Introduction to Sandplay Therapy

Sandplay Therapy is a play-based technique that is a valuable tool for counsellors looking for a nonverbal, less intrusive, and fun adjunct to the mainly cognitive and behavioural modalities of traditional "talking" therapies. It is a self-directed and expressive therapy, and suitable for use by adults and children alike from many client populations. It provides a multiple intelligences perspective, and has proved an effective aid in helping the processing, containment, and healing of emotional trauma – such as grief, anxiety, aggression, and even physical pain.

Sandplay is a healing tool which opens the window into the psyche, accessing unconscious material and making it conscious by giving it form. Sandplay Therapy works by using real symbols from life (utilising small objects, pieces and figures) placed into a tray of sand to form a picture. The tray symbolises a protected space that is safe for expression; the sand is the place that land and water merge and represents a bridge between the conscious and the unconscious. The figurines or miniatures are symbolic of the world at large. This can lead to profound shifts in levels of understanding and emotional healing. One of the attributes of Sandplay Therapy is that change comes from within the client.

This workshop will focus significantly on experiential learning and interactive participation. As the therapy is not diagnostic, this workshop will provide a first level of training to give encouragement and confidence to participants in working with Sandplay. The aim is to be a neutral and honoured witness to your client’s self expression. It is about the gaining of insight, a reflection or narrative about what is created, and integration into the client’s life experience.

About the Presenter

Cathy Banks

(Grad.Dip Couns & Psychotherapy, B.Bus Psych/Mktg, Dip Mgt)

Cathy Banks is an experienced Counsellor, Psychotherapist and Workplace Trainer. Cathy has gained experience in organisations such as ANZ Bank, Dept of Corrective Services (Probation & Parole), public schools, and private clinics. Cathy now works in her own private practice in Chatswood, Sydney, specialising in working with children, particularly in the areas of grief, trauma, anxiety, and depression. Cathy continues to work in Sydney schools as a Consultant and Group Facilitator, designing and running programmes for the prevention and treatment of anxiety and depression, resilience training, and social skills. Cathy obtained accreditation as a Sandplay Therapist from the Jansen Newman Institute of Counselling & Applied Psychotherapy.

NALAG Centre for Loss and Grief

Welchman Street

Dubbo, NSW

$220.00 (inc GST)*

*Early Bird Online Special

To take advantage of this offer you must register and pay online by Friday 13th January 2012.  Places limited so register early.

$250.00 (inc GST)

Non NALAG Member

$230.00 (inc GST)

NALAG Member

The attendance fee is inclusive of morning tea lunch and afternoon tea, comprehensive manual and certificate of attendance.

Information for Participants

Cancellation and Refund Policy