Sandtray Therapy
At Olive Branch Therapy Group, our trained therapists use Sandtray Therapy to help clients access parts of themselves that traditional talk therapy might not reach. The process is both structured and deeply intuitive — allowing healing to unfold at the client’s pace, in a safe, supportive environment.
Sometimes words aren’t enough to express what’s happening inside.
The process allows clients to:Express complex emotions symbolically and safely
- Process trauma or grief without being overwhelmed
- Explore identity, relationships, and inner conflicts
- Build self-awareness and emotional regulation
- Strengthen a sense of control and empowerment
The beauty of Sandtray Therapy is that there’s no right or wrong way to participate. The sand and symbols become a language of their own — one that helps clients externalize what’s been hard to verbalize.
How Santray Therapy Works
What is EXRP Therapy?
- Gradually face fears and triggers in a safe, controlled environment.
- Practice response prevention, resisting the urge to perform compulsions.
- Retrain your brain to tolerate uncertainty, reduce anxiety, and weaken obsessive patterns over time.
EXRP isn’t about forcing change — it’s about learning new ways to relate to your thoughts and feelings. Our therapists guide you step by step, ensuring every exposure is handled with care and collaboration.
Our Approach to Sandtray Therapy
At Olive Branch Therapy Group, Sandtray Therapy is integrated within a broader therapeutic framework — combining creative exploration with evidence-based techniques.
Your therapist may weave in elements of:
- Play Therapy (for children)
- Trauma-Informed Care
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- Mindfulness and Self-Compassion Practices
- Attachment-Based Work
This combination allows clients to explore symbolically while still developing concrete skills for emotional regulation, coping, and growth.
What to Expect in Sandtray Therapy Sessions
While every Sandtray session is unique, a typical process may include:
Sessions are gentle and paced around your comfort level — there’s no pressure to interpret or perform. Healing unfolds naturally through the creative process.
Your therapist explains the sandtray process and invites you to explore freely.
introduction
You build your sand world using figures and objects that feel meaningful.
creation
Together, you and your therapist notice patterns, emotions, and insights that arise.
reflection
You process what you’ve discovered and connect it to your life outside the tray.
integration
- Struggle to express themselves verbally
- Have experienced trauma, grief, or loss
- Are navigating major life transitions
- Live with anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem
- Are children or teens learning emotional awareness
- Are adults seeking deeper self-understanding through creative expression
Who Can Benefit from Sandtray Therapy
- Healing from trauma and loss
- Building self-awareness and confidence
- Developing emotional language and regulation
- Strengthening resilience and problem-solving skills
- Encouraging playfulness, creativity, and self-expression
Why Sandtray Therapy Matters
Start Sandtray Therapy in New Jersey
If you or your child could benefit from a creative, supportive way to process emotions, Olive Branch Therapy Group is here to help. Our licensed therapists offer Sandtray Therapy in East Brunswick, Somerville, and online across New Jersey.
