Amatruda, Kate. Glimpsing Sacred Mountain: A Brief Sandplay Process of a Boy with Cancer

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Amatruda, Kate. Glimpsing Sacred Mountain: A Brief Sandplay Process of a Boy with Cancer

Volume 7, Number 2, 1998 (Volume VII, Number 2,1998)

KEY WORDS: child, cancer, sandplay therapy, clinical example, boy, psychobiological, field, lymphoma, chemotherapy, pediatric oncology, 1985, research, Pacific Medical Center, San Francisco, ego, Self.

ABSTRACT: This brief sandplay process is that of a seven-year old boy with Cancer. Although a powerful tool, the author cautions it’s use with those diagnosed as borderlines or those who have had a psychotic break, due to weak ego to hold the unconscious material. Also, it is not appropriate for those active in drug or alcohol abuse. This case describes the work of research at the Pacific Medical Center in San Francisco, therefore, the child met with Kate Amatruda in the hospital. Greenery, horses, waterholes, the tiger and camel, are significant in this process, but the use of fire allowed the child a feeling of mastery in circumstances where he had little control. He also found the jumping mouse that found the sacred mountain. In later contact with the family, the author found that this child reached adulthood in good health.

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