TEEN & SANDTRAY THERAPY · GRAND JUNCTION
When talking feels hard, there’s another way.
Your teen may be overwhelmed, anxious, or carrying something they don’t know how to explain. Therapy can make room for more than conversation—with sandtray, metaphor, movement, and creative expression.
A different way to be understood
Sandtray uses a tray of sand and miniature figures to explore emotions, experiences, relationships, and personal meaning. There is no artistic skill required, no “right” scene to build, and no pressure to explain everything at once.
KJ follows the teen’s own meaning rather than assigning a hidden interpretation to every object. Sandtray may be combined with conversation and practical skills, depending on the teen’s goals and comfort.
Support for the complicated parts of growing up
Anxiety, stress, and emotional overwhelm
Identity, self-understanding, and confidence
Friendship challenges and family conflict
Trauma-related concerns, grief, and transitions
Difficulty expressing feelings or connecting through talk therapy
What sessions can look like
We begin by getting to know your teen and what matters to them. Sessions can include sandtray, expressive materials, conversation, or noticing body cues and practicing regulation. The approach changes with the person—not the other way around.
For parents and caregivers
Caregiver involvement is discussed in light of age, clinical needs, consent requirements, and treatment goals. KJ works to support helpful collaboration while respecting the privacy and trust teens need. Sandtray is one option, and fit is considered individually.
Questions parents often ask
Is sandtray only for young children?
No. Teens and adults can use symbols, metaphor, and visual expression to explore difficult experiences.
Does my teen have to talk about everything?
No. We can begin with building comfort, discussing current concerns, and finding ways of communicating that feel workable.
Read: When talking isn’t enough →
Start with a conversation
In-person appointments in Grand Junction and online appointments may be available. We’ll discuss fit, availability, payment, and the practice coordinating your care during consultation.
Explore all specialties · Meet KJ
About our practice relationship
Raven Counseling is an independently operated counseling business owned by Karter “KJ” Leuallen. Raven Counseling and Illuminate Play Therapy & Counseling are separate businesses. Illuminate contracts with Raven Counseling for KJ’s professional counseling services. Raven Counseling is not owned by Illuminate.
Depending on how services are arranged, appointments, administrative systems, billing, or insurance arrangements may be coordinated through Illuminate. Before treatment begins, clients will be informed of the applicable practice, billing provider, consent requirements, and privacy practices.