Sandplay Therapy & Symbol work with Children and Adolescents

Sandplay Therapy & Symbol work with Children and Adolescents

Presented by Dr. Mark Pearson and Dr. Helen Wilson, founders of Expressive Therapies Australia, this enlightening workshop provides a deep dive into the transformative world of Sandplay Therapy and Symbol Work. With extensive experience in the field, Dr. Pearson and Dr. Wilson have been pioneering the development and training of Sandplay Therapy since 1991, with their courses presented internationally across Australia, New Zealand, Southeast Asia, and Europe.

Drawing from their advanced training with Ruth Ammann, a former assistant of Dora Kalff (the founder of Sandplay Therapy), they bring a rich, well-rounded understanding of this expressive therapeutic approach. Sandplay Therapy integrates both left- and right-brain processes, moving beyond traditional Western psychological methods that often prioritise logical, left-brain functioning. By using tactile materials in a sand tray, Sandplay Therapy engages children and adolescents in a non-verbal dialogue, allowing them to express emotions and navigate their internal states in a safe, symbolic environment.

In this workshop, Dr. Pearson and Dr. Wilson discuss the foundational principles of Sandplay Therapy, which emphasise the therapeutic power of play, its effects on brain development, and its ability to bridge cognitive and emotional processes. They also share insights from their book Sandplay & Symbol Work (ACER Press, 2001), which elaborates on the tools and resources used in Sandplay therapy and explores its capacity to aid in emotional healing and personal growth.

Participants will learn how Sandplay Therapy offers a valuable method for children and adolescents to process complex emotions, foster resilience, and develop a deeper understanding of their inner worlds. Through case studies and interactive demonstrations, Dr. Pearson and Dr. Wilson will guide attendees in exploring the ways Sandplay Therapy can be integrated into clinical practice to address a wide range of psychological issues, from trauma to developmental challenges.

This workshop offers valuable strategies and resources for professionals looking to expand their therapeutic toolkits and enhance their work with young clients, encouraging emotional expression and healing through the symbolic language of play.