Developed by Dora Kalff, Sandplay is based on the symbolism of the universal unconscious psychology pioneered by Carl Jung and uses toys, figures and objects as tools in a non-verbal therapeutic process. 

Sandplay or sometimes called sandtray is a safe, yet profound therapy. In the same way that our subconscious mind communicates with our conscious mind via symbols in our dreams, so too does sandplay. The difference is that when we do sandplay we are awake. We can view the physical symbols we have chosen in front of us. We create the landscape in the sand in which we move the symbols around to tell our "story." This can be a deeply moving and revelatory experience.

There are three differing styles of sandplay work, each of which has its own virtues. These are:

1. Free Sandtray - You the client are in total control of your experience. It is a very subjective experience in which you have little or no direction from the therapist. The therapist is there to provide a calm and supportive environment in which you receive the freedom, empathy, protection and trust you need.
2. Directed Sandtray - The therapist directs you in the process in order to explore specific aspects of your issues to achieve particular therapeutic goals.
3. Gestault - A mixture of the first two where you have the space to express yourself followed by communication with your therapist. This may lead to Gestault style role-playing as a means of exploring your issue through symbols used. This technique can be very transformative.

Sandplay Therapy is a gentle, yet powerful experience that works on many levels. Although Sandplay was developed specifically for the needs of children, it is also an excellent therapy for adults.