ways we can work together

If you have found traditional talk-therapy does not work for you, or if you are looking for something more expressive and somatic (what we feel physically in our bodies), Sage offers a range of evidence based expressive therapies. This can be particularly beneficial for those who find it challenging to articulate their emotions verbally or who are drawn to creative, tactile processes.

By using creative expressive therapies, a visual representation of your inner world can be created, providing a non-verbal, symbolic way for individuals to explore and express their thoughts, feelings, and experiences in a safe space.

Sandplay therapy, symbol work and creative arts therapies have a number of elements which may be attractive:

  • Safe, protected space to explore difficult feelings or experiences.

  • Helps re-connect to strengths, improves self-confidence and supports the development of resilience.

  • Can facilitate transpersonal connection and growth.

  • Assists with emotional regulation

  • Non interpretive - you know what your symbols & creations mean.

  • Safe for working with trauma.

  • Helps with creativity, inner connection and a deeper understanding of the self.

  • You do not have to speak.

  • You do not have to share anything about your creation.

  • You do not have to be ‘good’ at art, it is the process, not the product.

  • Non diagnostic.

  • Shown to be effective across all ages.

Below are some examples of how others have engaged in sandplay, symbol-work and expressive therapies. All images shown with permission to do so.

Ultimately, the choice between sandplay therapy and conventional talk therapy depends on the individual's preferences and therapeutic needs. Andrea is also trained in traditional talk-therapy frameworks and utilises these during sessions when appropriate.

Honouring the individuality of each person is a core basis for how Andrea works and vital for the development of an effective counselling relationship, connection being a key element of therapy. Working in a way that best suits you, on the things that you want to work on, make for a client-led, feedback-informed therapy session. Sage is a non-diagnostic, trauma-informed practice, providing a safe and protected space for clients to explore a range of issues.

“The shoe that fits one person pinches another; there is no recipe for living that suits all cases. ”
— C.G. Jung

  • "Andrea creates a safe place where I feel I can express myself fully! The environment is warm and comfortable. Using sand and symbols in therapy has been particularly effective for me and I always look forward to my sessions.”

    TB (f, 23yrs)

  • "Working with Andrea in the sand has given me a new understanding of myself and I have noticed a change in my day to day life from our sessions. I have benefitted greatly from our sessions."

    CL (f, 22yrs)

  • "My daughter has been seeing Andrea for a year now and has supported my daughter through a very difficult time in her life. I have noticed a big difference in my daughter's ability to regulate her emotions as a result of her time with Andrea. My daughter says that she feels very safe with Andrea and she has helped her to explore all her feelings and difficulties. Andrea is very child centred and is able to connect brilliantly with children and young people."

    (Mother on behalf of daughter, 12 yrs)

  • "Andrea has assisted me tremendously over the last few years with my own personal journey. Through the combination of symbols and sand techniques my own ideals were challenged and my expectations were exceeded, resulting in some monumentally positive progress. I can’t thank Andrea enough and I HIGHLY recommend her and Sage Counselling."

    SS (m, 28yrs)

  • " Andrea has provided a space where I feel truly heard, understood, and supported in a way I had never experienced before. It's been amazing how sandplay has helped me express my complicated feelings and thoughts that I found hard to put into words. It has facilitated a deep connection with my inner self in a way that is both profound and meaningful."

    TC (f, 41yrs)

  • "Andrea offers a warm and wholesome therapy experience, her relational approach creates a gentle and open space to work through thoughts, ideas and emotions. Sand and symbols add the extra dimension that support the ongoing healing process beyond words. A brilliant, experienced therapist who guides you through the complexities of life".

    T (f. 36yrs)