Registered
What is Sandplay Therapy?
Sandplay Therapy is a powerful, in-depth psychotherapy that allows clients—both children and adults—to explore their inner world non-verbally. Through the arrangement of miniature figures in a tray of sand, individuals can express deep emotions, conflicts, and potentials in a safe and structured environment. Rooted in Jungian psychology, Sandplay is a modality that enables profound psychological transformation without the need for verbal interpretation, making it particularly effective for trauma work and self-discovery.
Jungian Sandplay Therapy is a psychotherapy that goes to the core of trauma to heal it on different levels. It is not only a modality where one discovers one’s inner self. It is much more and much deeper than that. It enables the pathway to one’s true, authentic Self, which is called the Individuation Process according to Jung. In other words, it entails the healing of trauma and emotional imbalances due to brain imbalances and more. For this exact reason one has to be a or have a qualification as a mental health professional (e.g. psychologist, Occupational Therapist, counsellor, social worker, play therapist, educational psychologist etc.), and can e.g. teachers not be accepted into the training program. This is also a requirement from AST, which cannot be overruled.
We witness time and again how even mental health clinicians struggle with the psychological aspects involved in Sandplay Therapy, once they reach the Advanced Training. Sandplay seems deceitfully simple – however, it is a complex modality.
WhY Sandplay Therapy?
Deep, Transformational Work – Engage in a therapeutic method that promotes healing at a profound level.
Effective for Diverse Clients – Beneficial for both children and adults, especially those struggling to verbalize their experiences.
Respected and Accredited – Gain AST-accredited training, leading to registration as a Sandplay Therapist.
Neuroscientific Basis – Learn how Sandplay influences neuroplasticity and healing at a biological level.
Symbolism and Mythology – Understand the role of symbolic imagery in psychological change.
Creative Therapies – Sandplay, are widely used in schools, counseling settings, and mental health practices.
Jungian Foundation – Ground yourself in analytical psychology and depth-oriented therapy.
Dora Kalff developed Jungian Sandplay Therapy in the mid-20th century to conduct Jungian analysis with children.
Training as a Registered Sandplay Therapist – is available in small, supportive groups, offering both professional growth and CPD points.
“Sandplay Therapy as an added modality has the power to access the unconscious, bypass verbal barriers, and facilitate deep-seated trauma healing. It empowers psychologists and counsellors to guide clients toward profound self-discovery, emotional integration, and lasting transformation.”
Dr. Celia van Wyk
What Does the Training Involve?
Key Learning Areas
Introduction to Sandplay Therapy
Neuroscience & Neuroplasticity in Sandplay
Symbolism & Myth in Sandplay Therapy
Working with Adults & Children
Alchemy, Chakras & Psychological Transformation
Understanding & Tracking the Sandplay Process
In-depth Case Studies & Practical Applications
Who Can Apply?
Applicants must have postgraduate education in mental health treatment (psychotherapy, counseling, art therapy, or social work). Exceptions will be made for applicants in regions where these qualifications are not available, provided they have relevant training and experience. A person who has a qualification in or are in training of a mental health qualification, may apply.
Certification & Accreditation
This program follows the International Curriculum Training and leads to recognition as: 
STR – Registered Sandplay Therapist STR-C – Registered Sandplay Therapist-Consultant STR-CT – Registered Sandplay Therapist-Consultant Teacher
Next Training Dates: 4 June 2025 – 15 June 2026
CPD Accreditation: 25 Clinical CEUs | 5 Ethical CEUs
You will receive all the theoretical training required for AST registration, which will include topics such as Introduction to Sandplay Therapy.
Jungian Psychology; Neuroscience in Sandplay;
Use of Symbols in Sandplay;
Understanding & Tracking the Process of Sandplay;
Studying of real Cases;
Working with Children & Adults in Sandplay;
Myths & Stories in Sandplay;
“Jungian Sandplay Therapy goes beyond self-discovery—it heals trauma at its core, guiding you toward your true, authentic Self through the Individuation Process. “
Dr. Celia van Wyk
Transform Your Therapeutic Practice
Transform your therapeutic practice with AST-accredited Sandplay Training. Apply now and embark on a journey of deep psychological healing and transformation.
Become a Registered Sandplay Therapist
Join our small, interactive, and supportive group of mental health professionals looking to enhance their practice with the transformative modality of Sandplay Therapy.
Explore Your Personal Process
Learn Evidence-Based Skills
Become a Confident Certified Therapist
Integrate Creative Approaches
Ongoing Support from Experts
Flexible Online Learning
You will receive all the theoretical training required for AST Registration.
Mental Health Professionals Counsellors Psychologists
This training is ideal for Clinical Psychologists, Counselors, and other Mental health Professionals looking to add Sandplay Therapy to their toolkit.
“Unlock the power of expression and healing – Sandplay Therapy equips psychologists with an added modality for profound transformation, and offers counsellors a stand-alone approach to guide clients through self-discovery and emotional growth. It’s the key to reaching the unconscious, enabling deep-seated trauma healing without the need for verbal communication.”
Dr. Celia van Wyk
The Association for Sandplay Therapy (AST)
The Association for Sandplay Therapy (AST) is an international professional organization dedicated to the training and registration of mental health clinicians in Jungian Sandplay Therapy. Founded on the core principles taught by Dora Kalff, the originator of Sandplay Therapy, AST emphasizes clarity of mind, heart, and action in therapeutic practice.
AST offers various membership levels, including Registered Sandplay Therapist (STR), Registered Sandplay Therapist-Consultant (STR-C), and Registered Sandplay Therapist-Consultant Teacher (STR-CT). These designations are granted to clinicians who have completed the requisite training to practice, supervise, and teach Sandplay Therapy.
For those interested in pursuing training, AST provides accredited programs worldwide. In South Africa, Sandplay South Africa offers a comprehensive AST-accredited training program that includes both online sessions and practical workshops.