Sandtray for Beginners: Experiential Learning Where Theory and Practice Connect – August 2026

August 15th & August 16th, 2026 (Both Days Are Required)
Time: 8:00 AM – 3:30 PM CST

Location:

Garrett Counseling – Leeds
8525 Whitfield Ave, Suite 101
Leeds, AL 35094

Program Content Description:

This is a two-day introductory workshop that teaches the basics of Sandtray and Sandplay ® , in play therapy, knowledge. Counselors will gain insight into foundational components of sandtray/play. Counselors will increase their knowledge in order to offer clients this experiential healing opportunity of self-expression, gaining access to the unconscious, and empowerment through creative problem-solving. Beginners Level.

Learning Objectives:

At the end of this workshop learns will be able to:

1. Identify the therapeutic relationship that is utilized in the Sandtray experience.
2. Explain how to gain access to the unconscious in both Sandtray and in Sand Play ®.
3. List common themes in play therapy when utilizing Sandtray techniques.
4. Describe different theories that can be used to help play therapy clients practice more adaptive and pro-social ways of solving problems and interacting with others through Sandtray directives.
5. Identify best play therapy practices for when to use Sandtray.
6. Identify best play therapy practices for using Sand Play ®.
7. Become familiar with and use two directive Sandtray techniques to utilize for clients to explore self-regulation.
8. Become familiar with and be able to model non-directive Sandtray skills, such as reflections, tracking, and “I wonder” statements.
9. Explain three techniques used to document play therapy using Sandtray for reimbursement in a clinical note.
10. Be able to self explore and learn through directive play therapy techniques for Sandtray.
11. Personally experience and then lead a client in directive play techniques, guided by reflecting and tracking.
12. Identify of how play therapy in a Sandtray can be used with adolescence to adulthood.

12.00 NBCC Hours
12.00 Clock Hours – APT Approved Provider No. 15-430 [Theory: 3 Hours; Skills & Methods: 9 Hours]

Presented by:

Dr. Ashley Garrett – PhD, LPC-S, RPT-S, NCC & Founder

Dr. Garrett holds a PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision from Walden University. She also has an Education Specialist degree and a Master’s in Agency Counseling from Jacksonville State University. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor (#0856), National Certified Counselor, Registered Play Therapist–Supervisor, and CCE Approved Clinical Supervisor (ACS #4357). Since 2009, she has worked full-time in private practice, specializing in counseling for children, adolescents, families, and adults facing challenges such as trauma, anxiety, and grief. She also leads trainings, seminars, and supervision programs across the U.S. and internationally.

Brave Play has been approved by NBCC as an Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 6763. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. Brave Play is solely responsible for all aspects of the programs.