Sandplay Therapy

Sandplay therapy involves using a sandbox or sandtray, miniature toy figures, and, in some cases, water to form scenes that might reflect a person's inner thoughts and feelings. The figures, sand, and water can be added to the scenes in any order, as the process is left to the client and their imagination. Sand play may be considered a form of art therapy, as it encourages self-expression and creativity in a safe environment. The main techniques used in sandplay therapy include the following. 

The world technique 

The world technique is a common practice in sandplay therapy. In this technique, miniatures like animals, action figures, vegetation, and vehicles are placed in the sand to assist in sand tray therapy. The scene the individual creates might symbolize events, fears, or other parts of the individual's inner world. By arranging these figures, clients may externalize and visually express their feelings and memories. In children, this form of sand tray therapy might be considered a form of play therapy, allowing the child to act out scenes in the sand for the sandplay therapist.

The humanistic approach 

The humanistic approach recognizes the inherent value and potential of every individual. It’s based on the idea that everyone already has the inner resources for growth and healing. With sandplay therapy, individuals can have a safe, non-judgmental space to discover new insights and achieve personal growth without depending on a therapist. 

Symbols used in sandplay therapy

Each miniature has the potential to symbolize unique parts of an individual’s life. For instance, the following symbols might be used: 

• Animals: Animals are commonly used to represent instincts or specific emotions. A lion might symbolize strength or anger, while a bird might represent freedom or hope.
• Houses or buildings: These structures often represent the self or family dynamics. A broken house might indicate instability or fractured family relationships.
• Nature elements: Trees could signify growth or life stages, while water might depict emotional depth or the subconscious.
• Fantasy figures: Characters like dragons or fairies can showcase dreams, fears, or aspirations. They might also signify powerful, often suppressed emotions or memories.

A creative process may help individuals express emotions, especially if they’re unable to express them verbally or are overwhelmed by their past experiences. As clients create their sand world, they may learn about their emotional state, work through past traumas, and access unconscious thoughts and feelings without having to partake in traditional talk therapy. 

Sandplay therapy is often used to help individuals, especially children, who have gone through traumatic events or experiences that are difficult to express in words. During a sandplay therapy session, the setup may include:

• Sandbox: You or your child will be provided with a tray filled with sand, which can act as a canvas for a scene. Soft lighting, quiet background music, or nature sounds might be used to enhance the atmosphere. 
• Miniature figures: Various small figures, including people, animals, nature elements, or mythological or fantasy items, might be available to select. Each figure can be seen as a potential symbol or metaphor for one's inner world.
• The creative process: You or your child may be encouraged to arrange figures in the sandbox to create a scene or narrative. Physically creating the scene may help you express various struggles or memories. You might experience different emotions, from relief and calm to sadness or agitation. 
• The therapist's role: The therapist often maintains a respectful distance, observing silently. They might ask open-ended questions after the session to understand the scene but won't try to interpret it during the creation process. Following each session, therapists may offer specific techniques to cope with intense feelings that arise. They might also provide resources, such as reading materials, to further explore certain themes from the session.

There is no right or wrong way to create a sand scene. Sandplay therapy is about individual expression, focusing on the process, not the outcome. The scenes you or your child create might vary from session to session, as they may reflect different emotions or experiences. Over time, this therapeutic modality may lead to more profound self-awareness or healing. 

Sandplay therapy allows children and adults to process various emotions and experiences. This type of therapy may benefit individuals with concerns such as:

• Experiencing emotional and behavioral challenges
• Living with chronic⁴ diseases or physical disabilities
• Processing grief or loss
• Experiencing learning difficulties or low self-esteem

Those with emotional or behavioral challenges or conditions, such as depression or trauma, may experience relief through this non-verbal form of therapy. It may also benefit those with learning difficulties, low self-esteem, or physical disabilities. 

Children with chronic diseases may experience anxiety or behavioral problems that can benefit from sandplay therapy. In addition, individuals who have experienced loss or grief can use sandplay therapy to process and express their emotions. Sandplay therapy allows individuals to express themselves creatively in a supportive setting, which can help them overcome challenges and improve their overall mental health.

Non-verbal expression

A therapist may recommend sandplay therapy to encourage individuals, especially those who struggle with verbal communication, to express their innermost feelings without words. This type of therapy can allow individuals to use sand and miniatures to show what they’re experiencing in their inner world.

Emotional healing

Sandplay therapy aims to provide a platform for clients to confront and heal from traumatic events or unresolved emotions that affect their daily lives. Through creating scenes, clients may externalize and better understand their emotions.

Self-awareness

Through this modality, individuals can learn more about their inner thoughts, emotions, desires, and fears. Making scenes in the sand may help them uncover feelings or thoughts they might not even know they had.

Personal growth

Sandplay therapy can promote personal development by letting clients explore their relationships with others, how they manage tough situations, and how they regulate their emotions. As they create their sand scenes, individuals can draw parallels to their real-life experiences, which may help them make improved decisions.

With sandplay therapy, clients can explore their inner selves and find healing through a supportive and imaginative approach.

Various studies have supported the effectiveness of sandplay therapy. In recent years, researchers have also shown increasing interest in the field, exploring its potential to improve mental health.

One study assessed how sandplay therapy might affect different areas of the brain. Researchers studied the brain activity of therapists and their clients as they worked together in sandplay and interview sessions. They found that both brains showed similar activity patterns during therapy, especially in the prefrontal cortex and frontopolar regions. The brains of therapists and clients may be syncing in a way that could explain why empathy plays a significant role in sandplay.

Another study evaluated the effects of sandplay therapy on children with chronic diseases and their caregivers. The study divided 60 children and their caregivers into two groups: one group received regular treatment and sandplay therapy, while the other only received regular treatment. The results found that the group who received sandplay therapy experienced a significant decrease in behavioral challenges, anxiety, and depression compared to the control group. 

As interest in sandplay therapy grows, there’s a continued need for more research to understand its potential applications better. Ongoing research efforts can help establish a solid evidence base for the therapy.

You might be able to find a sandplay therapist through online searches and therapist directories. Sandplay Therapists of America offers a comprehensive directory of certified sandplay therapists. You can also request a recommendation from mental health professionals, friends, or family members who may have experience working with someone trained in this type of therapy to attempt to find a therapist.

In addition, you can contact local mental health clinics or hospitals that may be able to provide information on available sandplay practitioners in your area. Online therapy platforms, such as BetterHelp, may offer services that can be used alongside sand therapy sessions. Still, it can be helpful to compare the expertise and qualifications of therapists to find the most appropriate provider for you.