Svitlana Barakat
Training hours: 1300
Sandplay Therapy
A non-verbal therapy using symbolic play in sand to express and process inner experiences.
Sandplay therapy is an art therapy approach rooted in analytical psychology. Its core principle is creating a safe, non-judgmental space where clients—children or adults—can express and explore their inner world by transforming experiences and emotions into tangible, visual forms. The method stimulates imagination, allowing abstract images to take concrete shape. The primary tools are a sand tray and sand, supplemented by water and miniature figures. Clients are encouraged to use the sand tray to represent their problem, its context, key participants, and associated images, symbolically work through emerging desires, analyze the chosen narrative, materials, and figures, imbue them with emotions, and reflect on their feelings throughout the process. Special attention is paid to both the formal aspects of the created images and their emotional depth. The therapist draws on the client’s experiences, group dynamics (in group sessions), and their own intuitive insights. Sandplay therapy is effective for children, adults, and individuals who benefit from art therapy, and can be conducted individually or in groups for diagnostic, therapeutic, or developmental purposes. The work unfolds across three key directions: direct engagement with the client’s presenting issue; alignment with broader therapeutic goals; and, at times, exploration of a predefined theme.
Sandplay therapy provides a natural and engaging way for psychologists to work with children. Play in a sand tray, guided by a therapist, creates an ideal environment for a child to express emotions, resolve conflicts, and overcome fears. Sand allows children to project their inner state, explore challenges, experiment with social roles, and experience a sense of creation. The method fosters creativity, imagination, and self-expression while strengthening self-esteem and independence. It also enhances fine motor skills, helps manage aggression, reduces anxiety, and supports balanced development of both brain hemispheres—creative and analytical.
Psychologists trained in Sandplay Therapy
Have certificates of training in the method: 14 specialists
Natalia Kalashlinska
Training hours: 500
Olha Mykhailivna Hrynchyshyna
Training hours: 352
Iryna Sheremet
Training hours: 170
Oleksandra Tsyhyka
Training hours: 160
Nataliia Serhiivna Horbatko
Training hours: 100
Tatiana Orlova
Training hours: 80
Valeriya Tayz
Training hours: 60
Oksana Medvid
Training hours: 30
Nataliia Bamburak
Training hours: 30
Olena Herzhenii
Training hours: 16
Iryna Grashchenko
Training hours: 2
Olena Stankova
Vira Petrivna Khapilova
