Exploring Sand Tray Therapy for Children and Teens

In the arena of therapeutic tools, sand tray therapy stands out as highly effective, especially for children and adolescents. By creating a safe and expressive environment, sand tray therapy helps children and teens articulate their feelings and experiences. Often this happens in ways that traditional talk therapy might not allow.

What is Sand Tray Therapy?

Sand tray therapy is a form of expressive therapy that uses a sandbox and a variety of miniature figures. The client arranges these figures in the sand to create a scene or world that reflects their inner thoughts, feelings, and struggles. This process can tap into the subconscious, allowing for expression that might be difficult to verbalize. 

This therapeutic approach is rooted in the principles of play therapy and is particularly effective with children and teens who may find it challenging to communicate their emotions directly. The tactile nature of the sand and the symbolic use of figures create a rich, multisensory experience that fosters deep emotional exploration and healing.

The Power of Symbolism and Metaphor

One of the key elements that make sand tray therapy so effective is its use of symbolism and metaphor. Children and teens often struggle to find the words to describe their complex emotions and experiences. Through sand tray therapy, they can bypass the need for verbal articulation and instead use symbols to represent their inner world (Related Article: Child Therapy).

For example, a child might place a dragon in their sand tray to symbolize fear or a sense of being overwhelmed. A teenager might create a scene with isolated figures to represent feelings of loneliness or disconnection. As a therapist, observing and engaging with these symbolic representations allows me to gain insight into the client’s emotional landscape and guide them toward understanding and resolving their issues.

Creating a Safe and Non-Judgmental Space

One of the fundamental aspects of effective therapy is creating a safe and non-judgmental space where clients feel comfortable expressing themselves. Sand tray therapy naturally facilitates this environment. The sandbox becomes a miniature version of the client’s world, where they have control and can express their thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment.

For children and teens, this sense of safety is crucial. It enables them to explore difficult emotions and experiences at their own pace. As they manipulate the sand and figures, they can externalize their internal struggles, making it easier to confront and work through them.

Promoting Emotional Regulation and Healing

Sand tray therapy not only helps clients express their emotions but also promotes emotional regulation. The act of creating and manipulating the sand tray scene can be calming and grounding. For children and teens dealing with anxiety, trauma, and emotional challenges, this approach to therapy can be incredibly beneficial (Related Article: Signs Your Child Has School Anxiety).

As clients engage with their sand tray creations, they often experience a sense of empowerment and mastery. This can lead to increased self-esteem and resilience, helping them to cope more effectively with life’s challenges. Over time, the insights gained from sand tray therapy can lead to profound healing and personal growth.

Is Sand Tray Therapy Right for You?

Sand tray therapy can be used for all ages, not just children and teens. It helps if you are drawn to expressive and creative forms of therapy. Sand tray therapy can also help if you find traditional talk therapy challenging. It is particularly suitable for those seeking a deeper understanding of themselves and their experiences through symbolic expression and exploration (Related Article: Parenting: How To Help Your Child Process big Feelings).

Integrating Sand Tray Therapy into a Holistic Approach

I am an Experiential and Attachment-Based therapist. I believe in taking a holistic approach to therapy. Sand tray therapy integrates seamlessly with this philosophy. It addresses the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. This happens through engaging multiple senses and allowing for deep emotional exploration.

By incorporating sand tray therapy in therapy, I help children and teens articulate their struggles and discover strengths and resources. This process fosters long-term change and equips clients with the tools they need to navigate future challenges.

We offer sand tray therapy for children and teenagers in Orem, South Jordan and Spanish Fork, Utah. Or virtually, through telehealth. 

Written by Kami Muhlestein, Licensed Associate Marriage and Family Therapist