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If you’ve ever wondered how to set up a sand tray during play therapy sessions in a way that feels intentional, grounded, and supportive of your client’s nervous system, this episode is your new BFF.

We’re diving into the essentials — starting with how to introduce the sand tray using child-centered, non-directive prompts and when to lean into thoughtful directive prompts that still honor the client’s process.

Then we’ll get real about boundaries (aka the invisible safety net of every play therapy session). 

You’ll hear the simple sand tray rules I use with kids that protect the relationship, keep the playroom regulated, and prevent chaos like nerf-gun warfare or miniature avalanches.

We’ll also look at how to organize your miniatures so the unconscious can actually grab what it needs — from category-based shelving to keeping everything clean, visible, and intentional.

And of course, we’ll dig into choosing your sand and trays — from why high-quality sand matters for sensory regulation to how the shape and size of your tray changes the experience for your client.

Whether you’re setting up your first sand tray or refreshing your current setup, this episode gives you the practical foundations that help clients go deeper, feel safer, and engage more meaningfully in the sand.

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Check out my free resources for mental health professionals working with children, adolescents, and families who want to integrate play therapy and expressive arts into their clinical work.

I work with individuals and agencies to develop successful strategies and meet the treatment needs of your child and adolescent clients and their families using play therapy & expressive arts.

Contact me to schedule a free 30-minute video call if you're ready to level up your skills