Using sand as a therapeutic tool is

Using sand as a therapeutic tool is a popular form of therapy. Some therapists seek certification in sand tray therapy and there are always continuing education opportunities for those who want to learn more.

I can’t imagine not having a sand tray in my office. Children use the sand table in child-centered play therapy to process, communicate, and create. I use the sand tray with adolescents by asking them to create certain scenes. For example, I may ask them to show me on one side how their life was before their parents divorced and life after the divorce on the other side, and then write down all the feelings associated with each side. I’ve also had children set a scene from a traumatic event, such as a robbery, and play out the scene. When I did this most recently with a 9 year old girl, I asked her what it was like to see the traumatic event in the sand tray. She responded by saying it felt really good to show me what happened in this way. The sand can be a powerful tool for any therapist. Below are some suggestions on sand tables and portable sand trays.