From sandtray to strength: Exploring school counselors unlocking emotional transformation in B40 children in Malaysia

This study aims to explore the experiences of school counselors, known as Guru Bimbingan dan Kaunseling Sekolah Menengah (GBKSM), in facilitating positive changes among B40 children through sandtray therapy (STT). The B40 group represents households with a monthly income of less than RM5,250. Guided by Adler’s Individual Psychology theory, this qualitative case study investigates how GBKSM utilizes STT as a creative counseling intervention to support the emotional, behavioral, and cognitive development of marginalized school children. The study involved nine B40 children from several secondary schools referred for counseling services by the school. Data were gathered from five school counselors formally trained in sandtray therapy, who conducted 52 counseling sessions in total. Multiple qualitative data collection methods were employed, including semi-structured interviews, direct observations, counselors’ STT session notes, photographs of completed sandtrays, video recordings of counseling sessions, and client progress reports. Thematic analysis of the data uncovered four key themes that reflect the experiences of GBKSM when implementing sandtray therapy with B40 children: (1) building meaningful and trusting therapeutic relationships with participants, (2) supporting the emotional development and self-expression of participants, (3) guiding positive behavioral changes through creative and symbolic play, and (4) enhancing participants’ cognitive growth and problem-solving abilities. The findings underscore the vital role of school counselors in adopting innovative and expressive therapeutic techniques such as STT within the school environment. Furthermore, this study highlights the challenges and significant outcomes encountered by GBKSM when integrating STT into their counseling practice. The use of sandtray therapy benefits the psychological well-being and personal development of B40 children and enriches the professional growth of school counselors. This study recommends broader implementation and further research on STT’s effectiveness across diverse student populations.