Sandtray/ Sandplay Therapy
What does sandtray/ sandplay therapy involve?
These similar forms of therapy support clients to process experiences and feelings through manipulating figurines/ other miniatures including environmental materials in a sand tray, to re-create settings and situations symbolically. The therapist may verbally track choices of materials and how the figurines are being moved to interact. This supports continual working through of situations and creative ways of processing alternate possibilities to support a sense of safety and protection of self. This is based on the premise that a person’s “psyche possesses a natural tendency to heal itself, given the proper conditions” - Harriet Friedman and Rie Rogers Mitchell).
Who is sandtray/ sandplay therapy a good fit for?
These similar forms of therapy can be a good fit for individuals of all ages (children and adults) who are open to the idea of processing their experiences and feelings symbolically in the way described above. It is well-suited to individuals who are non-speaking or who find it difficult to express their experiences and feelings verbally. It is also well-suited to adults who are very analytical and tend to consider things cognitively, as it helps them tune into their emotions and what insight those feelings can provide.
Our provisional psychologist Ruby Simms-Cumbers offers these forms of therapy. Read more about Ruby here and contact us if you’d like to enquire about booking in with Ruby.