Frequently Asked Questions

• What can representational sculpturing do that interviewing doesn’t do as well?
• What is the advantage in using representational sculpting instead of role-play or physical family sculpturing?
• What stands out as unique about the KST sculpture figures?
• How is this different from other available tools, such as therapy dolls, puppets, and drawing?
• How long does it take to use this process in a single session?
• What age range will figure placement work with?
• Does this technique work especially well with a certain kind of client?
• What is the theoretical basis for the sculpturing technique?
• Do you need special training to use representational sculpturing?
• What preparation should I pursue to begin to incorporate sculpturing into my practice?
• Do you take credit cards?
• What are the different purchasing options?
• If I place an order, how long before I receive it?

Q. What can representational sculpturing do that interviewing doesn’t do as well?
The process taps into the right brain, visual, intuitive and integrative aspect of mental processing, bringing out affective knowledge that may be a new awareness. The process appeals to multiple senses: visual, tactile, and kinesthetic. It draws out the strengths of the individual, and enhances a sense of competence. The client owns and shares their experience, first sculpting, and then describing what the construct means to them.

Q. What is the advantage in using representational sculpting instead of role-play or physical family sculpturing?
The technique is portable and flexible, working effectively in individual, couples, and group therapy. In using the figures, one’s family or network is “virtually present.” Representational sculpturing facilitates a family systems perspective even in individual therapy.

Q. What stands out as unique about the KST sculpture figures?
Using esthetically pleasing objects helps clients focus their energy into the sculpting process. The natural variation inherent in the hardwood grain means that each figure is unique. This quality encourages the person sculpting to incorporate these subtle differences in their creations. Recognizing the importance of identity and self-perception, we offer the KST Toolkit in a range of woods, from light (hard maple) to medium (cherry) to dark (black walnut).

Q. How is this different from other available tools, such as therapy dolls, puppets, and drawing?
Clients who are not comfortable with drawing pictures of themselves and their family are more at ease in picking up objects and moving them about to show who is in their life. Individuals who will not use toys or little plastic dolls respond to the aesthetic appeal of the hardwood figurines, and become engaged in sculpturing.

How long does it take to use this process in a single session?
In ten to fifteen minutes you can obtain significant assessment information of the client’s perception of the problems, his resources and relationships and the change he is longing for. Client sculpting in later sessions may bring forth additional reflections and insights.

Q. What age range will figure placement work with?
Therapists use the KST with children as young as preschool, with older children and adolescents, and with adults of all ages.

Q. Does this technique work especially well with a certain kind of client?
The KST works especially well with clients for whom language may be difficult, including young children, those with cognitive or speech impairments, and clients who don’t like to talk. It is also an extremely effective technique to use with those who tend to intellectualize and over-explain: sculpting taps into right brain thinking.

Q. What is the theoretical basis for the sculpture technique? The Kvebæk Sculpturing has both psychoanalytic and family systems roots, yet fits “hand in glove” with narrative styles. It can be incorporated into any therapy model, from short term, solution-focused, to in-depth Jungian therapy.

Q. Do you need special training to use representational sculpturing? Whatever discipline you trained in to become a licensed social worker, mental health practitioner, or human resources specialist may have equipped you with the foundation for competent practice within the limits of your license. To effectively integrate the sculpturing technique into what you are already doing, study the manual that comes with a KST Toolkit, then try out the process for yourself, alone or with a trusted colleague, applying the principles and techniques to your own family of origin or a case you have in mind. Remember that you are observing, and inviting your client to talk about their presentation, you are not interpreting. When you feel comfortable with the technique, bring it into your work with clients. (See next Q/A also.)

Q. What preparation should I pursue to begin to incorporate sculpturing into my practice?
To effectively integrate the sculpturing technique into what you are already doing, study the manual that comes with each KST Toolkit, then try out the process for yourself, alone or with a trusted colleague, applying the principles and techniques to your own family of origin or a case you have in mind. The guidebook contains clear 1-2-3 steps on getting started. You may also choose to order a training DVD or request a representational sculpture seminar for additional background and practice.

Q. Do you take credit cards?
Yes, we take Visa and MasterCard. You may also purchase online with a PayPal account.

Q. What are the different purchasing options?
In addition to the online convenience offered through credit card and Pay Pal, you may contact us to discuss other options such as company Purchase Order or cashier’s check. We will follow-up with a telephone call or email to discuss your unique needs.

Q. If I place an order, how long before I receive it?
We generally ship within two weeks of receiving a prepaid order. Please remember to include payment for the desired form of shipping.