Sand Play Therapy

“ We probably do not recognize it at first, but the symbols stand
out for us because something inside us resonates, recognises
itself in them.”

| M. Pearson & H. Wilson

This introductory modality has something in common with Clay Work: it also works in the three dimensional, differently to the two dimensions of colour, and offering a potentially powerful shift in perspective for the client.

“It [sandplay] forms a bridge between verbal therapy and the expressive therapies.” (Pearson & Wilson)

The development of this approach within the wider context of artistic counselling/therapy will be explores, with reference to its claimed benefits and any potential contraindications or limitations.

Through theory and practice the student will learn what is required regarding both materials and therapy skills in order to facilitate a client’s use of these methods: including such tools as The Sand Play Box.

The difference between Sand Play arising out of cognitive thinking, or imaginative fantasy, or out of deeper somatic ‘Feeling and Sensing experience’, will also be covered, helping students to clarify which counselling approach they most identify themselves with at this point in their learning.