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• Play is done for its own sake- it may even seem purposeless. For clients who feel out of control (all clients?), a non-demanding  experience is a welcome change and a chance to regain control.

• Play is voluntary. Even for the mandated client, the experience is invitational and promotes freedom.

• Play has an inherent attraction. There is a magnetic quality to activities that promote freedom and growth. 

• Play involves a freedom from time. For therapy clients, slavery to time can be magnified. Play and sandtray therapy offers a respite from the captivity of pain and chaos.

• Play helps diminish the consciousness of self. All clients have a degree of self-consciousness that limits their growth. A play/sandtray experience takes the focus off of this negative self-talk and promotes positive self-awareness.

• Play has an improvisational potential.

• Play develops a continuation desire. In a world of work- therapy is certainly work-an activity that promotes a desire to reengage is powerful.