Child & Youth Therapist (RSW), Independent Contractor

Company Description Northern Play Therapy provides specialized psychotherapy services for children, youth, and families, with a strong focus on trauma-informed care. The team is trained in evidence-based approaches such as EMDR, CBT, DBT, arts-based, and play-based therapies, allowing treatment to be tailored to each child’s developmental and emotional needs. The organization collaborates closely with healthcare providers, educators, and community partners to ensure coordinated and comprehensive support. By offering a safe, engaging therapeutic environment, Northern Play Therapy helps children process difficult experiences, build emotional regulation skills, and strengthen relationships with caregivers. The practice is committed to compassionate, effective services that help young people and families thrive. Role Description The Child & Youth Therapist (RSW), Independent Contractor, provides direct psychotherapy services to children and youth, primarily through play-based and other developmentally appropriate modalities. This contract role is on-site in Sudbury, ON, and involves conducting assessments, developing treatment plans, and delivering individual and family sessions. Day-to-day responsibilities include maintaining accurate clinical documentation, coordinating care with healthcare providers and schools, and participating in case consultations as needed. The therapist will use evidence-based approaches and complete play therapy training, while ensuring a safe, inclusive, and culturally responsive environment for children and their caregivers. The role also includes collaborating with the Northern Play Therapy team on best practices and contributing to a supportive clinical culture. Qualifications Registered Social Worker (RSW) in good standing with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW). Demonstrated skills in child and youth psychotherapy, including play-based, arts-based, and trauma-informed approaches (e.g., EMDR, CBT, DBT). Experience in clinical assessment, treatment planning, and goal-focused intervention with children, adolescents, and families. Strong skills in rapport-building, emotional attunement, and working with caregivers to support children’s progress. Excellent clinical documentation, case management, and organizational skills, with attention to confidentiality and ethical practice. Ability to collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary partners, including healthcare providers, educators, and community organizations. Comfort working as an independent contractor, including managing schedules, caseloads, and professional boundaries. Master’s degree in Social Work or related field preferred; additional training or certification in play therapy or trauma modalities is an asset. Experience with diverse populations and a commitment to equity, inclusion, and culturally responsive practice. Professional liability insurance, or willingness to obtain.

The therapist provides direct psychotherapy to children and youth using play-based and developmentally appropriate modalities. Responsibilities include conducting assessments, developing treatment plans, and coordinating care with healthcare providers and schools.

Candidates must be a Registered Social Worker in good standing with the OCSWSSW and possess skills in trauma-informed and play-based therapies. A Master's degree in Social Work or a related field is preferred.

Identified from the job description. Confirm important requirements above.

• Child and Youth Psychotherapy
• Play-based Therapy
• Trauma-informed Care
• EMDR
• CBT
• DBT
• Clinical Assessment
• Treatment Planning
• Rapport-building
• Case Management
• Clinical Documentation
• Multidisciplinary Collaboration

• Healthcare
• Social Services
• Education

Minimum education

Master’s degree

Minimum experience

2+ years

Apply by

Sep 19, 2026

Posting language

English

Working hours

40 hours per week

Seniority

Entry level

Application method

Direct apply is available