The fast-paced world we live in today presents unique challenges that make reconnecting with the unconscious an increasingly difficult endeavor. Modern life is driven by deadlines, instant gratification, and constant technological engagement, leaving little time for reconnecting. introspection or meaningful connection with ourselves and others. Even the spaces once dedicated to self-discovery, like therapy sessions, are often constrained by time, reducing opportunities for deep exploration.

In the past, slower rhythms of life allowed us to listen to our inner voice and nurture relationships with our spouses, children, and communities. Today, the demands of work, social expectations, and an unrelenting schedule have multiplied a thousandfold, compelling us to outsource support when faced with struggles. Turning to therapists and mental health professionals has become a necessity, yet this also reflects how disconnected we have become from our own capacity to hold space for others and ourselves.

For therapists, this reality brings added layers of complexity. As human beings, therapists are not immune to the pressures of modern life or the personal struggles that accompany them. Balancing the demands of their own lives with the responsibility of guiding others through healing requires a delicate equilibrium. Without addressing their own wounds, therapists risk viewing their clients’ journeys through the lens of unresolved pain, potentially hindering the therapeutic process. It is therefore vital for therapists to build trusting relationships with peers, supervisors, and mentors who can support them in processing and reconnecting. This ensures they can approach their clients with clarity, compassion, and neutrality. The reconnecting and healing process, particularly when addressing trauma, demands that therapists remain present and open, rather than allowing their preconceived ideas to direct the client’s exploration of the unconscious.

This challenge is especially pronounced when working with trauma stored deep within the unconscious, where the body and brain have hidden away profound fear or pain. This is what led me to explore Sandplay Therapy, a modality uniquely suited for this delicate work. Unlike approaches that rely on the therapist’s guidance to uncover and process trauma, Sandplay allows the client—be it a child, adult, or fellow professional therapist—to engage directly with their inner world. The therapist’s role is to create a safe, ethical, and supportive environment while remaining present and attuned to the process. Through this method, I discovered the power of stepping back to let the sand and symbols speak, allowing healing to unfold organically, free from the therapist’s interpretations or biases. This non-directive approach honors the client’s autonomy and ensures that their journey is led by their unconscious wisdom, not by the therapist’s agenda.

If you’re a parent, partner, husband, or wife in need of therapy, feel free to reach out to me at Celia@sandplay.co.za—let’s discuss options that can help you. If you’re a Mental Health Professional, you’re welcome to email me at training@sandplay.co.za, and I’ll send you details about my training program starting on March 5th. Together, let’s face the things we often keep hidden and start making meaningful changes.