Frequently in therapy, we encounter issues that are too difficult to articulate or that are even not fully acknowledged or understood. Sometimes this is because the person in therapy is a child who doesn't yet have the insight to be able to share and process the circumstances in his/her life. Sometimes this is because the person is an adult who has blocked memories from the past or who isn't even consciously aware of certain themes or struggles that are manifesting in his/her life.  Sometimes this is an adolescent who just feels more comfortable using a non-verbal, expressive approach in therapy. Sometimes this is a couple or a family who feel safer sharing their relationship problems in sand, rather than in words. 

Whatever the case may be, Sandtray is a powerful intervention to help uncover and process issues in a safe, therapeutic environment. Sandtray is often used in conjunction with Play Therapy and other therapy models as a way to jump start or promote discussion. It may be used intermittently to promote progress towards your goals or when there may be an unconscious issue prohibiting progress.

Sandtray therapy involves making three-dimensional "pictures" in a tray of soft sand using an assortment of miniature figurines that represent a multitude of life situations.  Although it sounds a little outlandish and may even feel a little bizarre at first, sandtray therapy can produce some powerful psychological insights and reveal overlooked (or buried) struggles.