What Is Sand Tray Therapy?
Using a tray of sand and a collection of miniature figures, children create scenes that reflect their inner world. These scenes often reveal emotions, experiences, relationships, fears, and strengths that may be difficult to verbalize.
Rather than focusing on creating something “right,” Sand Tray Therapy allows children to safely explore thoughts and feelings through imagination, creativity, and symbolic expression.
For many children, this process feels natural, calming, and empowering.
Sand Tray Therapy is especially helpful for:
- Trauma
- Anxiety
- Grief
- Family changes
- Behavioral concerns
- Emotional regulation difficulties
- Attachment concerns
- Self-esteem challenges
Because healing doesn’t always happen through conversation, Sand Tray Therapy offers another meaningful pathway toward emotional wellness.
Our Approach
At Unite Counseling & Therapy, we believe every child deserves to feel seen, heard, and valued.
Our therapists create a nurturing environment where children can safely explore emotions while learning practical skills that support healthy development.
Treatment is always individualized based on your child’s unique personality, developmental stage, strengths, and needs.
Depending on your child’s goals, therapy may incorporate:
- Play Therapy Principles
- Sand Tray Therapy
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- Creative Art-based interventions
- Mindfulness Practices
- Emotional regulation skills
- Trauma-informed care
- Parent collaboration and support
Parents are an important part of the therapeutic process. While sessions often focus on your child’s individual needs, we also work collaboratively with caregivers by providing guidance, education, and strategies to continue supporting progress at home.
Meet Your Therapist
Sofia Marks, MS, LPC, NCC
Sofia Marks provides Sand Tray Therapy for children ages 8 and older, as well as therapy for teens, young adults, adults, couples, and families.
Sofia is passionate about creating a welcoming, supportive environment where children feel emotionally safe and accepted. She understands that every child communicates differently and tailors each session to meet their developmental needs and individual personality.
Drawing from Play Therapy, Sand Tray Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), trauma-informed care, expressive therapy, somatic interventions, and EMDR principles when appropriate, Sofia helps children process difficult emotions while building confidence, resilience, and healthy coping skills.
She works closely with parents to foster lasting growth both inside and outside the therapy room.
Is Sand Tray Therapy Right for My Child?
Many parents wonder whether their child is “too young” or whether therapy is really necessary.
If your child has experienced significant changes, seems overwhelmed by emotions, struggles with behavior, or simply isn’t acting like themselves, therapy can provide valuable support.
Children often respond well to creative, engaging therapeutic approaches because they feel less intimidating than traditional talk therapy.
Early intervention can help prevent small challenges from becoming larger ones while giving children tools they’ll use for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
What age is Play Therapy appropriate for?
Is Sand Tray Therapy only for children?
Will parents be involved?
How long does therapy take?
Help Your Child Thrive
Every child deserves the opportunity to feel confident, connected, and emotionally supported.
Whether your child is struggling with anxiety, behavioral challenges, trauma, grief, or simply needs extra support through life’s transitions, Play Therapy and Sand Tray Therapy can provide a safe path toward healing and growth.
If you’re ready to help your child build confidence, resilience, and healthy emotional skills, we’re here to help.
Contact Unite Counseling & Therapy today to schedule an appointment with Sofia Marks, MS, LPC, NCC, and learn how Play Therapy and Sand Tray Therapy can support your child’s emotional well-being.