Humanistic Sandtray Therapy (HST) is a therapeutic approach that combines elements of humanistic theory, particularly a synthesis of person-centered and Gestalt psychotherapy, and sandtray therapy. Originally developed by Dr. Steve Armstrong, it is a creative and experiential form of therapy that allows individuals to express and explore their here-and-now experiencing through the use of a tray of sand and miniature figures.
In HST, we focus on the individual’s self-awareness, personal growth, and self-actualization. We emphasize the importance of the person’s subjective experience, their unique perspective, and their capacity for personal development and fulfillment.
Sandtray therapy involves creating scenes or landscapes in a tray of sand using miniature objects. This process can provide a symbolic representation of an individual’s inner world, conflicts, emotions, and relationships. The therapist may encourage clients to manipulate the sand and objects as a way to externalize and explore their experiences in a non-verbal and tactile manner.
HST combines these principles by providing a safe and creative space for individuals to engage in self-expression, self-awareness, and self-discovery. Clients are encouraged to interact with the sand and objects freely, without judgment, and to create scenes that resonate with their emotions and experiences. The therapist takes on a supportive and empathetic role, facilitating the exploration of the client’s creations and helping them uncover patterns and themes that help them increase their immediate awareness.
HST can be a powerful therapeutic tool for individuals seeking to connect with their inner selves, process emotions, and gain deeper awareness, leading to personal growth and development. It aligns well with the humanistic philosophy of valuing and respecting the individual’s unique journey towards self-fulfillment.
About Ryan
I’m a humanistic psychotherapist, associate professor at a University, and a self-identified nerd (sometimes bordering on dork at times). I first learned about sandtray therapy as a graduate student while working on my master’s of professional counseling degree at Texas State University when I took a sandtray class with Dr. Linda Homeyer. At the time, I had no idea that Dr. Homeyer was a globally known expert in sandtray therapy. She was the first (but not the last) professor I had who used her own book for the class!
A few years later, I had the honor of training under Dr. Steve Armstrong, who was my clinical supervisor and had developed the Humanistic Sandtray Therapy (HST) method. I became a Certified Humanistic Sandtray Therapist (CHST) and eventually became a co-trainer and supervisor under this method. Dr. Armstrong and I continually redeveloped and expanded the philosophy and approach driving HST. Unfortunately, his sudden death in 2022 lead me on a path of soul searching and grief work and with the blessing of his wife, I decided to carry on with training others in HST.
Training clinicians in HST and serving clients at my private practice in Fort Worth, TX, are my most professionally fulfilling experiences. I am honored to carry on Steve’s work and continue to expand the philosophical underpinnings and practice of this model. My hope is that practitioners and their clients are able to experience the therapeutic power of Humanistic Sandtray Therapy.
