Dance Therapy

Dance Therapy is a non-verbal, action-oriented method of helping people become aware of their feelings by experiencing the direct sensation of movement.

The goal of Dance Therapy is to improve or restore the integration of body and mind, and to help an individual regain a sense of identity, and build self-esteem. It is used to aid and support verbal psychotherapy, physical therapy, and medical therapy.

In 1966 the American Dance Therapy Association was founded to establish standards for professional education and qualifications for individuals who practice this therapy. Prior to the formation of the association, each individual practitioner would go though a trial-and-error process to develop a personalized method utilizing their own knowledge and experience.

Today professional Dance Therapy training occurs on the graduate level. Studies include courses such as dance/movement therapy theory and practice, psychopathology, human development, observation and research skill, and a supervised internship in a clinical setting.

Dance Therapy is used in a variety of settings including psychiatric hospitals, clinics, day care centers, community mental health centers, developmental centers, correctional facilities, special schools, and rehabilitation centers.

Dance Therapy can be used to treat a variety of conditions including some geriatric related difficulties, physical disability, and behavioral problems such as psychosis, neurosis, autism, regression, and substance abuse.