What is Sandtray Therapy?
When Words Are Hard, Sand Speaks
Sandtray therapy is a gentle, creative form of support for children, adults, and families, designed for anyone who finds talking difficult, overwhelming, or simply not enough.
A Different Way to Heal
Sandtray therapy uses a tray of sand and a range of small objects (symbols) to help you express feelings, experiences, and stories in a non-verbal way. By shaping the sand and choosing symbols, you can explore your inner world without the pressure to explain or find the “right” words. It’s a safe, sensory-based approach to healing, built for people of all ages who need support with big emotions, stress, trauma, or change.
How Sessions Unfold
A Calm, Safe Space
Every session starts in a quiet, sensory-rich room designed to feel safe and welcoming. No clinical feel, just warmth, privacy, and a space that invites calm. You’ll be gently welcomed in, with time to settle and breathe.
Reflection and Gentle Support
Your therapist is there to support, not to judge or interpret for you. They’ll gently reflect on what’s in the tray if you want to share, helping you notice patterns, themes, or feelings. There’s no expectation to talk unless you feel like it.
Getting to Know the Sand
When you’re ready, you’ll begin by simply feeling the sand. There’s no pressure to start “working”, this is about exploring the texture, grounding yourself, and easing into the process at your own pace.
A Process That Moves at Your Pace
Every session is client-led, meaning you’re always in control of how much you share, how deep you go, and what feels safe. This therapy is about creating space for your story, not pushing you into places you’re not ready for.
Choosing Symbols That Speak to You
The room includes a wide range of miniatures; tiny people, animals, objects, and symbols. You’ll be invited to select whatever stands out to you, arranging them in the sand in a way that feels right. There are no rules, and no “correct” way to create your tray.
Closing the Session with Care
When you feel finished, you and your therapist will gently reflect on the tray together. A photo is taken to honour the story you've created, and your therapist may ask a few curious questions to help with reflection and note-taking. The tray is left untouched when you leave, your creation stays as it is. The therapist will carefully pack it away later, so you don’t have to see it dismantled.
Who Is Sandtray Therapy For?
Finding the right support can feel hard, especially when words aren’t enough. Sandtray Therapy offers a calm, creative way to explore emotions, for anyone navigating stress, trauma, or emotional overwhelm.
Children & Teens
For kids and teens who feel anxious, withdrawn, or misunderstood. Our creative sessions provide a safe space to express feelings, work through challenges, and build confidence without the pressure to talk.
Adults
For adults feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or burnt out. Sandtray Therapy helps process life’s challenges, find clarity, and feel more regulated—whether you’re seeking support for yourself or as a parent or carer.
Carers & First Responders
For those carrying the emotional load of caring for others. We provide a quiet space to decompress, process stress, and find relief, so you can continue supporting others without losing yourself.
Why Sand and Symbols?
Sandtray therapy works because our brains often process emotions, memories, and challenges in ways that words alone can’t reach. The simple, hands-on act of shaping sand and placing symbols can unlock insights, soothe the nervous system, and help clients find new perspectives. It’s a safe, sensory-rich approach that offers gentle, non-verbal support, ideal for those feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure where to start.
Common Questions
“Isn’t this just for kids?”
No, Sandtray Therapy is just as powerful for adults and anyone who finds talking hard.
“It’s just play, not real therapy.”
Play and creativity are serious work in the healing process. Every object placed in the sand tells part of your story.
“I’ll have to talk about painful things.”
You don’t have to say a word if you don’t want to. Healing can happen in silence, with support and care.
