About CBPT Sandtray course
Sandtray Therapy is an expressive, symbolic modality that uses a standardized tray (20″×29″×3″) partially filled with wet or dry sand and a curated selection of miniatures to facilitate nonverbal expression of thoughts and emotions in children and adolescents. Originating from Margaret Lowenfeld’s World Technique, it welcomes multiple theoretical orientations and balances both non‐directed trays (spontaneous static and moving scenes) and directed interventions (interactive trays, tailored prompts, story‐guided activities). The tactile and kinesthetic qualities of sand create a safe, bounded space that fosters therapeutic distance, symbolic exploration, and experiential learning. Therapists employ observation and reflection—asking clients to title their tray, describe scenes, and dialogue with figures—to identify themes, reinforce coping strategies, and promote generalization of skills across contexts. Through modeling, metaphors, and role‐play, adaptive behaviors are introduced and consolidated. This course unfolds over four lessons covering the historical and theoretical foundations, tray types and developmental considerations, processing and elaboration techniques, and real‐world case studies with supporting research.
CBPT and Sandtray Course Objectives
At the end of this module, participants should be able to:
- Describe the historical roots and theoretical foundations of Sandtray Therapy, including Margaret Lowenfeld’s World Technique and Dora Kalff’s sandplay contributions.
- Explain the core principles and therapeutic functions of sandtray work: nonverbal expression, symbolic containment, therapeutic distance, and tactile/kinesthetic engagement.
- Identify age-and-stage considerations—how tray type (non-directed vs. directed) and metaphorical development evolve from early preschool through adolescence.
- Select and apply both non-directed (spontaneous static/moving trays) and directed (interactive trays, tailored prompts, story-guided scenes) sandtray interventions with preschool and school-age clients.
- Employ observation, tracking, and processing techniques—such as titling the tray, scene description, dialoguing with miniatures, and metaphor exploration—to reinforce coping strategies and bridge learning across sessions.
- Integrate sandtray exercises within broader play therapy or CBT frameworks, demonstrating how sand-based metaphors and role-play foster skill generalization and relapse prevention.
- Differentiate Sandtray Therapy from other play modalities by outlining its unique setup, logistical requirements, facilitation rules, and evidence-informed case applications.
CBPT and Sandtray Course Requirements
The course is aimed at:
- Psychiatrists
- Psychologists
- Clinical Social Workers Or Licensed Independent Social Workers
- Licensed Professional Counselors
- Licensed Marriage And Family Therapist
- Licensed Mental Health Clinical Nurse Practitioner
The delivery of the certificate of attendance at the conclusion of the course will be tied to the evaluation of the participants' requirements. In the absence of the requirements, the course hours will not be certified.
CBPT and Sandtray Course Curriculum
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Your CBPT Instructor
Lisa Remey, MEd, LPC-S, RPT-S™, NCC, is a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor, Registered Play Therapist Supervisor™, National Certified Counselor, Certified FirstPlay® Practitioner, and Registered Sand Therapist-Consultant/Trainer. She is the owner of Bluebonnet Center for Play Therapy, a private practice in New Braunfels, Texas, where she works with children, families, and caregivers from infancy through adolescence. Lisa is a recognized clinician and presenter in the field of child and adolescent mental health. She co-edited The Handbook of Cognitive Behavioral Play Therapy and previously served as President of the Texas Association for Play Therapy (TxAPT). She continues to serve on committees for the Association for Play Therapy (APT), contributing to the advancement of play therapy practice. Through her clinical work, training, and writing, Lisa remains committed to supporting children and families while promoting excellence in the field of play therapy.