The Implementation of Sand Tray Therapy in Managing Mood Disorders among Adolescents in Primary Care: A Case Report

Depression and anxiety are common mental health disorders that can affect individuals across all age groups, including adolescents. These conditions can profoundly influence multiple dimensions of their lives. This case report aims to highlight the effectiveness of sand tray therapy (STT) as a counselling treatment modality for managing mood disorders among adolescents within primary care settings. This case report illustrated a 14-year-old girl who presented with a year-long history of depression and anxiety exacerbated by parental separation, school challenges, and psychosocial stressors. Diagnosed with generalised anxiety disorder and major depressive disorder, she received sertraline, psychoeducation and STT, alongside family psychotherapy sessions. Through her STT, she managed to share her innermost worries and find a way to overcome the emotions. Towards the end of the sessions, she showed significant improvement and she started reconnecting with her hobbies, enjoying school and building a stronger family relationship. The case highlights the value of a multimodal therapeutic approach in counselling, and particularly STT for adolescents with mood disorders. Early intervention can prevent severe long-term complications and support healthier adolescent developmental outcomes.