Sand Tray Therapy
Sand Tray Therapy is a gentle, expressive intervention that allows clients to explore thoughts, emotions, and experiences through symbolic play. Using miniature figures in a sand tray, clients create scenes that reflect their internal world—often revealing insights that are difficult to put into words.
Good for people who:
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Have difficulty verbalizing emotions
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Have experienced trauma, loss, or attachment disruptions
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Are children, teens, or adults who process visually or symbolically
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Benefit from expressive or play-based approaches
How Sand Tray Therapy Helps
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Supports emotional expression
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Builds self-awareness
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Helps process trauma in a safe, contained way
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Encourages problem-solving and creativity
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Reduces anxiety by using sensory grounding
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What Sessions Look Like
Clients select miniatures, arrange them in the tray, and explore the story, symbolism, and emotions that emerge. The therapist acts as a witness and guide—not interpreting for the client but helping them uncover meaning at their own pace.
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Additional Resources
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Sand Tray Therapy: Evidence & Studies (Healthline overview)
https://www.healthline.com/health/mental-health/sand-tray-therapy Healthline -
Sandplay Therapists of America — Professional Organization & Directory
https://www.sandplay.org/ -
Broad Trauma Intervention References (RISE22, includes sand tray as modality)
https://s3.amazonaws.com/bee-content/beeUploadedFiles/33500567/d602a2fc-3a37-4b40-b5d3-d6d5232e16b2_C25WorkingtoPreventReTraumatizationRISE22.pdf
