“Movement accesses emotions that may be unreachable by words”
Dance Movement Psychotherapy (DMP) is a relational process where the client and therapist use body movement and dance as an instrument of communication during the therapy process.
DMP is an empathic creative process practiced as individual and group therapy in clinical, community, and educational settings, as well as in private practice.
HOW DANCE MOVEMENT PSYCHOTHERAPY WORKS
Through movement, even if it’s very small or limited, emotions are released and expressed.
These movements and feelings are then acknowledged by the therapist, who creates a safe environment for clients to feel secure, understood, and accepted as they move and express themselves.
DMP also promotes socialisation, relaxation, and self-control. It builds confidence and reduces anxiety, and accesses emotions that may be unreachable by words.
A DMP session lasts approximately 60 minutes and is structured according to the clients’ or group’s needs. This may sometimes involve one-to-one relationships or, more usually, group work. Music, props, instruments and materials are also used to motivate self-expression.
Dancing and moving in a group create a sense of belonging, acceptance, and understanding for individuals, and the togetherness and fun they experience have healing properties in themselves.
WHO WILL BENEFIT FROM DANCE MOVEMENT PSYCHOTHERAPY?
DMP is safe and suitable for everyone. Children, the elderly, families, and individual adults can all benefit from it. It has been widely used in psychiatry and for those who struggle to manage emotional issues, anxiety and other types of distress.
DMP is used in Day Centres, residential care homes for the elderly, settings for people with mental health issues, and any venue where dance movement is required. It benefits people with special needs, such as learning disabilities, complex needs, and autism, since verbal communication is not a priority when music/movement is used. Throughout my experience, I found that everyone enjoys dancing and its benefits.