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HARPER THERAPY GROUP | FAIRFAX VIRGINIA THERAPY AND COUNSELING
  • Home
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    • Heather Harper, LCSW
    • Dezireh Jamshidarsani, LCSW
    • Daniel Pereira, MSW
    • Irene Han, MSW
    • Phoebe DeVito MSW
    • MSW Interns
    • Sharing Our Space
  • Services & Fees
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    • EMDR
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Sand Tray

What Is Sand Tray Therapy?
Sand Tray Therapy is a creative, experiential therapeutic modality that uses a tray of sand and a collection of miniatures (small figurines, objects, and symbols) to help clients express thoughts, feelings, and experiences that may be difficult to articulate verbally. Clients create scenes or landscapes in the sand that represent their inner world, relationships, challenges, or goals.

This non-verbal, hands-on approach allows clients to access deeper layers of awareness, process emotions safely, and gain new perspectives on their experiences. Sand Tray is grounded in principles from psychodrama, Gestalt therapy, and Jungian psychology.

Who Provides Sand Tray Therapy at Our Practice?
Sand Tray Therapy is offered by Irene Han, Dezireh Jamshidarsani and Heather Harper who are all trained in this expressive modality. They integrate Sand Tray into individual therapy sessions for clients who would benefit from this creative, experiential approach.

Is Sand Tray Part of Standard Therapy Sessions?
Sand Tray is available as a specialized add-on service to standard individual therapy. Because Sand Tray requires specialized materials, training, and a creative therapeutic environment, it is offered with an add-on fee.

Add-On Fee: $10 per session

This fee supports the specialized materials, training, and care required for Sand Tray treatment. Sessions typically run 60 minutes depending on client needs.
If you're curious whether Sand Tray is right for you, we offer a complimentary consultation to discuss your goals and determine if this modality aligns with your healing journey.

Who Might Benefit from Sand Tray Therapy?
Sand Tray can be especially helpful for individuals experiencing:
  • Difficulty expressing emotions verbally
  • Trauma or distressing memories
  • Anxiety, depression, or emotional overwhelm
  • Childhood experiences or family dynamics
  • Self-exploration and personal growth goals
  • Creative or expressive needs
  • Work with children, adolescents, or adults who benefit from non-verbal modalities

Sand Tray is versatile and adaptable—it works well for clients of all ages, including children who may struggle with traditional talk therapy.

What to Expect During a Sand Tray Session
  1. Introduction: The therapist will explain the Sand Tray process and invite you to explore the miniatures.
  2. Selection: You'll choose miniatures that resonate with you or represent your current experience.
  3. Creation: You'll arrange your miniatures in the sand tray to create a scene, landscape, or symbol.
  4. Exploration: Your therapist will guide you in reflecting on what the scene represents and what insights emerge.
  5. Integration: You'll discuss how the experience connects to your therapy goals and daily life.
  6. Closure: The session ends with reflection and grounding to ensure you feel comfortable before leaving.

Sand Tray is a collaborative, non-judgmental process. There's no "right" way to create your scene—your unique expression is what matters.

Is Sand Tray Safe?
Yes. Sand Tray is a safe, gentle approach when provided by a trained clinician. Irene Han and Dezireh Jamshidarsani ensure that all clients feel supported and empowered throughout the Sand Tray process.

Next Steps
​If you're interested in exploring Sand Tray as part of your therapy journey:
  1. Schedule a consultation with Irene Han or Dezireh Jamshidarsani to discuss your goals and Sand Tray readiness
  2. Begin standard individual therapy if you're not already working with either clinician
  3. Add Sand Tray to your sessions once you and your therapist determine it's appropriate

Your path to healing begins with understanding what works best for you. Sand Tray can be a powerful tool for those who benefit from creative, experiential expression.
​
Contact Us Today to schedule your consultation or ask questions about Sand Tray add-on fees.
3545 Chain Bridge Road
Suite 201
​Fairfax, VA 22030

​[email protected]
Main Office: (703) 865-5450
​
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​Heather Harper, LCSW
Dezireh Jamshidarsani, LCSW
Daniel Pereira, MSW
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If you are in a life threatening situation or in need of immediate assistance, these emergency resources can help.
  • Home
  • What's New?
  • About
    • Heather Harper, LCSW
    • Dezireh Jamshidarsani, LCSW
    • Daniel Pereira, MSW
    • Irene Han, MSW
    • Phoebe DeVito MSW
    • MSW Interns
    • Sharing Our Space
  • Services & Fees
    • Individual Therapy
    • EMDR
    • Sand Tray
    • Couples Therapy
    • Group Therapy >
      • Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
      • Navigating Change
    • Fees & Insurance >
      • Get started
      • Fees & Insurance
  • For professionals
    • Internships/Field Practicum
    • LCSW Supervision
    • Work with us
    • Rent a space
  • Resources
  • Patient portal
  • PRIDE MONTH!
    • Mindful Musings
    • LGBTQIA+ Blog
    • Resources