Self-Healing in
Sand Tray Therapy
Page One

Learn how to use the valuble art of Sand Tray Therapy in this mini session from Creative Counseling 101.

Self- Healing Sand Tray Therapy 

 Have you ever found peace and serenity in meditation, guided imagery, affirmations, or a walk in nature? If you have you are an ideal candidate for Self-Healing Sand Tray Therapy.

Of course, the self-healing sand tray therapy activity is not meant to replace actual therapy with a licensed and trained therapist. However, you can use this activity as an adjunct to therapy even if your therapist is not trained in the sand tray therapy method.

If you are a licensed mental health professional, I encourage you to take the journey of self-healing in the sand tray to learn how valuable this therapy tool actually can be. My theory as a therapist has always been to use therapy on oneself before one ever applies it to clients.

Self-Healing Sand Tray Therapy is similar to drawing a picture in art, mandalas, listening to a guided imagery tape, or having a dream. There is no right or wrong way to do it! The only danger in Self-Healing Sand Tray Therapy is if something comes up in the tray and you do not deal with it in the proper way.

An example of this is a person who pulls something from the past and it upsets them in such a way that they need therapy. The danger is in not seeking professional help from a therapist when you need to.

The same “dangers” can happen to you if you use guided imagery, a Zen Garden, art, or meditation.  When thoughts come up from your subconscious mind you have to pay attention to them. If they disturb, or upset you, then you will need to seek professional help immediately.

As a licensed therapist, I have used the sand tray therapy method on my clients, family members, friends, and self. As a professional, I use the sand tray therapy in therapy sessions.

Many times I have shown them how to use the sand tray to find solutions to their problems and meditate within the safe boundaries of the sand tray. While on my own path to healing, I have used the sand tray as a safe place to put my feelings and examine them.

For the past six years I have also taught several graduate counseling students how to use sand tray therapy at a major university.  My first rule of thumb with sand tray therapy is that you have to do it on yourself before you can ever do it with a client.

See page 2 link below:

Page Two of Self-Healing in Sand Tray Therapy

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More Ideas on Sand Tray Therapy

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See More Creative Counseling Ideas Here

*Disclaimer: This information is meant to be used by licensed mental health professionals. If you are not a licensed mental health professional (or one seeking this with proper supervision) please seek counseling and make sure your mental health professional is in agreement to work with you regarding sand tray therapy self-healing before trying any these activities.

Disclaimer: This website and its content is intended for trained licensed mental health professionals and school certified mental health professionals to use for their clients / students at their own discretion.

*If you ignore the disclaimer above are using these techniques on yourself and you feel any discomfort or upset it is highly suggested that you seek out a licensed  mental health professional immediately.

"Beyond Art Therapy" is the concept from Dr. Stangline that combines all creative fields in therapy. It is not the traditional "art therapy" but goes beyond to include sand tray therapy, play therapy, mindfulness, meditation, color therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and a vast majority of other therapies.

For any other type of mental health emergency call your local 911 / Police Number immediately.

Dr. Stangline does not offer advice / suggestions to anyone who is not a professional mental health provider, or a student who is studying this field and has questions about mental health programs of study.