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The Sandtray Therapy Journey
Donna Mirus
24 episodes
5 days ago
Sandtray Therapy is more than playing in the sand. Mental Health Professionals use this modality to treat all clients of all ages. Join me as we embark on this journey in discovering how sandtray therapy can bring healing and transformation not only for your clients and practice, but also for yourself.
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Mental Health
Health & Fitness
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All content for The Sandtray Therapy Journey is the property of Donna Mirus and is served directly from their servers with no modification, redirects, or rehosting. The podcast is not affiliated with or endorsed by Podjoint in any way.
Sandtray Therapy is more than playing in the sand. Mental Health Professionals use this modality to treat all clients of all ages. Join me as we embark on this journey in discovering how sandtray therapy can bring healing and transformation not only for your clients and practice, but also for yourself.
Show more...
Mental Health
Health & Fitness
Episodes (20/24)
The Sandtray Therapy Journey
Manifesting New Beginnings: Integrating Vision Boards into Sandtray Therapy for Mental Health Professionals

Welcome to a transformative episode of "The Sandtray Therapy Journey" with your host, Donna Mirus.

In this enlightening exploration, Donna delves into the powerful integration of vision boards and manifestation techniques into sandtray therapy.

As we step into 2024, Donna reflects on the growth of the Canadian Sandtray Institute, celebrating the incredible community that has fueled this journey.

Join her in uncovering the science behind visualization, the mindset of manifestation, and a step-by-step guide on seamlessly incorporating these techniques into your therapeutic practice.

Whether you're a seasoned therapist or just starting, this episode offers rich insights, research, and practical tips to guide your clients toward manifesting new beginnings through sandtray therapy. www.canadiansandtrayinstitute.ca

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1 year ago
22 minutes 39 seconds

The Sandtray Therapy Journey
Embracing Grief and Loss in Sandtray Therapy: Navigating the Waves of Emotion

In this touching and insightful episode of 'The Sandtray Therapy Journey,' hosted by Donna Mirus of the Canadian Sandtray Institute, we delve deep into the realm of grief and loss through the transformative lens of Sandtray Therapy. Join Donna as she guides mental health professionals of all levels, from beginners to advanced practitioners, through the multifaceted process of healing from grief.

This episode not only explores the universal experience of grief but also provides practical, directive and non-directive approaches within Sandtray Therapy to aid this emotional journey.

Whether you're seeking advanced insights or foundational knowledge, this episode is a comprehensive guide to understanding and applying Sandtray Therapy in the context of grief and loss.

  1. Understanding Universal Grief: Delve into the concept of grief as a universal, inevitable human experience and its importance in our understanding of life and mortality.

  2. Brain Integration and Grief: Explore Daniel Siegel's concept of temporal integration and its relevance in understanding the complexities of grief and loss.

  3. Manifestations of Grief in Sandtray Therapy: Learn about how the five stages of grief, as proposed by Elisabeth Kübler-Ross, can manifest in the sandtray through various symbols and arrangements.

  4. Directive and Non-Directive Approaches: Gain insights into how to use both directive and non-directive approaches in Sandtray Therapy to support clients experiencing grief.

  5. Ten Directive Examples for Grief Exploration: Discover ten practical directives that can be used in sandtray sessions to help clients articulate and process their feelings of grief.

  6. Case Study – Sam's Anger and Healing Journey: Dive into a detailed case study of an 8-year-old boy, Sam, navigating the anger and confusion stemming from the loss of his father.

  7. Adult Grief in Sandtray Therapy: Understand the complexity of adult grief in sandtray work, exploring themes of isolation, emotional fragmentation, and existential questioning.

  8. Children's Unique Expressions of Grief: Learn how children may express grief in abstract and metaphorical ways in the sandtray and how to interpret these expressions.

  9. Interactive Exercise with Listener Participation: Engage in interactive exercises designed for listeners to apply their knowledge and skills in hypothetical scenarios involving grieving clients.

  10. Closing Thoughts and Reflections: Reflect on the lessons learned in the episode and the transformative power of Sandtray Therapy in navigating the challenging journey of grief and loss.

This episode is crafted to enrich your understanding and application of Sandtray Therapy in contexts of grief and loss, offering a blend of theoretical knowledge, practical skills, and emotional insight. Whether you're seeking to deepen your professional expertise or exploring new therapeutic avenues, this episode is an essential resource in your Sandtray Therapy journey.


10 Directives

1. Create a tray that represents how you're feeling right now.

2. Build a world that shows what you wish you could say to the person you've lost.

3. Use the miniatures  to represent your support system during this time.

4. Make a world that shows a memory you have with the person you're grieving.

5. Build a world that represents your life before the loss, and then modify it to reflect life after the loss.

6. Create a tray that shows the hardest part of your day.

7. Use the sandtray to show what comfort looks like to you.

8. Build a scene that represents your hopes for the future.

9. Make a tray that captures a dream or nightmare you've had since your loss.

10. Create a world in the tray that shows how you envision healing or moving forward

2024 Calgary, Alberta Sandtray Therapy Credential Program is NOW OPEN for registration @ www.canadiansandtrayinstitute.ca

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1 year ago
20 minutes 42 seconds

The Sandtray Therapy Journey
Unearthing Shame: How Sandtray Therapy Helps Us Confront Our Deepest Emotion

In this eye-opening episode, your host Donna Mirus guides you through the labyrinthine landscape of shame—a complex, yet often misunderstood emotion. Drawing from the work of Brené Brown, an expert on vulnerability, empathy, and shame, we dig deep into what shame really means and how it affects both individuals and the relationships around them. This episode is packed with insights that will arm mental health professionals with tools to help their clients face their shame through Sandtray Therapy.

Introduction

  • Welcome back and quick updates on recent sandtray trainings in Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
  • Brief orientation for new listeners.

Understanding Shame

  • Definition and distinctions from guilt.
  • How shame manifests in behaviors and conditions like addiction, aggression, and depression.

Brené Brown's Work

  • Exploring the "Shame Shields"—the defense mechanisms people use to protect themselves from shame.

Application in Sandtray Therapy

  • Initial sessions in sandtray aimed at teaching healthy coping.
  • Methods to help clients identify their shame shields in the sandtray.

Building Shame Resilience

  • Steps in teaching your clients to combat shame.

Back to Basics

  • Miniature collection essentials and their significance in treating shame in adults.

Case Study

  • Journey through "Anna’s" story, a client who battled shame due to past trauma.

This episode provides a detailed guide for mental health professionals looking to enhance their understanding of shame and its intricacies, offering a richer, more nuanced approach to helping their clients through Sandtray Therapy.

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2 years ago
18 minutes 14 seconds

The Sandtray Therapy Journey
Unlocking the Secrets of Jealousy: A Sandtray Therapy Approach for Therapists

Welcome to another transformative episode where we delve into the intricate emotion of jealousy through the unique lens of Sandtray Therapy. Jealousy is a complex emotion that can strain relationships and hinder personal growth. In this episode, we explore how Sandtray Therapy offers a safe, non-judgmental space for clients to express, explore, and transform their feelings of jealousy.

We begin by defining jealousy and distinguishing it from envy, drawing upon insights from renowned researcher Brené Brown. We then discuss the underlying fears and insecurities that often fuel jealousy, such as fear of loss, rejection, and abandonment. Through a compelling case study featuring "Sophie," we illustrate how Sandtray Therapy can help clients gain a deeper understanding of their jealousy, its triggers, and healthier coping mechanisms.

Whether you're a seasoned therapist or new to the field, this episode will equip you with valuable insights and practical tools for helping your clients navigate the complexities of jealousy. Learn how to guide your clients toward emotional transformation and personal growth using Sandtray Therapy.

www.canadiansandtrayinstitute.ca


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2 years ago
10 minutes 59 seconds

The Sandtray Therapy Journey
Transforming Anger Through Sandtray Therapy

Welcome to another enlightening episode where we tackle the complex emotions of anger and aggression through the lens of Sandtray Therapy. As mental health professionals, understanding the multifaceted nature of anger is crucial for effective therapeutic intervention. In this episode, we delve deep into how Sandtray Therapy offers a unique, non-verbal approach to exploring and transforming these powerful emotions.

We discuss common coping strategies like suppression, displacement, and aggression, and contrast them with healthier alternatives such as mindful awareness, expression, and relaxation techniques. Through real-life case studies, we demonstrate how the sandtray serves as a safe, contained space for clients to externalize and explore their anger, thereby facilitating a deeper understanding of its origins and triggers.

Whether you're a seasoned therapist or new to the field, this episode will equip you with valuable insights and practical tools for helping your clients navigate the turbulent waters of anger and aggression. Tune in to discover how Sandtray Therapy can be a game-changer in your practice, enabling you to guide your clients toward emotional transformation and personal growth.

This episode is a must-listen for therapists looking to expand their toolkit and gain a nuanced understanding of anger management through Sandtray Therapy. Don't miss out on this journey towards becoming a more effective and empathetic mental health professional.

www.canadiansandtrayinstitute.ca⁠

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2 years ago
16 minutes 43 seconds

The Sandtray Therapy Journey
Exploring Transference & Projection in Sandtray Therapy: A Guide to Understanding & Managing

Explore the intricate world of transference and projection in Sandtray Therapy with this enlightening episode. Transference, the unconscious transfer of feelings from past relationships onto the therapist, and projection, the unconscious attribution of personal feelings onto others, are central to the therapeutic process. In Sandtray Therapy, these phenomena take on unique dimensions, manifesting through non-verbal, symbolic expressions.

Join us as we delve into:

  • Understanding Transference and Projection: Definitions, differences, and how they manifest in Sandtray Therapy.
  • The Impact of Transference and Projection: How they can provide insights into a client's inner world or distort the therapeutic relationship.
  • Managing Transference and Projection: Strategies for awareness, interpretation, and intervention to guide clients towards healing and growth.
  • Case Studies: Real-world examples illustrating how transference and projection can be managed in Sandtray Therapy.
  • Ethical Considerations: Guidelines for handling these phenomena with integrity and professionalism.

Whether you're a seasoned therapist or new to Sandtray Therapy, this episode offers valuable insights and practical guidance on navigating the complex terrain of transference and projection. Learn how to recognize, interpret, and manage these phenomena to deepen your therapeutic work and enhance your empathy. Subscribe and listen today to become a more insightful and effective therapist.

www.canadiansandtrayinstitute.ca

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2 years ago
14 minutes 11 seconds

The Sandtray Therapy Journey
Exploring Countertransference in Sandtray Therapy: A Guide for Mental Health Professionals

Countertransference in Sandtray Therapy is an essential episode for mental health professionals seeking to deepen their understanding of this complex phenomenon. Join us as we delve into the world of Sandtray Therapy, a unique therapeutic approach that utilizes non-verbal, symbolic expressions. In this episode, we explore the concept of countertransference, first introduced by Sigmund Freud, and its significant impact on the therapeutic relationship.

We begin by defining countertransference and its origins, highlighting how therapists' emotional reactions to clients can be influenced by personal histories, biases, and unresolved issues. We then examine how countertransference manifests specifically in Sandtray Therapy, where the symbolic nature can evoke powerful emotions in both clients and therapists.

The episode further explores the positive and negative impacts of countertransference in Sandtray Therapy, from enhancing empathy and understanding to clouding judgment and hindering objectivity. We provide in-depth guidance on managing countertransference, including cultivating self-awareness, practicing mindfulness, establishing clear boundaries, seeking regular supervision and consultation, and prioritizing self-care.

Through detailed case studies, we illustrate how countertransference can manifest in Sandtray Therapy and how it can be managed effectively. We also discuss the ethical considerations related to countertransference, including the pros and cons of disclosing countertransference to clients and transferring clients to another therapist.

Whether you're a seasoned mental health professional or new to the field of Sandtray Therapy, this episode offers valuable insights and practical strategies for recognizing and managing countertransference. Learn how to navigate this multifaceted emotional reaction with ethical integrity, enhancing your empathy, deepening your therapeutic work, and becoming a better therapist.

Key topics covered include:

  • Definition and Origins of Countertransference
  • Impact of Countertransference in Sandtray Therapy
  • Managing Countertransference: Self-Awareness, Mindfulness, Boundaries, Supervision, Self-Care
  • Ethical Considerations: Disclosing Countertransference, Transferring Clients
  • Case Studies: Real-world Examples of Countertransference in Sandtray Therapy

Don't miss this comprehensive exploration of countertransference in Sandtray Therapy.

Subscribe, listen, and enhance your therapeutic skills today

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2 years ago
19 minutes 8 seconds

The Sandtray Therapy Journey
Mindful Journeys: Merging Sandtray Therapy with Mindfulness

In this episode of "Mindful Journeys," we focus on the integration of Sandtray Therapy and Mindfulness-Based Approaches for mental health professionals. Discover how combining these therapeutic modalities enhances therapeutic healing and personal growth. Through real-life case studies, like those of "Anna" and "Mark," we illustrate the benefits and techniques of this integration. Plus, for therapists at all career stages, we delve into essential self-care strategies using Sandtray and Mindfulness. Whether you're a new therapist or a seasoned expert, this episode offers valuable insights and tools for your practice.

www.canadiansandtrayinstitute.ca

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2 years ago
15 minutes 59 seconds

The Sandtray Therapy Journey
The Power of Metaphor: Unveiling the Magic of Sandtray Therapy

In this enlightening episode, I'll delve deep into the transformative world of Sandtray Therapy. Together we will explore how metaphors, expressed through sand and miniatures, serve as a powerful bridge between the conscious and unconscious mind, facilitating profound emotional understanding and healing. We will discuss case studies, illustrating how clients use metaphors to externalize complex emotions and experiences, and how therapists interpret these metaphors to guide therapeutic conversations.

I'll also uncover the neurobiology behind Sandtray Therapy, explaining how this non-verbal, metaphorical approach engages the right hemisphere of the brain, fostering emotional engagement and intuitive thinking. From the selection of miniatures to the arrangement of the sandtray, every element carries a metaphorical meaning, reflecting the client's unique inner world.

Whether you're a therapist seeking to enrich your practice, a student of psychology, or someone interested in innovative therapeutic techniques, this episode offers a wealth of insights into the transformative power of metaphors in Sandtray Therapy. Tune in to discover how this creative form of therapy can facilitate self-discovery, healing, and growth.

www.canadiansandtrayinstitute.ca

www.facebook.com/canadiansandtrayinstitute

#sandtray #sandtraytherapy #sandtraytherapytraining

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2 years ago
15 minutes 37 seconds

The Sandtray Therapy Journey
Navigating Ethics in Sandtray Therapy

Dive into a thoughtful exploration of ethics in the realm of Sandtray Therapy in our latest episode, "Navigating Ethics in Sandtray Therapy". This episode illuminates the nuances of ethical considerations in this unique, expressive form of therapy.

I'll discuss the principles that serve as the backbone of any therapeutic practice, specifically focusing on the intimate nature of Sandtray Therapy.

Learn about the role of professional guidelines as a sandtray therapist, such as those from the International Association of Sandtray Therapy (IAST), in maintaining your sandtray practice.

If you're a mental health professional seeking to enrich your understanding of Sandtray Therapy, this episode provides invaluable insights. Join us as we strive for the highest ethical standards in therapy, and learn to better support your clients in their journeys towards self-discovery and healing.

⁠www.canadiansandtrayinstitute.ca⁠

⁠www.sandtraytherapy.org⁠⁠

www.facebook.com/canadiansandtray⁠

⁠www.instagram.com/canadiansandtray⁠

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2 years ago
9 minutes 44 seconds

The Sandtray Therapy Journey
The Art of Documenting Sandtray Therapy

This episode provides an outline for mental health professionals navigating the nuances of documenting the therapeutic journeys of their clients.

I dive into why documentation is critical in this unique therapeutic modality, providing a record of the process, facilitating reflection and understanding, and ensuring accountability.

From understanding the importance of tracking progress to grasping legal and ethical requirements, this will help you enhance your professional practice. Discover practical strategies to document critical elements such as client interactions, miniature placement, session details, and processing phases.

I discuss various methods of documentation including sandtray photographs and video recordings.

Tune in as I explore how thoughtful and meticulous documentation is more than a task; it's a tool, a mirror reflecting the therapeutic process, and an integral part of the therapy itself. Whether you're a seasoned professional or new to the field, this podcast equips you with the knowledge to harness the full potential of sandtray therapy, supporting your clients in their journeys towards healing and self-discovery

www.canadiansandtrayinstitute.ca


#sandtray #sandtraytherapy #sandtraytherapyjourney #mentalhealthprofessionals #sandtraydocumentation

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2 years ago
11 minutes 34 seconds

The Sandtray Therapy Journey
Building Coping Skills: Exploring Sandtray Therapy for Anxiety and Depression

In this insightful episode, we delve into the intricate steps of utilizing sandtray therapy as a transformative tool for teaching coping skills to individuals managing anxiety and depression. Each step is carefully crafted to create a safe therapeutic environment, engage neurobiology education, and guide clients through self-expression and exploration.

Join us as we explore the fundamental steps of sandtray therapy for coping skills development.

www.canadiansandtrayinstitute.ca


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2 years ago
21 minutes 21 seconds

The Sandtray Therapy Journey
Unlocking Healing and Transformation: Sandtray Therapy for Adults

Welcome to another enlightening episode of our podcast, where we dive into the profound world of sandtray therapy. In today's discussion, we explore the often-underestimated potential of sandtray therapy as a transformative tool for adults. Discover how this tactile modality transcends verbal limitations, tapping into the depths of conscious and unconscious memories, and facilitating profound healing journeys.

Join us as we delve into the rationale behind using sandtray therapy with adults, unveiling the power of unspoken memories and emotions that find expression through the sandtray. Learn effective strategies to introduce sandtray therapy to adult clients, including the significance of sensory engagement and the therapeutic value of miniatures. Our expert shares practical insights on establishing a safe and nurturing environment, setting boundaries, and embracing the unique needs of adult clients.

Explore real-life case studies that highlight the remarkable impact of sandtray therapy for adults. Witness how unresolved trauma, anxiety, and relationship struggles can find solace and resolution within the sandtray. Gain invaluable knowledge on integrating clinical theories into sandtray sessions, and discover the holistic approach that leads to transformative outcomes.

Whether you're a seasoned practitioner or new to the world of sandtray therapy, this episode offers valuable insights and techniques to enhance your practice. Join us as we unlock the healing potential of sandtray therapy for adults and embark on a journey of growth and self-discovery.

Don't miss out on this captivating episode of The Sandtray Journey Podcast. Tune in now and let the transformative power of sandtray therapy inspire your professional path. Share your own experiences and insights on our social platforms as we continue to explore the limitless possibilities of this remarkable therapeutic approach. Remember, every grain of sand holds the potential for profound transformation. Take the next step on your sandtray therapy journey today!

www.canadiansandtrayinstitute.ca

www.facebook.com/canadiansandtray

www.instagram.com/canadiansandtray

www.tiktok.com/canadiansandtrayinstitute

#sandtraytherapy #sandtraytherapytraining


Don't miss out on the Canadian Sandtray Institute's Credential Training Program- check out the details on the website.

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2 years ago
16 minutes 13 seconds

The Sandtray Therapy Journey
Sandtray Therapy- Working with Children

Welcome to another enlightening episode of The Sandtray Therapy Journey Podcast. In this episode, we delve into the captivating world of sandtray therapy with children and explore the techniques and strategies mental health professionals can employ to facilitate healing and growth in their young clients.

Sandtray therapy is a powerful process that allows children to create a world in the sandtray, reflecting their internal struggles and conflicts using miniature figures. It has been shown to be beneficial for a wide range of issues, including ADHD, aggression, anger management, anxiety disorders, autism spectrum disorder, depression, grief and loss, low self-esteem, physical and learning disabilities, school-related problems, social issues, trauma, and crisis. Research has demonstrated that sandtray therapy reduces symptoms of various mental health conditions and enhances resilience, enabling youth to release deep-seated negative emotions while feeling accepted by their therapists.

Children have a natural affinity for play, which serves as their primary mode of communication. Sandtray therapy harnesses the healing language of play, providing children with a safe and non-threatening outlet for self-expression and exploration. Drawing inspiration from prominent developmental theorists such as Sigmund Freud, Jean Piaget, and Carl Jung, sandtray therapy allows children to externalize their inner world, engage in imaginative and symbolic play, and gain insight into their experiences.

Building a strong therapeutic relationship based on safety and trust is crucial when working with children in the sandtray. The therapist's presence, attunement to the child's needs, and consistent support establish the foundation for trust to grow. By setting clear boundaries and providing opportunities for autonomy, therapists create a secure therapeutic space that empowers children to fully engage in the healing process.

Trauma often manifests in the sandtray as children express their experiences, emotions, and memories through their creations. Therapists must approach trauma with sensitivity and create a safe container for exploration. Collaboration with other professionals and ongoing professional development is essential to ensure a comprehensive and holistic approach to trauma healing.

Cultural diversity is another important consideration in sandtray therapy. Therapists should be culturally sensitive, offering a diverse range of miniatures that represent different cultural backgrounds to promote inclusivity and understanding. Effective sandtray techniques, such as providing a wide range of miniatures and using open-ended questions and storytelling, facilitate children's exploration and emotional expression.

Real-life case studies illustrate the transformative power of sandtray therapy for children. We explore the journey of Sarah, an 10-year-old girl coping with her parents' divorce, and Alex, a 13-year-old boy dealing with anxiety and bullying. Through their sandtray sessions, Sarah and Alex discover resilience, develop coping strategies, and reclaim their personal power.

Join us on The Sandtray Journey Podcast as we continue to explore the profound impact of sandtray therapy, now focusing on its application with adults. By embracing the language of play and harnessing the transformative potential of the sandtray, we can create a therapeutic space that nurtures healing, self-discovery, and personal growth.


www.canadiansandtrayinstitute.ca

www.facebook.com/canadiansandtray

www.instagram.com/canadiansandtray

#podcast4selfcare

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2 years ago
28 minutes 34 seconds

The Sandtray Therapy Journey
Exploring Directives in Sandtray Therapy: Enhancing Processing and Healing

Welcome to "The Sandtray Therapy Journey" podcast, hosted by Donna Mirus. Join us as we dive into the fascinating world of sandtray therapy and explore the use of directives in this transformative approach. In this episode, we delve into the purpose, benefits, and unique processing experiences offered by directive-based sandtray therapy.

Discover the power of directives as intentional instructions or suggestions given by the therapist to guide the client's sandtray process. Understand how directives enhance the therapeutic journey by focusing the client's attention, facilitating exploration of specific themes or emotions, and promoting targeted growth and healing.

Throughout the episode, we explore the three main purposes of using directives in sandtray therapy: promoting exploration and focus, enhancing symbolic expression, and supporting therapeutic goals. We emphasize the importance of tailoring directives to the client's unique needs and goals, while maintaining a client-centered approach that respects their autonomy and self-expression.

Explore the unique processing experience in directive-based sandtray therapy and how it differs from non-directive approaches. Discover the benefits of structured guidance, targeted exploration, and intentional engagement with emotions, memories, and life experiences. We provide ethical considerations and guidelines for incorporating directives into your sandtray therapy practice, ensuring a client-centered and ethically responsible approach.

Subscribe now to "The Sandtray Therapy Journey" podcast and join Donna Mirus on this enlightening exploration of directive-based sandtray therapy. Gain practical insights, expand your therapeutic toolkit, and discover the transformative power of sandtray therapy with directives. Tune in to unlock the full potential of this therapeutic approach and create a safe and empowering space for profound self-exploration and healing.

Embark on your sandtray therapy journey today and embrace the transformative power of directives in the sandtray.


Get your Free download of 150 sandtray therapy directives: "Across the Lifespan" today! Free 150 Directives! (mailchi.mp)


www.canadiansandtrayinstitute.ca



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2 years ago
8 minutes 54 seconds

The Sandtray Therapy Journey
Processing with Clients in Non-Directive Play Therapy- Adults and Youth

Welcome to "The Sandtray Therapy Journey" podcast, hosted by Donna Mirus. In this captivating podcast, we embark on a transformative exploration of sandtray therapy, its techniques, and its impact on the healing process. Join us as we dive into topics such as non-directive play therapy, processing with clients, and the powerful use of sandtray therapy with children and adults.

In this episode Donna Mirus sheds light on the unique application of non-directive play therapy in the sandtray with both children and adults. Learn how sandtray therapy taps into abstract thinking and allows for deeper self-reflection, integration, and personal growth.

Whether you're a mental health professional, therapist, or simply curious about the transformative power of sandtray therapy, this podcast is your guide to unlocking its potential. Gain practical insights, expand your therapeutic toolkit, and witness the profound impact of sandtray therapy on the healing journey.

Subscribe now to "The Sandtray Therapy Journey" podcast and join Donna Mirus as we embark on an enlightening exploration of sandtray therapy. Let's deepen our understanding, embrace the power of play, and transform lives through the art of sandtray therapy.

www.canadiansandtrayinstitute.ca

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2 years ago
11 minutes 32 seconds

The Sandtray Therapy Journey
Sandtray Techniques for Addressing Self Esteem and Self Worth

Welcome to another insightful episode of the Sandtray Therapy Journey podcast, where we explore the transformative power of sandtray therapy. In today's episode, we delve into the captivating world of Sandtray Therapy techniques focused on exploring self-esteem and self-worth. This episode holds great importance as it sheds light on how sandtray therapy can positively impact our clients' overall well-being and personal growth.

Self-esteem and self-worth are fundamental aspects of our identity and significantly influence how we perceive ourselves. Through the unique medium of sandtray therapy, clients can explore and express these dimensions in a non-verbal and experiential way, leading to profound insights and personal transformation.

Join us on the Sandtray Therapy Journey podcast, where we dive into captivating discussions, evidence-based research, and practical insights to enhance your understanding and practice of sandtray therapy. Whether you're a seasoned therapist or new to the field, this podcast is your guide to unlocking the transformative potential of sandtray therapy.

Subscribe now and join host Donna Mirus on this enlightening journey as we explore the power of sandtray therapy in transforming lives.


www.canadiansandtrayinstitute.ca

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2 years ago
9 minutes 32 seconds

The Sandtray Therapy Journey
Sandtray Miniatures Representation of Inner Worlds

Welcome to "The Sandtray Journey," the podcast dedicated to exploring the transformative power of sandtray therapy. Join your host, Donna Mirus, owner and provider of The Canadian Sandtray Institute, as she takes you on an enlightening exploration of sandtray therapy's profound impact on healing and growth.

In each episode, Donna, a credentialed sandtray therapist and expert in sandtray therapy, shares her expertise, insights, and practical strategies to educate mental health professionals on the therapeutic potential of sandtray therapy. From understanding the categories of sandtray miniatures and how therapists organize them, to exploring the therapist's role in holding space and processing with clients, and the significance of metaphors, each episode unravels the depth and richness of sandtray therapy.

In this episode, we dive into the fascinating realm of sandtray miniatures. Discover how these symbolic representations allow clients to explore their inner worlds, express complex emotions, and tap into their subconscious. We discuss various categories of miniatures, including human figures, animals, objects and structures, fantasy and mythological figures, abstract miniatures, and cultural and ethnic representations. Learn how therapists can organize these miniatures around themes to enhance the therapeutic experience.

As we journey further, we explore the essential role of the therapist in sandtray therapy. Discover the art of holding space, creating a safe and nonjudgmental environment for clients to explore and express themselves. We discuss the therapist's curiosity and skillful questioning, fostering deeper insights and self-reflection. You'll gain a deeper understanding of the processing phase, where the therapist collaboratively explores the client's sandtray scene, uncovering its significance, emotions, and connections between the miniatures.

Metaphors play a profound role in sandtray therapy, and we delve into their significance. Explore how metaphors provide clients with a symbolic language to express complex emotions and experiences beyond words. We discuss how metaphors facilitate integration, healing, and new perspectives, bridging the gap between the conscious and unconscious realms.

Lastly, we explore the practice of client-created miniature names. Learn how this simple yet powerful technique enhances personal ownership, self-reflection, and deepens the client's connection to their creation.

Whether you're an experienced therapist or just beginning your journey, "The Sandtray Journey" podcast is your guide to unlocking the transformative potential of sandtray therapy. Join Donna Mirus as she shares captivating discussions, practical insights, and empowering strategies to enhance your therapeutic practice.

Are you ready to embark on "The Sandtray Journey"? Tune in to each episode to expand your knowledge, refine your skills, and embrace the transformative power of sandtray therapy

www.canadiansandtrayinstitute.ca

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2 years ago
15 minutes 18 seconds

The Sandtray Therapy Journey
Let's Talk Sand: Why is Sand Needed for Sandtray Therapy?

Dive into the significance of sand in this episode of The Sandtray Therapy Journey podcast with host Donna Mirus. Learn about the brain's sensory connection with sand and alternative mediums in sandtray therapy. Uncover how to customize a therapeutic space and select the ideal sand for your practice. Whether you're a mental health professional or interested in the therapeutic benefits of sandtray therapy, this episode provides a wealth of insights and practical tips. Boost your sandtray therapy knowledge and practice with our comprehensive training at www.canadiansandtrayinstitute.com.

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2 years ago
7 minutes 31 seconds

The Sandtray Therapy Journey
Exploring the Neurobiology of Sandtray Therapy: How the Brain Responds

Episode Description:


Welcome to another episode of "The Sandtray Therapy Journey," the podcast where we explore the transformative world of sandtray therapy. In this episode, host Donna Mirus, owner and provider of The Canadian Sandtray Institute, takes us on a fascinating journey into the neurobiology of sandtray therapy and how it elicits responses in the brain. By understanding the intricate mechanisms of the brain and the power of sandtray therapy, we gain a deeper appreciation for its effectiveness in facilitating healing and growth.


Donna begins by discussing the concept of brain integration and its relevance to sandtray therapy. She explains how well-integrated brains contribute to emotional regulation, adaptive responses to stressors, and healthy relationships. Drawing from the research of trauma expert Dr. Bessel VanderKolk, Donna highlights the impact of traumatic experiences on brain integration and the role of sandtray therapy in restoring balance within neural networks.


Next, Donna explores the insights of renowned psychiatrist and neuroscientist Dr. Daniel Siegel. She explains the importance of bilateral and vertical integration within the brain and how sandtray therapy promotes both. Through the multisensory experience of creating sandtray worlds, clients engage both hemispheres of the brain, fostering creativity, intuition, and emotional expression. Simultaneously, sandtray therapy enables access to both lower and higher brain regions, allowing for the processing of emotions, memories, and conscious reflection.


Donna emphasizes that sandtray therapy bridges the gap between cognitive and emotional processes, promoting meaning-making and emotional regulation. It facilitates the integration of primal emotions and conscious reflection, leading to insight, new narratives, and neural connections that support healing and resilience. Understanding the neurobiology of sandtray therapy not only enhances the effectiveness of this modality but also empowers mental health professionals to communicate its rationale to clients, instilling hope, trust, and motivation.


Join Donna Mirus on "The Sandtray Therapy Journey" as she uncovers the transformative power of sandtray therapy through the lens of neurobiology. Each grain of sand holds the potential to transform lives, and this episode will leave you with a deeper appreciation for the therapeutic power of sandtray therapy.


This episode is brought to you by the Canadian Sandtray Institute, your go-to resource for all sandtray therapy training. Visit www.canadiansandtrayinstitute.ca to learn more and embark on your sandtray therapy journey.

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2 years ago
7 minutes 15 seconds

The Sandtray Therapy Journey
Sandtray Therapy is more than playing in the sand. Mental Health Professionals use this modality to treat all clients of all ages. Join me as we embark on this journey in discovering how sandtray therapy can bring healing and transformation not only for your clients and practice, but also for yourself.