Description of a Session
The therapeutic experience is truly a dialogue between the patient and therapist. Dance therapists work on a one-to-one basis to deal with personal emotional issues. Groups are used when the benefit of additional emotional support is desired. Groups also allow for increased communication and help abuse victims re-establish physical boundaries with others. Treatment is always individualized and may extend to include other techniques the dance therapist uses — like art, drama, music or talk therapy.

Sometimes the therapist may move with the patient, in order to support their expression. This is called “empathic mirroring”. Other therapists act purely as observers. Others still may do their own movements in response to those of the patient, which provides feedback or encourages the patient in their expression.

For the initial consult, the therapist and the patient will discuss goals for the treatment. During the sessions, loose comfortable should be worn, allowing for freedom of movement. No prior dance experience is needed. To determine the regimen for an individual, the therapist might explore the patient’s body posture and movement patterns in response to particular emotional and psychological challenges and then explore movement options that open a wider range of possible responses. As part of the session, the therapist will observe and learn about the way the patient moves and walks about the space, taking note of posture, breathing, body shape, etc. Treatment goals are determined and discussed with the patient and a plan of action and time framework is agreed upon. Props may be used, or role-playing carried out as part of the actual movement regimen. Goals are reviewed throughout the course of treatment and re-evaluated.

Course of treatment
The number of sessions varies with the individual and the agreed-upon treatment goals. Progress will be evaluated throughout treatment.

Side Effects
There are no known side effects as long as the safety issues mentioned below are taken into consideration.

Safety Issues
A qualified dance therapist should be employed. In this manner the physical limitations, emotional condition and cultural background of the patient can be taken into consideration, allowing the work to progress with this knowledge.

Other Modalities that Work Well with this Approach
Dance therapists may themselves utilize other modalities like art or drama therapy. Visualizations and talk therapy can also be a part of their treatment. It also combines well with bodywork, stress-reduction and self-awareness techniques. And dance therapy is often used as part of a multi-disciplinary treatment regimen, involving work with nurses, occupational therapists, psychotherapists, and other health professionals.

Content last modified on Sep 4, 2003