At Wholesome Psychology, we believe in creating a safe and nurturing space for healing. Located in both Edmonton and St. Albert, our clinic offers sandplay therapy—a transformative, research-backed approach especially helpful for children, teens, and adults processing emotional, behavioural, or developmental difficulties. To learn more about what sets us apart, visit our Unique Approach page.
What Is Sandplay Therapy?
Sandplay therapy is an expressive, nonverbal form of psychotherapy that allows clients to explore and resolve deep emotions through play and symbolism. Using a tray of sand and a wide selection of miniature figures, participants are guided by a trained therapist to create scenes that reflect their inner world. The tactile and imaginative nature of sandplay provides a gentle yet powerful medium for self-expression, healing, and growth for people of all ages. Discover more about our services available in Edmonton and St. Albert.
Who Can Benefit from Sandplay Therapy?
Sandplay therapy is a valuable tool for a wide range of individuals in Edmonton and St. Albert. It is especially effective for:
- Children facing anxiety, trauma, bullying, divorce, grief, or adjustment challenges. Learn about children's mental health support.
- Teens struggling with identity, self-esteem, peer conflict, or school-related stress. Explore teens' mental health counseling.
- Adults experiencing trauma, loss, relationship issues, or life transitions. See more about adult counseling options.
- Neurodiverse individuals who may find talk-based therapies overwhelming or limiting. Learn about our neurodiversity support.
Our therapists at Wholesome Psychology have specialized training in sandplay methods, ensuring compassionate, evidence-based support for each unique client.
How Sandplay Therapy Works
During a sandplay session, you or your child will have access to a tray of sand and shelves filled with a diverse set of miniatures—such as animals, people, buildings, vehicles, and objects from nature and culture. Guided by a caring therapist, you are encouraged to select and arrange these miniatures in the sand in any way you choose. There are no rules or expectations, allowing for complete freedom of expression.
Through play and creative arrangement, inner thoughts, feelings, and memories may be expressed—sometimes those that are hard to articulate with words alone. The therapist observes and supports this process without judgment, offering gentle reflections when appropriate. Over time, the repeated process of building and revisiting scenes in the sand can promote insight, catharsis, and emotional regulation.
For more information on our approach to play-based healing, visit Play Therapy.
The Healing Power of Play
Sandplay therapy recognizes that play is the natural language of the child and the unconscious mind. For children in particular, it provides a safe distance from direct discussions about upsetting events, allowing them to process difficult emotions indirectly. For adults, the process often uncovers deeply held beliefs or traumas, helping to bring unconscious patterns into awareness and transformation. Read more on child and youth counseling and trauma therapy.
Why Choose Sandplay Therapy at Wholesome Psychology?
- Local Expertise: Our clinics in Edmonton and St. Albert are dedicated to serving families, youth, and adults in our communities with adaptive therapy options. See our North Edmonton and St. Albert Jensen Lakes locations.
- Specialized Therapists: Our counselors are trauma-informed, play therapy certified, and committed to your healing and growth.
- Safe Environment: We foster a supportive, inclusive, and non-judgmental atmosphere, respecting every individual’s background and story.
- Holistic Approach: We collaborate with families, schools, and other healthcare professionals to ensure comprehensive support tailored to Edmonton and St. Albert residents.
Many of our clients choose sandplay therapy in combination with other approaches, such as play therapy, art therapy, or trauma therapy. Our therapists will work with you to recommend the most effective therapeutic options based on your needs.
Sandplay Therapy for Common Challenges
- Trauma & PTSD: Sandplay is gentle for those with trauma, providing a safe way to express pain and begin recovery. Learn more about our trauma and PTSD support and trauma therapy.
- Anxiety & Stress: The soothing, hands-on method can calm anxiety and increase emotional resilience in children and adults alike. Find our approach to anxiety and depression and stress management.
- Grief & Loss: Sandplay creates a symbolic language for children and families to process loss, whether from death, divorce, or separation. See more about grief and loss support.
- Developmental & Behavioral Concerns: Our team is experienced in supporting neurodiverse children and those with learning or behavioural differences. Explore our related support for neurodiversity and children’s mental health.
What to Expect from Sandplay Therapy Sessions
Sandplay therapy is client-led and paced to respect your comfort and readiness. The first session often includes:
- Introductory conversation with the therapist to discuss goals and concerns
- Introduction to the sand tray and miniature figures
- Freedom to create, observe, or simply explore at your own pace
- Collaboration with parents for young clients, including feedback, support, and goal-setting
As sessions progress, healing is facilitated through both verbal and nonverbal communication. You are never pressured to talk about your creations unless you wish to. Therapists follow ethical standards and maintain strict confidentiality at all times.
If you are preparing your child for therapy, visit our guide on preparing children for therapy.
Is Sandplay Therapy Right for You or Your Child?
Sandplay therapy is especially valuable for individuals who find it difficult to talk about their thoughts and feelings. It is welcoming to people with limited language skills, trauma histories, or who simply prefer expressing themselves creatively. If you or a loved one are navigating:
…sandplay therapy can be a gentle and effective path toward healing.
Connect With Specialized Sandplay Therapists in Edmonton & St. Albert
Your journey toward healing and self-discovery can begin today. If you’re curious whether sandplay therapy is suitable for you, your child, or your family, we invite you to reach out.
Meet our caring therapists or contact us to book a no-obligation consultation. We are dedicated to supporting Edmonton and St. Albert families with compassionate, strengths-focused counseling tailored for all life stages.
Explore More Counseling Options
Wholesome Psychology: Where healing begins in the heart of Edmonton and St. Albert. To find answers to common questions, visit our FAQ page or read about our fees and getting started process.
