The Use of Sandtray Approaches in Psycho-Therapeutic Work With Adult Trauma Survivors: A Thematic Analysis

Abstract

This dissertation is an investigation into the literature on the use of Sandtray approaches in psycho-therapeutic work with traumatised adult clients. The research focuses on how practitioners and scholars across different psycho-therapeutic modalities have written about their application and understanding of Sandtray in the therapeutic work with adult trauma survivors. This is an interpretive project employing thematic analysis. The research findings collectively describe a “Clinical Model for Sandtray Therapy with Adult Trauma Survivors”. Sandtray as an adjunct therapeutic tool is found to increase Safety, to foster the Communication of the often “unspeakable” experience of trauma, and to provide a physical space where Active Work with trauma can be contained. Implications for clinical practice, education, and further research as well as a critical reflection on the method of research are outlined.