The value of using sandplay as a tool for counselling within a school setting

Abstract

This paper proposes that sandplay can be a useful tool for counsellors within the school setting. It follows previous work by O’Brien and Burnett (2000a, 2000b; O’Brien,1999), who proposed that sandplay allows the counsellor to integrate all eight intelligences proposed by Howard Gardner (1983). A short historical account of sandplay therapy is followed by a discussion of its therapeutic value, aims and client–therapist relationship. The authors propose that sandplay uses a combination of spoken language, deductive reasoning, art and music therapy, symbols, narratives, and social and intrapersonal skills. This combination is inclusive of children with disabilities and appreciates the diversity all learners bring into the counselling sessions. Constraints on its effective use in schools are also discussed. The conclusion encourages counsellors to overcome the constraints and use sandplay on a regular basis within the school setting.