People yearn for a place to express themselves; however, many have problems opening up. Also, some do not have the verbal skills to communicate effectively --especially when expressing emotions. The Sandtray Experience allows participants to express themselves non-verbally by placing miniature objects into the sandtray in any configuration that feels right. They are encouraged to create a meaningful experience, goal, dream, wish, etc. They can dig into the sand's depths or build up to its heights. There is no right or wrong way to play.

The meaning of the play emerges as the participant experiences and shares it with the teacher and others in the group. The outcome is often a feeling of rightness and truth and of truly being heard. Play is their language and the miniatures are their words. Just as an empty canvas provides a place for artistic expression, so the sandtray provides a place for pleasant imaginings to become so concrete they are perceived as real.