Overview

The Association for Sandplay Therapy, Inc., was established on January 12, 2015, as an international professional society organized as a non-profit corporation under the laws of the State of Wyoming. Our mission is to uphold the highest standards of training and practice in Sandplay Therapy among mental health clinicians worldwide. The association also certifies Sandplay training programs and teaching materials used by our members in Sandplay education.

Founding Principles

The Association is grounded in the foundational principles of Sandplay Therapy as taught by Dora Kalff of Switzerland. These principles emphasize clarity of mind, heart, and action in the therapeutic process, recognizing the profound responsibility and honor inherent in practicing Sandplay. To embody these qualities, our members commit to living with personal and communal integrity, kindness, loving compassion, humility, transparency, and playfulness. These values form the ethical and operational foundation of the association.

Mission

We are dedicated to promoting Sandplay education and training for mental health clinicians and to supporting the ongoing professional and personal development of our registrants.

Professional Registration

As a professional society, the association grants registration to clinicians who have completed sufficient training to practice Sandplay Therapy independently within their clinical settings. Registered Sandplay Therapists (STR) operate autonomously and are not agents of the Association. The association does not assume responsibility for any outcomes or liabilities arising from members’ professional practices.

Membership Categories

Our membership comprises mental health clinicians from around the world who support the association’s values and mission. The term “member” is used generically to describe affiliated therapists and does not imply ownership or shareholder status. Membership classes include:

Member Association for Sandplay Therapy (MAST)

This general membership is open to mental health clinicians who support the association’s guiding principles and are studying or interested in Sandplay Therapy. MAST members are welcome to attend association events and receive newsletters and related publications.

Registered Sandplay Therapist (STR)

STR membership is awarded to MAST members who meet the association’s registration requirements. STR members may use the designation “Registered Sandplay Therapist (STR)” in professional contexts, including publications and promotional materials. They are entitled to advertise their membership and may provide Sandplay therapy to MAST members pursuing registration.

Registered Sandplay Therapist–Consultant (STR-C)

This designation is granted to clinicians who demonstrate advanced training, experience, and readiness to supervise other Sandplay therapists. STR-C members may use the title “Registered Sandplay Therapist-Consultant (STR-C)” and provide clinical supervision within the sandplay community.

Registered Sandplay Therapist–Consultant Teacher (STR-CT)

To qualify as an STR-CT, candidates must have held STR-C status for at least three years and meet additional criteria outlined in the Association’s requirements. STR-CT members deliver trainings based on the association-approved core curriculum and may use the designation “Registered Sandplay Therapist-Consultant Teacher (STR-CT).”

Membership Details

Membership renews annually on the anniversary of registration. Renewal invoices are automatically sent two weeks prior to the due date. Annual dues are as follows:

  • $100 for STR, STR-C, and STR-CT members

  • $75 for MAST members

Governance: Council of Mentors

The association is governed by a board of directors, known as the Council of Mentors, appointed in accordance with applicable laws. The council oversees the business and management of the association and serves as a guiding body of wisdom and support.

Decisions are made by consensus whenever possible. If consensus cannot be reached, the president holds the deciding vote. The council has full authority to manage all aspects of the association, including business operations, personnel, amendments to the charter, dissolution of the corporation, and membership oversight, all in compliance with Wyoming law.