STA Tips for SAFE PRACTICE in Relation to COVID-19

We understand that as many sandplay therapists re-open their offices to see clients in person, many questions may arise about how to do this as safely as possible. There are excellent guidelines for counselors offered by the American Psychological Association: APA guidelines.

With the health and safety of you and your clients in mind, we offer the following additional tips specific to sandplay therapists; use if appropriate for your office setting to reduce the risk of infection.

For you and your clients:

1. Thorough 20-second hand washing and the use of paper towels before and after sessions. Hand sanitizer may be used as an alternative.
2. Masks should be worn and physical distancing provided within the office space (at least 6 ft. apart) in waiting areas.
3. Disinfect surfaces, doorknobs, etc. regularly. In session and between-session cleanliness protocols may include: Chemist-grade surface spray on surfaces such as doorknobs, work surfaces and on all bathroom surfaces.
4. There are several options that you may want to consider regarding sanitizing the sand: spraying with disinfectant, use of ultraviolet light (sunlight or artificial UV that can be purchased) which may break down the virus, and baking the sand at 250-300 degrees F for 30-45 minutes after use to sanitize. For periodic deep cleans, here is a video about washing the sand. Current CDC guidelines about workspace surfaces are here.
5. Wipe down the trays with disinfectant between uses. If possible, consider providing each client with her/his own tray.
6. Consider meeting outside if this is feasible in your office setting to provide better air circulation.
7. Figurines and art utensils should be washed thoroughly with hot soapy water after each use and allowed to dry in the sun if possible. Keep personalized materials in zip lock bags. Disinfectant could be used but may degrade finish on your figures. You may wish to consider removing cloth figures which cannot be washed or disinfected. Again, consult CDC guidelines regarding surfaces.
8. Tissues and wipes should be provided in session.
9. It might be a good idea to keep track of all visits in the event that contact tracing is used at a later date.
10. Many therapists keep all artwork created in session, however it may be best to send artworks home once they are photographed for your records, as an additional safety measure.

NOTE THAT THESE ARE SUGGESTIONS AND TIPS ONLY! Please continue to inform yourselves of local restrictions and recommendations from government authorities and consult the CDC website for up to date virus information.