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Now retired from my private practice in Sacramento, California,
I am currently focusing on sand tray/sandplay education, teaching, and writing in Ashland, Oregon. I provide individual and small group
consultation and training on the use of sand tray/sandplay techniques. As my resume indicates, I have extensive teaching experience and
have published articles on the use of sand tray/sandplay techniques and other topics.
I entered the social work field as a paraprofessional. In 1973 I met Betty Russell, LCSW, BCD, and she has generously
mentored me for many years. My M.S.W. degree was awarded in 1977, and my California license in 1979.
My foundational social work training emphasized ego psychology and early child development. I have been trained on
a theoretical foundation of object relations, in a relationally based treatment approach. This approach has been the foundation
for my sand tray/sandplay studies, my clinical practice, and my trainings and workshops.
My first introduction to the sand tray technique was by a Jungian analyst in the 1970's. As a young social worker
I became attracted to and intrigued by such a unique approach to treating the abused children I was working with. I began
studying its use immediately. It was only later that I learned about Margaret Lowenfeld, the initiator of this sand tray
apparatus. I remain fascinated by the educational, medical, and psychotherapeutic uses of sand tray/sandplay to improve people's lives.
My sand tray training advanced significantly in 1989 when I began study with Gisela De Domenico, Ph.D.
I completed her experiential and clinical trainings and advanced to her teacher training. Eventually
I became a trainer for her "Level 1 and 2" courses (old versions). As my own teaching progressed, I
began to find innovative ways to respond to workshop participants' questions--ways that went beyond
the structure approved by Dr. De Domenico. A natural outcome of my continued teaching was to develop
my own way of instruction and use of sand tray/ sandplay. I am deeply grateful to her and to the
many colleagues and workshop participants who helped me develop these methods.
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