SANDTRAY THERAPY

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TSTA believes that Sandtray is fundamentally a nondirective approach, although directive techniques can be applied when appropriate, as guided by the Sandtray therapist’s clinical judgement and theoretical orientation. The therapeutic stance is client centered, allowing the client to lead the process and interpret his or her own work while the therapist demonstrates total positive regard. Because the client’s work is symbolic, the therapist stays in the metaphor. The sandtray is a sacred space that must be protected from all intrusions, including the therapist’s or another’s body, interpretation and/or narrative. 

Although we acknowledge the many people who have contributed to the creation and continued evolution of Sandtray, we also believe that this modality began with the World Technique, created by Margaret Lowenfeld. We believe Dora Kolff took World Technique and through her Jungian theoretical perspective made adaptations to the modality which became Sand Play. From Sand Play, Sandtray has evolved.

While we welcome different ideas and perspectives about sandtray, this is the definition of Sandtray that TSTA stands behind.

 

TSTA HISTORY  

 

2014

Texas SandTray Association (TSTA) evolved from Austin SandTray Association (ASTA), so let’s start there.  ASTA began its formation in 2014. Karen Burke, who had been trained in sandtray therapy by Dr. Theresa Kestly, was supervising three LPC Associates, who had all received sandtray training from Karen. One of them, Elisha Bidwell, was helping to organize a training with Bonnie Badenoch called Trauma and the Embodied Brain. Bonnie asked if sandtrays and miniatures could be provided as part of the training. Brainstorming possibilities in a group supervision session, there was discussion about how nice it would be to have sandtrays, miniatures, and people for ongoing sandtray trainings. It was decided that it was time for an organization to support those looking to advance sandtray therapy. Liz Heyl and Julia Halfman were the two other LPC Associates and the four became the founding members of Austin SandTray Association.

 

2017

From here monthly trainings began, and a strong following of mental health professionals followed. ASTA continued to train and host annual conferences and after just 3 years, it was decided to extend the reach to the entire state. Much effort, time, and resources went into visualizing the purpose and vision of this organization and how certification would work. The focus of the organization would be to anchor down the fundamentals of sandtray therapy, based on evidence-based information, provide opportunities for networking, and to provide quality sandtray training. The founding members are listed below. Each one contributed in an impactful, special way. Texas SandTray Association (TSTA) was kicked off in 2017 and includes a pathway to becoming a Certified Clinical Sandtray Therapist (CCST). We offer basic certification, school-based certification, and an advanced path. TSTA also hosts an annual conference each year, which provides opportunities for networking and gaining meaningful continuing education in sandtray therapy.

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FOUNDING MEMEBERS

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Karen Burke
Rebecca Roth
​Liz Heyl
Kirby Schroeder
​Elisha Tomberlin
Lacey Fisher
​Brittany Jones
​Katherine Granberry