Humanistic Sandtray Therapy: Theoretical Underpinnings and Practical Applications

Abstract

Multiple models of sand therapies have emerged since Margaret Lowenfeld (2007) first described her world technique. Although sandplay has an identifiable theoretical rationale and system for its application based on Dora Kalff’s (1980) original description, the same cannot be said for sandtray therapy approaches. In this article, I review humanistic sandtray therapy, a model grounded in person-centered and Gestalt theories and unique in its purposeful implementation of attitudes, skills, and techniques associated with humanistic approaches.