An Exploratory Inquiry of Sandtray Group Experiences With Adolescent Females in an Alternative School

Abstract

A sandtray group experience is a creative intervention that counselors may want to incorporate into their work with adolescents. This qualitative inquiry explored the experiences of adolescent females who participated in a sandtray group while attending an alternative school. The researchers identified five themes that emerged from the data: (a) self-expression, (b) development of insight, (c) growth opportunities, (d) hope, and (e) group dynamics. Implications for group workers and recommendations for future research are discussed.

Keywords:

• adolescent
• counseling
• female
• group
• sandtray

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Jacqueline M. Swank

Jacqueline M. Swank, Ph.D., is an assistant professor and Emi A. Lenes, M.Ed., a doctoral student in the School of Human Development and Organizational Studies in Education at the University of Florida.