Sandtray therapy was developed in 1929 by researcher and psychologist Margaret Lowenfeld. It is a form of play therapy where clients use miniatures and sand to create stories that express complex emotions. Instead of talking about issues, clients show their experiences symbolically, with their therapist providing guidance and questions to help interpret what unfolds.

As a visual learner fascinated by symbols and stories, I love using sandtray therapy. Many find it easier to communicate visually, especially those with trauma or neurodivergence. Our daily thoughts can loop endlessly, but by going nonverbal, we uncover hidden emotions and see our stories visually. Sandtray therapy is also an evidence-based method with an established body of research. Sandtray therapy’s universal language supports multilingual clients, children of immigrants, and those with challenging pasts, helping process trauma, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and more.

My journey with sandtray therapy began in graduate school at the University of Florida, where I trained in play therapy techniques. I further honed my skills working with children and teens as a Brainpower Counselor at Girl’s Place in Gainesville, FL. I have continued to deepen my expertise through workshops with the Southern Sandtray Institute. My office holds a carefully curated collection of hundreds of miniatures and a full-sized sandtray, and I’m passionate about using this powerful tool with adults and adolescents to foster healing and insight.