Moving into well-being

Dance movement psychotherapy is a form of therapy which can help with your physical, emotional and psychological health by using creativity and body awareness. The main aim of dance movement psychotherapy is to increase your well-being, self-confidence and relationships (both with yourself and with others in your life). 

Dance movement psychotherapy recognises that the way we move our body is an expression of our feelings, emotions and thoughts. Some of us struggle to verbally explain how we are feeling and this form of therapy offers you the opportunity to express yourself without having to use words. 

Therapeutic props are used during sessions, along with music and art materials. These props allow you express your inner creativity and to connect with others. 

Dance movement psychotherapy has proved to be a very effective method for anyone: children, adults and older adults. It can enhance communication skills and social interactions in people affected by mental health problems, dementia and learning difficulties. It is also an excellent way to increase personal confidence through self-expression and the ability to experience feeling in a physical and creative way.

You don't have to be a good dancer for dance movement psychotherapy to be an effective form of therapy. Movement is used in a wide variety of ways and it doesn't actually look like a dance! The session will often start with verbal interactions and a physical warm up. You will then choose which therapeutic props appeal to you and that you'd like to use in the session to express your feelings and thoughts. You can then share any personal insights, discoveries and feedback verbally during the session.

The views expressed in this article are those of the author. All articles published on Counselling Directory are reviewed by our editorial team.

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