The method of integral shaping with clay is explained in its fundamental aspects and exemplified through design processes from art therapy practice. The author understands design processes as transformation processes, which she illustrates with examples related to life themes and situations. Important impulses come from the work of cultural philosopher Jean Gebser; the development, manifestation, and effectiveness of the consciousness structures that constitute us as humans, as outlined by Gebser, are reflected in a striking way in creative expression and can be observed both in their potential and in crises and psychological disorders. Content includes: - Clay as a working and effective material - Hands as tools - The method of integral shaping with clay - Design paths and transformation processes - Self and life design. The development of the method is based on this.