Building a Future of Ethical AI in Play Therapy The role of AI in play therapy will undoubtedly expand in the coming years. As such, innovations in natural language processing, emotion  will continue to transform therapeutic practices. Play therapists must steadfastly commit to ethical principles in order to harness these 


Play therapists can ensure that AI a valuable ally and an extension of one’s practice rather than a substitute for human care by prioritizing         toward ethical AI integration requires technological advancement and a collective dedication to preserving the heart of play therapy: the 


Conclusion As noted throughout this article, AI holds immense potential to revolutionize play therapy, making it more accessible, effective, and   of AI adheres to the highest ethical standards. Play therapists, therefore, must navigate the complex landscape of innovation and ethics, embracing AI to enhance—never replace—the human touch at the core of therapeutic success and the therapeutic power of play. By addressing challenges with foresight and care, the future of AI in play 


References Association for Play Therapy [APT]. (2025a). About APT. https://www.  Association for Play Therapy. (2025b). Play therapy best practices: Clinical, professional and ethical issues. https://www.a4pt.org/page/ 


ABOUT THE AUTHOR


Margaret Hindman, PhD, LPC, RPT™, is a remote Assistant Professor at St. Bonaventure University, primarily teaching ethics and play therapy coursework. She serves on APT’s ethics and research committees, with much of her clinical work focused on children and families in  mhindman@sbu.edu


Kurt W. Oster, LICSW-S, LCSW-QS, RPT™ is the Owner and CEO of VonOstir Innovation Services, PLLC and is an internationally acclaimed children’s and young adult author. He serves on APT’s ethics committee, and his work is focused on teaching and clinical practice with LGBTQ and  


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www.a4pt.org | March 2025 | PLAYTHERAPY | 27 Empower your Career. Empower your Clients. Empower your Career. Empower your Clients.


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