Starting Play Therapy can be like entering a whole new world.
Think Minecraft, Jumanji, and Wizard of Oz vibes - we’re definitely not in Kansas anymore. And with this new world can bring a boat load of doubts. Am I doing this right? Is this working? Aren’t we just playing?
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→ How do I become a Registered Play Therapist™ or an RPT™?
This is one of the top questions I often get asked as a Registered Play Therapist Supervisor and (current) President of the Minnesota Association for Play Therapy! A brief history? In 2020 the process to obtain your RPT™ toootally changed. Check out more on that HERE! 
The trifecta of sandtray supplies includes the miniatures and tools (everyone’s fav), the sand, and the tray.
If you want to go all in on miniatures check out my post HERE! And for a deeper dive into sand check out these posts HERE and HERE! And if just thinking about your sand tray and setup has ever given you anxiety....this post is for you! 
I have had TONS of different types of sandtrays and sand materials in my trays - from my own beach hauls, pricy “beach sand” from Target that was sold by the pound, corn, rice, and nearly everything in between.
**Disclaimer** some cultures and populations believe using food for play can be seen as inappropriate and wasteful. On the other hand, some neurodivergent clients aren’t able to handle the texture of sand and prefer a substitute like dried beans, oatmeal, or non-food/non-sand substitutes such as shredded paper. For clients that are prone to putting things in their mouth or attempting to eat the sand a food alternative may be necessary. Check out more about neurodivergence in the sandtray from Dr. Robert Jason Grant HERE! SO... with that disclaimer, please use your clinical judgement and what is right for your population when it comes to your tray! 
The most exciting part about sandtray? The miniatures - hands down.
A borderline obsession for most sandtray therapists is collecting, selecting, and cultivating the absolutely perfect miniature collection. Also likely paired with showing off your favorite minis to your office neighbors and play therapist besties. Want to grow your collection? Check out more resources with tons of ideas HERE and HERE! 
One of the foundational pieces of starting sandtray in your practice is training!
Yes, the fun, exciting, and shiny part is the miniatures and carefully creating your setup. Hours browsing pinterest, visiting artisan makers (like Mama Owls Minis) virtually or at a conference, and hitting up the dollar spot, garage sales, and even sometimes your kids bedroom. (I am totally guilty of this.) 
If you are thinking of adding sandtray to your therapy practice OR have dipped your toes in but aren’t sure where to go next - this is the post you need, my friend!
Bookmark this page because I wanted to give you my top four resources for any play therapist that wants to start using sandtray more ethically and effectively in their play therapy practice! 
So real question - are you a fan of Bluey?
If you are unaware - Bluey follows the adventures of a lovable & inexhaustible six-year-old puppy, who along with her sister Bingo, parents and friends is learning all about the world. And part of learning about the world? The show serves up some excellent lessons on mental health, emotional regulation and play. 
Are you really being Child Centered when you’re doing Child Centered Play Therapy?
Using Child Centered Play Therapy in the playroom means that you are providing a safe space for children to express themselves, explore their emotions, and process their experiences - with the child leading the way. And for some therapists who practice Child Centered Play Therapy - some direction and control can (unintentionally) creep in without you even knowing it! |
Hi, there!I'm Ann Meehan, an LPCC, 
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[email protected] | Copyright Meehan Mental Health Services 2025
[email protected] | Copyright Meehan Mental Health Services 2025