Sandplay Therapy

Sandplay Therapy provides a nonverbal way for clients to experience and transform inner tensions through creative expression with sand, water and miniatures.

Without the need for words, clients are able to externalize unresolved challenges, strengths and resiliencies. While engaging their body and imagination, clients become creators of their own personal journeys.
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What happens in a session

During sandplay, clients create scenes using miniatures and wet or dry sand. The simple materials – sand, water, figurines and natural objects – are like tools of a language that is at once uniquely personal and also universal. There is no right or wrong way to use the materials, and there is nothing specific to strive for. 

While some clients want to share stories about their sandpictures, this is not a necessary part of the therapy. This way, less verbal clients can fully participate and benefit from the approach. Together, the client and therapist focus on accepting the creation without judgment or analysis.

In ongoing therapy, photos of the sandpictures record each client’s personal journey, developmental process, and readiness for closure of therapy.
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To learn more

For more information about Sandplay Therapy, visit the Canadian Association of Sandplay Therapy and Sandplay Therapists of America websites. 

​Parents interested in learning more about how sandplay is beneficial for children and youth can refer to our Parent Information page.