Celebrating the Founding Members of the Sandtray Therapy Association of Australia and Their Inspiring Journey
- sttaaenquiry
- May 8
- 4 min read
The Sandtray Therapy Association of Australia (STTAA) is a beacon of hope in the world of therapeutic practices, providing essential resources for sandtray therapy practitioners. When the founding members set out to establish this association, their commitment and vision formed a sturdy base for future professionals. Today, we honour their achievements while inviting new committee members to join the movement that shapes the future of sandtray therapy in Australia.
The Origins of the Sandtray Therapy Association
The founding members of the Sandtray Therapy Association of Australia (STTAA) played a crucial role in shaping the organisation’s mission and professional standards. Their contributions were significant in several ways:
Establishing a Professional Community
They created a dedicated space for sandtray therapists in Australia to connect, collaborate, and advance their practice.
Their leadership helped unify practitioners under a shared vision.
The founding members were instrumental in drafting the
Code of Ethics and
Practice Standards, ensuring that sandtray therapy maintains high professional integrity.
Their work set the foundation for ethical guidelines that protect both therapists and clients.
By forming the STTAA, they legitimised sandtray therapy as a recognised therapeutic approach.
Their advocacy is helping to integrate sandtray therapy into broader mental health and counselling practices.
Founding Members: The Pillars of the STTAA
A dedicated group of professionals came together to launch the Sandtray Therapy Association of Australia. Each member offered distinct skills and insights, enriching the foundation of the association.
1. Fiona Werle
Fiona is one of Australia’s leading clinical Sandtray therapists and Professional Trainers who’s passion for Sand therapies is contagious. Fiona is the lead trainer at Opengate Institute, a registered training organisation (RTO 45703) delivering the NAT11242 Graduate Diploma of Sandtray Therapy training. Fiona is available to deliver online Supervision Australia wide.
Fiona began her career in mental health as a registered Counsellor after completing her Bachelor degree of Social Science. Fiona trained as a Sandplay therapist, her trainers included many highly esteemed international and local Sandplay trainers.
Fiona has also written two books – A Parents Guide to Psychological Well-being for Children, A Therapists & Teachers Guide to Psychological Wellbeing for the Inner Child. (Volume 2).
2. Joanna Wallace
Joanna has extensive experience in Education, Out of Home Care and Child Protection which complements her qualification of a Graduate Diploma of Sandtray Therapy and a Bachelor of Education. She plans for and facilitates sandtray therapy sessions for children, young people and adults that are developmental appropriate and she is able to quickly establish a positive rapport with children and families. Joanna is the Founder of Sensory Solutions Sand and Play Therapy and offers individual, group, couples and family sandtray therapy sessions.
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3. Karena Williams
Karena incorporates Sandtray Therapy into the school environment where she works and also provides sandtray therapy sessions privately for children.
4. Emma Pallendine
Emma offers a holistic approach and therapeutic intervention for all walks of life, specialising in Sand Tray Therapy. Her passion is supporting children, adults and families wellbeing by guiding them to explore and process their own experiences and emotions.
Her practice is human-centred, trauma-informed and values relationships and connection.
5. Anna Cramp
Anna offers a holistic approach and therapeutic intervention for all walks of life, specialising in Sand Tray Therapy. Her passion is supporting children, adults and families wellbeing by guiding them to explore and process their own experiences and emotions.
Her practice is human-centred, trauma-informed and values relationships and connection. Together Anna and Emma are the founders of The Wellbeing Place
6. Stephen Wallace
Steve is a professional consultant with over 30 years experience in welfare, child protection and is available for family group conferencing and mediation.
Together, these founding members and others laid the groundwork for a thriving community where professionals can excel.
Achievements and Milestones
Since its inception, the Sandtray Therapy Association has accomplished significant milestones that reflect its commitment to promoting the field and supporting its members.
1. Establishing Practice Standards
The STTAA developed comprehensive practice standards within a few years of its formation. These guidelines ensure that therapists provide quality services, adhere to ethical practices, and engage in ongoing training, benefiting both practitioners and their clients.
2. Building Community Connections
The association plans to build community connections through ongoing professional training workshops and presentations .
3. Promoting Research and Development
Supporting research in sandtray therapy remains a core achievement. The STTAA encourages studies and evaluations, helping practitioners access evidence-based information. Members are encouraged to enrol in and complete the Graduate Diploma of Sandtray Therapy of which an important expectation is developing an evidence based of Australian research of the efficacy of Sandtray Therapy
These efforts have carved a path for a vibrant community of sandtray therapists across Australia.
Purpose and Future Direction of the STAA
As the STTAA moves forward, the vision set by its founders remains crucial. The association's primary aim is to continue providing resources and support for practitioners while fostering connections among them.
Future goals include:
1. Expanding Educational Resources
The STTAA is dedicated to broadening its educational offerings.
2. Advocating for Recognition
One challenge for sandtray therapists is gaining broader acceptance within the mental health field in particular to provide Australian evidence and research to NDIA. The STTAA is committed to advocacy efforts that promote the legitimacy of sandtray therapy.
By fostering community outreach, the association plans to educate the public about the benefits of sandtray therapy. These efforts aim to increase awareness and user engagement through but not limited to, workshops for school staff and teachers, and participating in localised community services expo's.
As prospective committee members and practitioners consider joining this growing association, they can take pride in contributing to a legacy shaped by the founding members.
A Lasting Legacy
The founding members of the Sandtray Therapy Association of Australia seek to leave an enduring impact on therapeutic practices in the country. Their collective efforts create a strong foundation that encourages practitioners to connect, collaborate, and contribute to the growth of sandtray therapy.
As the association continues to evolve, the legacy of the founding members inspires future committee members and practitioners. Together, they can celebrate past achievements while unlocking new possibilities in the transformative world of sandtray therapy.
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