Redefining what therapist support looks like
For Therapists Who Give So Much, It’s Your Turn to Get Poured Into
I’m not here to just hand you more theory.
I’m here to make therapy feel alive again.
At Southern Sandtray Institute, it’s my mission is to empower therapists worldwide through Sandtray therapy that’s as practical as it is profound.
When you gain confidence, clarity, and community, your clients feel it too and that’s where transformation begins.
Let me back up and introduce myself
Hey y’all, I’m Amy Hood — Therapist, wifey, occasional rapper (yes, seriously), and founder of the Southern Sandtray Institute.
Like many of you, I started as a burned-out clinician just trying to help people and stay afloat.
I was exhausted, second-guessing myself, and carrying more emotional weight than I’d ever admit in supervision.
Then I discovered Sandtray therapy, and it changed everything.
Suddenly, my sessions felt alive again.
My clients were making breakthroughs I could see right there in the tray. And I felt that old spark, the one that made me want to be a therapist in the first place — come back to life.
But there was one problem: I couldn’t find anywhere to learn Sandtray in a way that was realistic, ethical, and applicable to real clients.
So, I built it myself.
What started as a few trainings in a borrowed space turned into a thriving global community of therapists using Sandtray to change lives and loving their work again in the process. That’s how the Southern Sandtray Institute was born.
The story behind Southern Sandtray
It started small...just me, a few trays, and a handful of therapists craving something more real than another lecture.
Over time, it grew into a full institute built on thousands of therapists, countless miniatures, and the kind of sand that’s seen a whole lot of healing. And the best part? When you grow in the Sandtray, your clients do too.
My favorite miniatures
Every miniature tells a story, so here are the ones I couldn’t resist sharing.
No. 01
Family will Always be my Number One
I don’t want to brag, but I’ve earned my title as the favorite aunt. When each kid in my family turns nine, they get a one-on-one trip with me, anywhere they want, doing whatever they choose. It’s one of my favorite traditions.
No. 02
TikTok is my Muse
I swear I’ve been on this app since before it was even a thing. It’s my go-to spot to laugh a little, unwind after a session, and let my brain breathe.
No. 03
I feel good when I listen to music
Rap music is always on my playlist! It’s been a staple in my life forever and somehow fits every mood from hype to decompress. If there’s music playing, odds are it’s rap.
But I don’t work alone — meet the team
While I might be the face you see most often, I definitely don’t do this alone. Behind the scenes, there’s an incredible team making sure every therapist who joins us gets the support they deserve.
From community management to marketing, curriculum design to tech setup, every part of SSI is built to help you grow.
We’re small but mighty. Southern, but strategic. And we’re obsessed with making sure your learning experience feels as warm and personal as a good cup of sweet tea.
Meet Nicole!
Nicole is the Head of Marketing and Operations at Southern Sandtray Institute. She oversees all programs, sales, and our online communities, ensuring that everything you experience from trainings to memberships to resources runs smoothly and with intention.
Nicole plays a key role in shaping the systems and strategy that support Southern Sandtray’s growth, while keeping the heart of the work front and center.
Meet Rebekah!
Rebekah is the mastermind behind all of Southern Sandtray’s fulfillment and the backbone of keeping our programs running month over month. She supports our current members and ensures that everything behind the scenes flows seamlessly—from resources to deliveries to day-to-day operations.
Rebekah is the magic behind our miniature boxes. She thoughtfully creates, packages, and ships each one, making sure every delivery feels intentional, personal, and special. Her attention to detail and care for the community is felt in every package that goes out the door, and her work plays a huge role in the experience our members know and love.
Meet Tracy!
Tracy is the friendly voice behind our phones and the person responding to our customer support emails at Southern Sandtray Institute. She’s here to make sure you have everything you need and that your questions are answered with care, clarity, and kindness.
Tracy plays an essential role in supporting our community. Whether she’s helping troubleshoot an issue, answering questions about programs, or guiding you in the right direction, she’s often the first point of contact and a steady, supportive presence for our members.
Stay Connected to the Work that Fills You up
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