Awards of Excellence
Indiana Association for Play Therapy Award for Excellence in Leadership
This award honors a play therapy professional whose leadership has significantly advanced the field and strengthened the community of play therapists in Indiana. Recipients demonstrate a sustained commitment to elevating play therapy through advocacy, innovation, and/or service. Their leadership inspires others, fosters collaboration, and significantly contributes to the growth and credibility of the play therapy community. Awardees must be licensed in the state of IN, must be members of IN-APT, and preference may be given to those with play therapy credentialing (RPT™, RPT-S™, or SB-RPT™).
Past Award Recipients of the Yvonne Williams Award of Merit for Innovative Service to the Profession of Play Therapy
2019 Jill Hunsberger
2017 Dr. Catherine Tucker
2016 Joyce Menchinger
2015 no award given
2014 Dan Lima
Indiana Association for Play Therapy Award for Excellence in Supervision
This award recognizes a supervisor who exemplifies the highest standards of mentorship in play therapy. Recipients demonstrate exceptional skills in guiding, supporting, and developing emerging clinicians. They create a learning environment grounded in the Therapeutic Powers of Play, ethical practice, reflective growth, and clinical curiosity. Their dedication to nurturing competent, confident play therapists strengthens the profession for generations to come. Awardees must have the RPT-S™ credential, be licensed in the state of IN, and an IN-APT member.
Past Award Recipients of the Vivian Thompson Award of Merit for Contribution to Play Therapy
2013 ISU Clinical Mental Health Program
2012 Marsha McCarty
2011 Christine Raches, U of I
2010 Milestones
2009 Trails of Hope
Indiana Association for Play Therapy Award for Clinical Excellence
This award celebrates a clinician who demonstrates outstanding mastery in the therapeutic use of play. Recipients show deep attunement, creativity, and clinical insight in their work with children and families. Their practice reflects the core values of play therapy—respect for the child’s inner world, belief in the healing power of play, and commitment to ethical, evidence-based care. Their clinical excellence is recognized by referral sources, community partners, and the families they serve. Awardees must be licensed in the state of IN, members of IN-APT, and hold a play therapy credential (RPT™, RPT-S™, or SB-RPT™).
Past Award Recipients of the InAPT Award of Merit for Research in Play Therapy
2024 Davi Stein-Kiley
2006 Dan Diehl
2000 Leslie Knight
Please email nominations to Board President: Amanda at presinapt@gmail.com by May 20, 2026. Nominations received after the deadline will not be eligible for consideration.
Thank you for your nomination!