Sandplay & Symbol Work

Who's who in the zoo?...

Your Therapist 

Danni's been working with young people, in a range of capacities for 20 years. She has a warm and welcoming personality, naturally inviting connection and support. Having worked as a teacher and leader in primary and high school settings, an adventure-based learning instructor, a youth worker and mentor, Danni brings a wealth of experience and knowledge. She has always taken a holistic, experiential approach, which has been challenging when working in so-called mainstream environments. But with a passion for supporting young people in their growth, Danni's approach is always person-centred, comfortable in the unknown that is someone else's journey.  Working with the whole person, not the diagnosis, has been Danni's passion for many years, and whilst she is supportive of behavioural or cognitive-centric counselling approaches, the Jungian theory of transpersonal change through exploration of the psyche really resonated with her instinctive practice. 

What is it?...

Sandplay & Symbol Work

Sandplay and Symbol Work recognise that healing and personal growth often occur through imagination, metaphor, and creative expression (Pearson & Wilson, 2001). Using a tray of sand and a collection of miniature figures, clients create scenes that reflect their inner world. Through symbols, stories, and imagery, experiences, emotions, strengths, and challenges can be explored in a safe and supportive environment. This process allows individuals to communicate beyond language, making it particularly valuable for children and for those who have experienced stress, anxiety, grief, trauma, or significant life changes.

 Rather than focusing solely on talking about problems, these approaches help individuals access their own inner resources, develop self-awareness, and discover new ways of understanding themselves and their experiences.

At Calma Llama, Sandplay and Symbol Work are integrated with a child-centred, strengths-based approach that honours each person's unique story. Sessions provide a calm, accepting space where clients can explore emotions, build resilience, strengthen relationships, and develop greater confidence and wellbeing.

Express yourself...

How expressive therapy works

Expressive therapies allow us to explore experiences at our own pace, without pressure to talk about difficult situations before we are ready. The use of symbols and metaphor can help uncover strengths, process emotions, gain new perspectives, and create opportunities for healing and growth.

Specifically, this style of therapy can help with:

• Anxiety, worry, and stress

• Emotional regulation and managing big feelings

• Building self-esteem and confidence

• Friendship and social challenges

• School attendance and engagement difficulties

• Family changes, separation, and loss

• Grief and bereavement

• Trauma and adverse life experiences

• Behavioural concerns

• Identity and self-discovery

• Developing resilience and coping skills