Welcome to The Association for Sandplay Therapy (AST)
A professional home for depth-oriented clinicians around the world
The Association for Sandplay Therapy (AST) is an international nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting mental health professionals who practice Sandplay Therapy in the Jungian tradition of Dora Kalff. Whether you are just beginning your journey or are already an experienced clinician, AST offers a clear path to professional recognition, advanced training, and meaningful community.
Why Join AST?
Professional Recognition
Becoming a registered member through AST affirms your commitment to ethical, in-depth practice. Our registration levels—STR, STR-C, and STR-CT—are respected worldwide and reflect a clinician’s depth of training and supervision.
Structured Certification Path
AST offers a step-by-step certification process that begins with MAST (Member of the Association for Sandplay Therapy). From there, clinicians can work toward full registration as a Sandplay Therapist (STR) and beyond, supported by qualified mentors and clearly defined training standards.
Ongoing Training and Community Support
Members have access to certified training programs, consultation opportunities, and advanced study with international teaching members. AST is a professional community where serious clinicians engage, grow, and contribute to the evolving field of Sandplay.
Affordable and Accessible
With an annual membership of only $75, AST is committed to keeping high standards accessible. Members benefit from resources, event listings, peer connections, and the opportunity to move toward full registration.
Begin Your Journey
Joining AST as a member is the first step in aligning with an international network of professionals who value symbol, psyche, and ethical therapeutic practice. We welcome licensed clinicians and those in training who are committed to depth work and the healing power of Sandplay.
This is where your professional development in Sandplay begins—with clarity, support, and integrity.
An International Professional Non-Profit Organization Dedicated to Sandplay Therapy
About Us
The Association for Sandplay Therapy, Inc. is an international, non-profit organization committed to the training, registration, and support of mental health clinicians practicing Sandplay Therapy. Our work honors the tradition established by Dora Kalff, the founder of the Sandplay method.
Our Designations
We grant the following professional designations to qualified mental health clinicians who have completed rigorous training in Sandplay Therapy:
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Registered Sandplay Therapist (STR)
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Registered Sandplay Therapist-Consultant (STR-C)
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Registered Sandplay Therapist-Consultant Teacher (STR-CT)
These credentials certify clinicians’ ability to practice, supervise, and teach Sandplay Therapy with integrity and expertise. Additionally, the Association certifies the core training programs and materials used by STR-CT members in their teaching.
Learn More About Our Certification Process
Our Principles
Our work is deeply rooted in the core principles of Sandplay Therapy as taught by Dora Kalff:
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Clarity of Mind, Heart, and Action
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Respect for the Responsibility and Honor of Practicing Sandplay
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Commitment to Personal and Communal Integrity
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Kindness, Loving Compassion, Humility, Transparency, and Playfulness
Members of the Association embody these values in both their professional practice and personal lives, ensuring the highest standards of care and ethical responsibility.
Governance
The Association is guided by a Council of Mentors, a dedicated group of experienced professionals who oversee the organization’s business, management, and strategic direction. This Council serves as a wise and steady presence, supporting the Association’s mission and growth.
Contact & Membership
For more information about membership, training opportunities, or to connect with our community of Sandplay Therapists, please contact us.
The Association for Sandplay Therapy, Inc.
Honoring Tradition. Supporting Excellence. Inspiring Growth.
Council Members
Eunice Stagg, President
Ansa Bestbier
Janet Cassidy (Treasurer / Membership)
Rachel McGovern
Juliette Ttofa
Natalia Valyraki
Celia van Wyk
. . . there is harmony when we work together
Barbara Turner, Founder President Emeritus
Our Equality Statement
Dora Kalff’s, Sandplay