Thomas Jefferson University United States

Community & Trauma Counseling/Child Trauma and Play Therapy, MS

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 2 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Postgraduate
Degree Masters Degree
Closing soon January 2027

Course Overview

The Master of Science in Community and Trauma Counseling with a concentration in Child Trauma and Play Therapy at Thomas Jefferson University is designed for aspiring therapists dedicated to supporting the emotional well-being of children and families affected by trauma. This postgraduate program equips you with specialized trauma competencies and the application of play therapy techniques, preparing you for impactful careers in mental health. You will delve into foundational and advanced counseling theories, psychopathology, and the neurobiology of trauma, gaining the essential knowledge to address complex challenges within diverse communities.

This full-time, on-campus program is structured over two years, offering a comprehensive curriculum that includes practicum and internship experiences. You will engage in hands-on learning through courses like Foundations of Child Centered Play Therapy and Childhood Trauma and Play Therapy, with specific modules contributing to Registered Play Therapist™ credentialing. You will graduate prepared for state licensure as a professional counselor (LPC) and national certification (NCC), equipped to pursue careers in clinical settings, schools, and community agencies, making a tangible difference in the lives of young clients.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This Master of Science program in Community & Trauma Counseling focuses on child trauma and play therapy. The curriculum is structured over two years, beginning with foundational courses in trauma counseling, counseling theory, psychopathology, and human development. Students will engage in pre-practicum and practicum experiences, alongside specialized modules on the neurobiology of trauma, group work, and addictive behaviors. The second year deepens clinical skills with advanced interventions, internships, and a significant focus on child-centered and directive play therapy approaches, culminating in an integrative seminar on intersectionality in play therapy.

1 YEAR 1

Foundations of Trauma Counseling
Orientation to the Counseling Profession
Psychopathology
Advanced Counseling Theory and Practice
Pre-Practicum
Human Growth and Development
Neurobiology of Trauma
Social and Cultural Diversity
Practicum I
Group Work in Community and Trauma Counseling/ Experiential Group
Foundations Trauma and Addictive BehaviorAttachment Family Therapy
Research and Evaluation

2 YEAR 2

Career Development
Advanced Clinical Interventions in Trauma Counseling I
Internship I
Foundations of Child Centered Play*
Childhood Trauma and Play Therapy*
Assessment in Counseling
Internship II
Historically significant approaches: directive play therapy*
Integrative Seminar: Intersectionality and Play Therapy*

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 31,512.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 31,512.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 63,024.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Food & Groceries USD 3,600.00 - USD 5,400.00
Transport USD 840.00 - USD 1,440.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,200.00 - USD 2,040.00
Estimated Total USD 5,640.00 - USD 8,880.00

Living cost estimates are based on East Falls Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

97%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Clinical & Medical ServicesHealth Technology & Digital HealthHealthcare Administration & ManagementHealthcare ConsultingHome Health & Long‑Term CareMedical Research & Clinical TrialsMental Health & CounselingNursing & Allied HealthPublic Health & EpidemiologyRehabilitation & Physiotherapy

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Jefferson Health

Main Line Health

Penn Medicine

Why Study Community & Trauma Counseling/Child Trauma and Play Therapy, MS at Thomas Jefferson University

What makes this program stand out

January 2027 Closing soon

Next intake is in January 2027

Very Fast Application response time

Thomas Jefferson University typically responds to applications within 1 - 2 days, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Life at Thomas Jefferson University in United States

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Community & Trauma Counseling/Child Trauma and Play Therapy, MS at Thomas Jefferson University

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks. On-campus work requires no special permits.

Is this qualification recognised internationally?

Yes. This course is accredited by Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs.

What English language score do I need for this course?

English proficiency is required through tests like Duolingo (overall score 115) or TOEFL (overall score 80). Other accepted tests include IELTS and PTE, each with specified minimum scores.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as LPCs, Registered Play Therapists, school counselors, or child therapists.

What will I actually study in this course?

Program Overview

The 66-credit MS degree in Community and Trauma Counseling PLUS Concentration in Child Trauma and Play Therapy trains exceptionally skilled child and adolescent therapists who are uniquely equipped with trauma competencies and knowledge, coupled with play therapy techniques and applications to support

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The program has two intake months: January and September. You can start your journey towards a career in Community and Trauma Counseling during either of these times.
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