Trauma in the Sand Training

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In the Working with Trauma in the Sand 2-day face-to-face workshop we will look at neuroscience of trauma (including the Triune Brain, Polyvagal Theory, Left-Right Hemispheric differentiation), different types of trauma, the three-phase approach to trauma healing and safety consideration when working with traumatised clients. We will explore how trauma may manifest in the Sandtray spontaneously, and the different approaches to help the client process their experience safely in the sand. We will compare and contrast trauma processing in the Sand with a number of talking therapies. 

Part 2/Advanced Working with Trauma in the Sand workshop is now also available. This will cover generational trauma, dreams and nightmares, birth trauma, and trauma of oppression and discrimination. This is open only to those who have completed the first workshop

This is an experiential workshop and the participants will be creating their own Sandtrays both in directed and spontaneous exercises. If you are experiencing any ongoing trauma symptoms, please speak to the tutor prior to booking.  

The Sand & Sound Centre,  35 Ridling Lane, Hyde SK14 1NP

Free street parking available

Working with Trauma in the Sand Part 1 - 26-27th July 2025 - book  with deposit HERE

Trauma in the Sand Part 2 - TBC

9.30am till 5pm both days, with 1 hour break for lunch

Working with Trauma in the Sand (Part 1) is intended for qualified counsellors and therapists working with adults and/or children. To take part in this workshop you need to have some prior experience in therapeutic sandplay/tray work (2 day training or equivalent). If unsure of your eligibility, please contact the trainer to discuss.

Working with Trauma in the Sand Advanced (Part 2) is open to those who have completed Part 1.

£265 per 2-day workshop, deposit of £60 secures your place. Early bird price £225 for bookings/ payments made at least *two months* in advance - this is valid only if you are self-funding (if your employer is paying, there is no early bird discount).

Masha Bennett is a UKCP Registered Psychotherapist, clinical supervisor, and psychotherapy trainer. She specialises in creative approaches to trauma treatment, in particular Integrative Sandplay, and has an MSc in Therapeutic Practice for Psychological Trauma from Chester University.

"I would like to thank Masha so much for this weekend. I feel like I have peeled off quite a few layers and am getting closer to my core. I feel I have had so many light bulb moments which are still happening now - the day after. I feel both clarity and enlightened for myself and for the children I work with. It feels like the mist is clearing on this incredible journey. I cannot recommend this weekend enough and look forward to part 2."

"This weekend training of trauma in the sand was a great way to recap, and gain new insights and knowledge. The experiential aspects of it and Masha’s teaching style supported exploration in a space that felt safe." 

"I attended Masha’s working with trauma in the sand course and the whole weekend from start to finish was excellent. Masha has the ability to contain, nurture and hold the space and i felt, each individual in the group. There is a beautiful ambience in the room and the miniature collection is phenomenal. The content of the course had experiential elements which enhance the learning, it was informative with practical insights backed with thorough theory. The power of the sand never ceases to amaze me and evokes all that is exposed and hidden.  A wonderful experience." 

"I really recommend Masha's Working with Trauma in the Sand workshop. It covers the fundamentals required to work safely with trauma throughout the whole process of witnessing the creation of a sandtray, and deftly weaves simple explanations of complicated theories throughout the practice. It's a lovely mix of personal and professional application, held by Masha's gentle, grounded and humorous presence which creates a safe and fun environment to do this potentially challenging work."

'Thank you so much for providing such a wonderful learning experience. I came away feeling more equipped to work with my clients, but I found it to be such a deep personal experience and for that I thank you I am hopeful that I will be able to attend your next training... Once again, thank you so much and I’m very pleased to have experienced you as a teacher.'

Book your place with deposit HERE. https://sandsoundcentre.co.uk/training-%26-events For enquiries about the course, eligibility, local accommodation etc email the trainer masha@practicalhappiness.co.uk 

It is important to note that whilst some aspects of this course may be healing, it’s main purpose is educational - it is not intended as a replacement for personal therapy. As this course deals with trauma and other potentially distressing material, before booking your place please be sure that you are able to take part in discussions that may touch on some difficult topics, without detriment to yourself. It is particularly important that you have enough sleep, do not over-work, eat well, drink plenty of water and take time to connect to nature, in the few days before the course as well as after it. If you have any special requirements, requests or concerns about being able to participate in this course, please do discuss with the trainer