Witnessing the creation of a sand tray can be a profound experience, as the patient’s unconscious, body-based, right brain image-creating capacities connect directly to our own psyches, evoking our empathy and affects. Later when looking at photographs of the sand tray, we reflect in a more objective way that is informed by our earlier empathic connection, our history with the patient, our clinical training, and our knowledge of symbols. We will share an enriching experience as we apply the course material to the viewing of sand trays!

2. Distinguish between ways of perceiving and reflecting on a sand tray.

3. Distinguish between ways of perceiving and reflecting on a sand tray.

4. Give two examples of how this course has enriched your way of witnessing and reflection on a sand tray.

5. Describe how reflection on a sand tray can be integrated into further clinical work with the patient.

A symbol, as the word is used in Jungian psychology, embraces the known and the unknown. A living symbol feels magnetic and full of energy. It seems to contain something that could be expressed in no other way and carries the promise of something that wants to be known but is still mysterious. Sandplay, with its use of miniatures, naturally evokes the symbol-making function of the psyche. Through lecture, experiential activities, and case examples, you will have the opportunity to connect on a deep level to this work and to integrate your understanding with the experience of a meaningful symbol.

1. Describe the difference between Jung’s use of the word “symbol” and the ordinary use of the word.

2. Explain the limitation of using a symbol dictionary in order to understand a symbol.

3. Describe at least three ways to work with a symbol when a discussion is introduced by the patient, including curiosity without direct questions, associations, and active imagination through narrative or context creation.

4. Describe how symbols and the transcendent function promote healing.

5. Discover a symbol that will support you in maintaining the “free and protected space” of sandplay.

This workshop will explore a journey to the depths, as symbolized the fundamental constituents of reality. We will learn from the European alchemists who set out to “explore the nature of the four elements,” according to the ancient Greeks. Our exploration will include the five elements of classic Chinese culture, with a focus on “The Way of Water.” Dora Kalff, the founder of Jungian sandplay therapy, practiced a Tibetan Buddhism. She emphasized the elements of that tradition, including the basic geometric shapes that symbolize the elements. While this topic may on first glance appear abstract, it is just the opposite: our primal sensory and body experiences are evoked. We are brought into a world of dynamic contrasts that challenges us to become more aware of the inner experience of transformation. This workshop will combine lecture, discussion, and experiential exercises, as well as examples from sand trays.

2. Describe the creative and destructive aspects of each element.

3. Recognize the symbolism of elements in a sand tray.

4. Explore an element of your choosing in relation to sandplay.