Dance Therapy

1. Dance Therapy

Dance Therapy, also known as Dance Movement Therapy (DMT), is a type of psychotherapy that uses movement and dance to support the emotional, cognitive, physical, and social integration of individuals. Dance therapy is practiced in a variety of settings, including hospitals, schools, nursing homes, and private practice.

History

Dance therapy emerged as a field in the 1940s, primarily in the United States. It was influenced by the work of Marian Chace, who is considered one of the pioneers of dance therapy. Chace's work at St. Elizabeths Hospital in Washington, D.C. laid the foundation for the development of dance therapy as a recognized form of treatment.

Principles

Dance therapy is based on the principle that movement reflects an individual's patterns of thinking and feeling. By engaging in dance and movement, individuals can experience a range of emotions and explore their inner world. Dance therapists use movement to help clients improve their self-esteem, body image, and communication skills.

Techniques

Dance therapists employ a variety of techniques, including:

• Mirroring: The therapist mirrors the client's movements to build rapport and understanding.
• Improvisation: Clients are encouraged to move freely and expressively, which can lead to new insights and emotional release.
• Structured Dance: Specific dance movements are used to achieve therapeutic goals.

Benefits

Dance therapy has been shown to be beneficial for individuals with a wide range of conditions, including:

• Depression
• Anxiety
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Autism spectrum disorder
• Chronic pain

Professional Organizations

The American Dance Therapy Association (ADTA) is a professional organization that supports the field of dance therapy. The ADTA provides resources for practitioners and promotes the use of dance therapy in various settings.

See Also

• Art therapy
• Music therapy
• Drama therapy

References

• American Dance Therapy Association. "What is Dance/Movement Therapy?" Retrieved from [1]
• Levy, F. J. (1988). Dance Movement Therapy: A Healing Art. Reston, VA: American Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation, and Dance.

External Links

• American Dance Therapy Association