Training Objectives

Level One

Basic Tools and Methods: Experiencing the Tray

Learn about and discuss important influencers on the development of play therapy and sandtray therapy.
Evaluate the challenges and benefits of providing play therapy and sandtray to clients.
Explore the multi-cultural aspects of sandtray and play therapy.
Learn to create a "free and protected" space for all clients.
Understand the therapeutic process of building rapport with clients involved in play therapy and sandtray.
Practice the play therapy process of building and witnessing sandtrays.
Will consider the neurobiology processes and benefits regarding the use of sandtray and play therapy with clients.

Basic Clinical Skills and Theory: Using the Symbolic Language of Play (Prerequisite Level 1)

Practice therapeutic skills in facilitating sandtray in the context of play therapy.
Identify the important reasons for attunement with the client during play therapy.
Apply therapeutic skills needed as witness in the therapy process.
Read and discuss the APT Best Practices of documentation in play therapy and how it can be accomplished in sandtray.
Discuss and explain the influence of the therapist on interpersonal neurobiology in the therapeutic process during play therapy and sandtray.
Identify attachment challenges and learn therapeutic approaches to increase positive outcomes.

Symbolic Integration and Theory: Translating Play/Symbolic Language into Verbal Language Using Various Theoretical Orientations

(Prerequisite Levels 1-2)

Apply therapeutic skills in facilitating sandtray in play therapy sessions.
Apply different theoretical perspectives in the sandtray and play therapy process.
Identify archetypes to be considered in play therapy and sandtray.
Discuss Benedict's Play Themes as they relate to the work of play therapy and sandtray.
Discuss the potential influence of play therapy and sandtray on epigenetic expression.
Describe potential barriers to adult play processes in sandtray therapy play therapy.
Identify and practice advance processing and reflecting skills.

Advanced Clinical Skills: Diagnosis, Treatment Planning, Transference and Ethical Issues

(Prerequisite Levels 1-3)

Identify necessary elements in providing effective, high quality environments for sandtray and play therapy.
Discuss the neurobiological processes related to sandtray and play therapy.
Identify and discuss the role authenticity plays in accomplishing positive therapeutic outcomes.
Describe observable somatic indicators of fight, flight, & freeze during sandtray and play therapy sessions.
Discuss and explore 6 ethical principles of play therapy.
Identify how to apply APT best practices to sandtray and play therapy sessions.