Forms of Expression of a Preverbal Reality in Child Psychotherapy

Preverbal contents need special attention in the therapeutic process, due to their difficult accessibility and the tendency to be actuated in the therapeutic relationship. The author describes how essential steps in intrauterine development are linked to the symbolic representation of the mother-child unit and emphasizes the importance of body-related experiences in curing preverbal traumas. Sand scenes that can be metaphors for the body allow a first expression, at the symbolic level, of these unthinkable contents. The therapist must mirror and contain these messages in order to open new paths of understanding and integration. Several examples drawn from Sandplay©therapy with children who have suffered very early childhood trauma illustrate the importance of the therapist’s familiarity with preverbal issues.