Sandplay & Play therapy Work
A sand tray full of sand beckons to us to be touched and shaped. As we play by placing the figurines in the sand and heaping it into hills and valleys we begin to feel better and understand ourselves as we share what we are doing with the counsellor. These tiny toys can represent members of our family, friends or just parts of ourselves – something inside us resonates with them as we begin to reveal a story. Children, in particular, love sandplay because it is hands-on and highly effective in helping with emotions and difficult behaviours. It is also a diagnostic tool which can help to uncover trauma in childhood and lead to better social integration, growth and development.
Parents can watch as the child begins to express his or her unconscious feelings and gentle questions are encouraged as the child plays. I also use painting, play doh, stones and emotion cards with children which can help with bullying at school or by a sibling especially if the child is frightened to talk to mum and dad for fear of reprisal.
Teenagers often find their confidence at risk. Perhaps your parents focus on outcomes rather than efforts - a failed exam can seem like the end of the world and this can give you a powerful message about how others see (or even love) you. Broken relationships, body image and general fear of leaving school and entering the outside world can be enough to bring on depression and lack of motivation. Pressures from social media can cause confusion and anxiety and peer pressure can be overwhelming.
Parents arguing, separating or divorcing and loss of grandparents or other family members can be hugely traumatic events leading to hurt and anger which is hard to express. Offering a space for you to talk without fear of being judged or dictated to will help you to make sense of your world, enabling you to deal with your feelings in a safe environment.
If you find it difficult to talk then there are other creative ways that we can use to work together to help you make sense of what’s going on for you. You will feel listened to and be able to understand yourself and others better as we work together towards a more positive outcome.
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