 is equivalent in its level of study to the third year of an undergraduate degree. Due to the contents of the course, you will have been required to meet one of the following:
- The Level 3 in therapeutic Play Techniques and a Level 5 in an allied subject such as early Years or Education (or the Level 3 plus related demonstratable experience equivalent to the level 5)
- The Level 5 in Therapeutic Play Coaching.
With the above, and our support with the academic demands, you will be able to succeed at level 6.
When can I start?
At NCCE, we have rolling start dates. You can begin your learning at any time. Once you have paid for your course, or paid your deposit, you will be given access to your personalised portfolio within 24 hours.
How long does it take?
When you first enrol with us, you will develop a Personal Learning Plan with your tutor, adding target dates that you can fit around your current commitments and lifestyle. We recommend that you spend between 4 and 6 weeks on a unit or block, but that can be extended or shortened. You have control over your learning journey and we support you every step of the way.
What support do I get?
At NCCE, all our qualifications are delivered through a blend of online interactive learning with as many 121 live sessions on Zoom with your personal tutor as you need. These sessions are available to book in the day, evening, and during a weekend using your tutor's interactive calendar, which is accessible directly from your NCCE Learning Centre account.
What if I have more questions?
Please click on "Talk to Us!" at the top of this page and we will reach out to you!
Can I run a therapeutic practice with this course?
Upon completion of this course, which is certified by the Ofqual-regulated awarding organisation, CACHE, you will be able to apply for professional membership with the ACCPH. The ACCPH is a professional body for coaches, counsellors, and psychotherapists. With their membership, you will be able to apply for insurance to practice. You are also able to list your services on their site. Please bear in mind, that to practice, you will need to take additional considerations for working with children, young people, and vulnerable adults, including undertaking an enhanced DBS certificate.
Is the course online?
The course is a mixture of synchronous and asynchronous in its learning but is entirely online. You will complete a mixture of live online sessions over the Zoom platform, engaging in the practical skills to enhance your therapeutic role from the skills you learnt in your Level 3 Therapeutic Play Techniques and/or Level 5 Therapeutic Play Coaching Diplomas. In addition, you will study the knowledge-based elements via our online, interactive platform.
What happens if I don't complete on time?
Firstly, we understand that life happens. If you get into any issues with timings, please reach out. The course is not an easy course, it is a level 6 qualification. However, we are here to help. You can also book 121 sessions with your tutor if you need additional support. If you need longer, let us know. The stipulations are as follows (as per our T&Cs) - you must make a submission inside a 365 day period, or you will become deregisterd. You are also required to complete within a 3-year period, as per awarding organisation requirements.
Do I receive a certificate?
You will receive your level 6 certificate from CACHE, the awarding body, and an accredited certificate from the ACCPH, and a badge of excellence from the Association of Child and Family Coaches. CACHE certificates take up to 12 weeks after completion to arrive. Please note, we send certificates once all payments are settled if you have chosen to pay by installments.
What if I have not studied at level 6 before?
Level 6 is equivalent in its level of study to the third year of an undergraduate degree. Due to the contents of the course, you will have been required to meet one of the following:
- The Level 3 in therapeutic Play Techniques and a Level 5 in an allied subject such as early Years or Education (or the Level 3 plus related demonstratable experience equivalent to the level 5)
- The Level 5 in Therapeutic Play Coaching.
With the above, and our support with the academic demands, you will be able to succeed at level 6.
When can I start?
At NCCE, we have rolling start dates. You can begin your learning at any time. Once you have paid for your course, or paid your deposit, you will be given access to your personalised portfolio within 24 hours.
How long does it take?
When you first enrol with us, you will develop a Personal Learning Plan with your tutor, adding target dates that you can fit around your current commitments and lifestyle. We recommend that you spend between 4 and 6 weeks on a unit or block, but that can be extended or shortened. You have control over your learning journey and we support you every step of the way.
What support do I get?
At NCCE, all our qualifications are delivered through a blend of online interactive learning with as many 121 live sessions on Zoom with your personal tutor as you need. These sessions are available to book in the day, evening, and during a weekend using your tutor's interactive calendar, which is accessible directly from your NCCE Learning Centre account.
What if I have more questions?
Please click on "Talk to Us!" at the top of this page and we will reach out to you!
