What is sandplay therapy?
In sandplay therapy, a person works with a tray full of sand and small figurines (animals, people, nature objects, things), and “makes a world”. The figurines can represent whatever you choose. Often a child or adult is invited to tell the story of his or her world after completing the creation, and for many there may be action and dialogue that emerges between sandplay figurines. In the process of both making and then noting what one has made in the sandtray, insights and self-awareness can deepen. For children, this method allows them to process feelings, thoughts, memories and experiences in a way that is symbolic; one step removed from direct thinking and talking. For adults, often imagery and thoughts will surface, often as playful surprises, that can help them see what lies more unconscious in their psyche and can then be worked with in a more conscious way to bring faster progress in therapy. When words are not enough in therapy, we can shift awareness and expression through cre
