Home
How we work
Creative and expressive approaches

Creative and expressive approaches

Art-based, sandtray and other expressive techniques within counseling, for people of any age or artistic ability.

Schedule an appointment Therapists who use it

5 of our 62 therapists use this approach.

Some things are easier to draw, build or arrange than to say. Several of our counselors use art-based and sandtray techniques within therapy to give you another language: an image, a tray of sand and miniatures, a collage, a piece of clay. The counselor isn't judging the art; they're paying attention to what you made, how you made it and what it brings up, and using that to move the work forward.

You don't need any artistic ability. Children take to it naturally; many adults are surprised by how much comes out when the pressure to find words is lifted.

Please bring your own art supplies to sessions. Paint isn't allowed in carpeted areas.

What we use it for

Is it a fit?

For children and teens, and for adults who process visually or who find talking about certain things impossible. Especially useful for trauma, grief and emotions that have no words yet.

What the evidence says

Art-based and sandtray techniques have research support for trauma, anxiety and emotional expression in children and adults, and are widely used within child and trauma counseling. At Oceanic® they are techniques used by licensed counselors and social workers as part of therapy, not a separate service.

Common questions

Do I have to be good at art?

No. The art is a way of expressing and exploring, not a product. Stick figures work fine.

Is this only for kids?

No. Children take to it most readily, but adults use art-based and sandtray techniques for trauma, grief and anything that's hard to put into words.

Where to find it

Based on our clinicians' current specialties, this approach is offered at five locations:

Closer to Myrtle Beach, Surfside Beach, Murrells Inlet, North Charleston, West Columbia or online? Call (843) 894-0000; the right therapist may be available by video, or we'll suggest the nearest office with the right fit.

Ready when you are.

Call us or submit a short intake form. A Patient Account Representative will match you with a therapist, and most new clients have their first appointment within a few business days.

Schedule an appointment Call (843) 894-0000