Sandtray therapy has long been a valuable tool in helping children express emotions, process trauma, and communicate experiences that may be difficult to verbalize. In Postmodern Sandplay: An Introduction for Play Therapists, Tabitha Gallerani and Phillip Dybicz introduce a modern evolution of this approach—one that shifts the focus from diagnosis to identity-building.
Traditional sandplay therapy often positions the therapist as the expert, interpreting symbols and uncovering unconscious meaning. While effective, this model can sometimes limit the client’s role in shaping their own story. In contrast, postmodern sandplay therapy reframes the process: the client becomes the “author” of their narrative, while the therapist takes on the role of a collaborative “editor.”
This shift is rooted in postmodern therapeutic principles such as narrative therapy and strengths-based approaches. Instead of focusing primarily on problems or pathology, the emphasis is placed on the client’s strengths, values, and preferred identity—who they want to be, rather than what they’ve been through.
At the core of this model is the idea that people understand their lives through stories. These narratives are made up of key events, but also smaller, often overlooked moments that shape identity. For example, a child in therapy for trauma may have a story dominated by painful experiences. However, by highlighting positive moments—helping a sibling, showing persistence, or protecting others—the therapist helps build an alternative narrative centered on resilience and strength.
Sandtray therapy becomes the ideal medium for this work. Through play, children naturally express their internal world using symbols and storytelling. This creates a safe, non-threatening environment where identity can be explored and reshaped. Instead of interpreting the meaning of a child’s sandtray, the therapist engages with curiosity, asking open-ended questions and allowing the child to define their own meaning.
A key technique in this approach is adopting a “not knowing” stance. This means the therapist avoids assumptions and instead shows genuine curiosity about the child’s perspective. This fosters collaboration and empowers the client to take ownership of their story.
At the same time, therapists also play an active role by gently guiding the conversation. Through thoughtful, reflective, and sometimes “reactive” questions, they help clients consider new possibilities. For example, a child who identifies strength only as physical might be encouraged to recognize emotional resilience, persistence, or kindness as forms of strength.
One of the most important aspects of postmodern sandtray therapy is building what’s called a “preferred identity” before addressing trauma directly. By first reinforcing positive traits and personal agency, therapists create a foundation of psychological safety. This ensures that when difficult topics are explored, the child does not feel defined by their trauma.
Ultimately, this approach transforms sandtray therapy into more than just a diagnostic tool—it becomes a powerful method for identity development and empowerment. By helping clients rewrite their narratives, therapists support lasting emotional growth and resilience.
Author Credit:
This blog is based on the work of Tabitha Gallerani and Phillip Dybicz, originally published in the International Journal of Play Therapy.
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Postmodern Sandplay: An Introduction for Play Therapists by Tabitha Gallerani and Phillip Dybicz is attached above for full reference and deeper exploration.
