ABSTRACT
This chapter invites therapists to engage with child clients regarding the natural world within the sheltered container of our offices—employing fairy tale themes in storytelling and Sandplay about The Great Forest and some of its inhabitants. Therapists are encouraged to view the creation of sandtrays through a nature play therapy lens. Clinicians may observe how the client’s incorporation of objects found in nature (e.g., plants, flowers, trees, feathers, stones, crystals, and leaves) can be represented as either the actual object itself or symbolically. The natural grounding material of the sand itself, with or without the addition of water, can become an indoor extension of the natural world as well. Additionally, therapists can explore how client stories feature deep connection to and rootedness in the natural world. This chapter will incorporate pertinent storytelling and Sandplay case examples that explore the strength and vitality of nature inside the playroom.
