SANDTRAY
Sandtray is a great alternative way of processing where the client creates and explores meaningful scenes that might portray memories, feelings, goals, or self-exploration. Generally, adults are reluctant to participate in Sandtray as it can feel childish or unstructured. There is no right or wrong way to complete a tray! 

​Clients start by bringing their attention to the sand by noticing how it feels. Once comfortable, they are invited to chose miniature figures that provoke emotions or symbolize something that they are trying to communicate. The miniatures are added to the tray as the clinician silently observes until the client completes the tray and is ready to talk about what they've created.
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​The client and therapist will be able to identify patterns and themes, process emotions, bring attention to meaningful details, and increase client's insight and awareness about their creativity and the scenarios they recreate. 
ART
Art therapy can a great way to explore, communicate and release emotions.  For interested clients, we can supply a range of art materials and a safe space for the client to create visual representations of emotions, experiences and ideas. Clients can choose between creating completely independently, or for a more directive approach depending on comfort level and goals. 
Benefits of Expressive Therapies:
  • moving away from the logical, intellectual brain to access creativity.      
  • process events and emotions that are more difficult to verbalize, such as trauma or grief
  • process trauma that is pre-verbal
  • another means of self-expression and gaining insight
  • may benefit clients who are more visual to envision goals or resources ​
  • can provide sense of power, control and safety to process events that are more scary, graphic or painful
  • sensory benefits can be soothing or help to keep a client grounded in sessions