What is DANCE MOVEMENT PSYCHOTHERAPY?


Dance Movement Psychotherapy (also known as Dance Movement Therapy or Dance Therapy) is a movement-based therapy in which the client-therapist relationship plays a central role. The professional Association for Dance Movement Therapy (to be renamed Association for Dance Movement Psychotherapy UK in spring 2008) defines the field as: 'the psychotherapeutic use of movement and dance through which a person can engage creatively in a process to further their emotional, cognitive, physical and social integration' (ADMT UK, 2007 p 1). Dance Movement Psychotherapy is founded on the principle that movement reflects an individual's patterns of thinking, feeling and communicating. Through acknowledging and supporting the client's movements, the Dance Movement Psychotherapy practitioner encourages development and integration of new adaptive movement patterns together with the emotional and relational experiences that accompany such changes.

While the use of dance as a healing art is historical, the profession is influenced by contemporary psychological theories, psychotherapeutic and therapeutic practices, multi-cultural traditions in dance, bodywork and spiritual development. Dance Movement Psychotherapy is continually informed by national and international research studies.The practice of Dance Movement Psychotherapy is restricted to registered practitioners. The requirements for registration as fit to practise are overseen by ADMT UK. This body assumes responsibility for the safe practice of Dance Movement Psychotherapy through a published code of ethics and principles of professional practice. (Note: ADMT UK has successfully applied to the Health Professions Council for registration and is currently awaiting amendment of the Health Professions Act).Dance Movement Psychotherapy is practised with individuals and groups, predominantly in education, health, prisons, social services and other community-based settings (e.g. voluntary and private organisations). Senior registered practitioners also work in private practice.Dance Movement Psychotherapy is provided to a wide range of clients of all ages. It is a treatment modality for people who are emotionally distressed, who experience physical or mental illness, and for those with physical and/or cognitive impairment as well as people who seek personal growth.

There are a number of studies that provide evidence for the effectiveness of Dance Movement Psychotherapy for a wide array of symptoms. It has been shown to reduce anxiety, and improve self-concept, self-efficacy, imagination and body awareness. Other research studies have concentrated on specific populations including clients with schizophrenia, learning disabilities, depression, Parkinson's disease and survivors of sexual abuse with similar positive results.
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