Sandplay therapy: An overview of theory, applications and evidence base

Abstract

Sandplay Therapy (SPT) is a psychotherapy method utilized worldwide, not only in Western countries, but also in Asia and Latin America with an extensive increase in growth over the past 15 years. The nonverbal approach of SPT is especially applicable in working with children, and with adults with trauma, distress, disabilities, and migration issues. This study provides an overview of the theory and practice of SPT in individual and group settings, its application to different groups of clients and mental health problems, and the state of evidence. A systematic search found 16 RCTs and 17 effectiveness studies, which found significant improvements with moderate effect sizes for a variety of child and adult mental health problems. Although further research is warranted, the current state of evidence highlights a range of potential benefits of SPT in clinical practice. SPT seems to have a potential for the treatment of clients with traumatic stress, disabilities or language problems, which are difficult to treat with conventional psychotherapy methods.