Dance Movement Therapy in Tucson, AZ

Photo of Kresta Werner, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MA, LPC, CCST
Kresta Werner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MA, LPC, CCST
5 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85712
Sex-positive, I cherish relationship as an intimate dance in which mutual partnership depends on curiosity, vulnerability, play and growth.
I am an AASECT certified Sex Therapist with a whole-bodied/somatic and sex-positive approach to therapy with individuals and couples. Embodiment while relating is an invitation into more authentic and intimate relationship. While talk-therapies prioritize talking (a top-down approach), I sometimes interweave somatic practice: breathing, sensing and moving.
Sex-positive, I cherish relationship as an intimate dance in which mutual partnership depends on curiosity, vulnerability, play and growth.
I am an AASECT certified Sex Therapist with a whole-bodied/somatic and sex-positive approach to therapy with individuals and couples. Embodiment while relating is an invitation into more authentic and intimate relationship. While talk-therapies prioritize talking (a top-down approach), I sometimes interweave somatic practice: breathing, sensing and moving.
(520) 210-5972 View (520) 210-5972
Photo of Nicole Surran - Nicole Surran @ Relationship Renovation Counseling, Counselor, LAC, R-DMT
Nicole Surran @ Relationship Renovation Counseling
Counselor, LAC, R-DMT
1 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85716
As a relationship expert and Dance/ Movement Therapist, I specialize in working with adolescents, couples, and families to build emotional awareness, improve communication, and strengthen connections.
Relationship Renovation supports couples, individuals, and families in building connection, healing, and growth. Our structured, but non-cookie-cutter approach enhances communication, resolves conflict and rebuilds trust. Whether strengthening relationships or navigating personal challenges, we provide expert guidance and a supportive path to lasting change.
As a relationship expert and Dance/ Movement Therapist, I specialize in working with adolescents, couples, and families to build emotional awareness, improve communication, and strengthen connections.
Relationship Renovation supports couples, individuals, and families in building connection, healing, and growth. Our structured, but non-cookie-cutter approach enhances communication, resolves conflict and rebuilds trust. Whether strengthening relationships or navigating personal challenges, we provide expert guidance and a supportive path to lasting change.
(520) 397-3414 View (520) 397-3414
Photo of Leslie McCormick, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, R-DMT
Leslie McCormick
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, R-DMT
2 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85701
I guide authentic movement, poetry therapy, choreotherapy, and more to usher you into greater fulfillment.
You’re searching for meaning or purpose in life. Perhaps you want to trust your intuition more. You feel at a crossroads. You’ve been successful in your work but feel a bit unsatisfied. You’re stable but lacking joie de vivre. You’re a creative, but not feeling all that creative right now. You sense this isn't something your sharp intellect or talk therapy can help you with. You feel your body holds wisdom for you, but you don’t know how to access it. I put decades of experience in psychotherapy and depth, creative, and contemplative processes in service of guiding and witnessing your unfolding into a more authentic, at-peace you.
I guide authentic movement, poetry therapy, choreotherapy, and more to usher you into greater fulfillment.
You’re searching for meaning or purpose in life. Perhaps you want to trust your intuition more. You feel at a crossroads. You’ve been successful in your work but feel a bit unsatisfied. You’re stable but lacking joie de vivre. You’re a creative, but not feeling all that creative right now. You sense this isn't something your sharp intellect or talk therapy can help you with. You feel your body holds wisdom for you, but you don’t know how to access it. I put decades of experience in psychotherapy and depth, creative, and contemplative processes in service of guiding and witnessing your unfolding into a more authentic, at-peace you.
(520) 502-7391 View (520) 502-7391
Photo of Robin Memel Fox, Counselor, MA, BC-DMT, LPC
Robin Memel Fox
Counselor, MA, BC-DMT, LPC
3 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85715
Waitlist for new clients
I utilize relational, psychodynamic, body-centered/somatic psychotherapy, neuro-psychotherapy, EMDR, mindfulness, play therapy, dance/ movement therapy & expressive arts.
I believe that clients are co-creators in the process. Healing and growth occurs when we are willing to share openly and work towards developing an authentic, therapeutic relationship. I have extensive experience with survivors of all types of trauma, relationship issues, domestic abuse, mood disorders, infertility issues, eating disorders, substance use, women's/men's issues & lifestyle changes. The therapeutic process will focus on helping you to re-discover & develop strengths, resiliency and coping skills. Join me as I create a safe space for you to dive into exploring the source of your current struggles and innate wisdom.
I utilize relational, psychodynamic, body-centered/somatic psychotherapy, neuro-psychotherapy, EMDR, mindfulness, play therapy, dance/ movement therapy & expressive arts.
I believe that clients are co-creators in the process. Healing and growth occurs when we are willing to share openly and work towards developing an authentic, therapeutic relationship. I have extensive experience with survivors of all types of trauma, relationship issues, domestic abuse, mood disorders, infertility issues, eating disorders, substance use, women's/men's issues & lifestyle changes. The therapeutic process will focus on helping you to re-discover & develop strengths, resiliency and coping skills. Join me as I create a safe space for you to dive into exploring the source of your current struggles and innate wisdom.
(520) 332-6144 View (520) 332-6144
Photo of Daniel Jacob Self, Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Daniel Jacob Self
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Utilizing the latest nervous system research, along with traditional practices going back thousands of years, we can explore a broad range of tools together: including breathwork, dance, ritual, creativity — or we can just simply talk: honoring the transformative power of sharing things we've never fully acknowledged or felt safe enough to be seen.
Deep inside of you is the awareness of what you need to heal. I help facilitate and unearth that inner wisdom with individuals, relationships, and groups. Together, we'll practice tuning into your own unique embodied truth. From there, we can translate that increased clarity into tangible action that aligns with your greatest, most authentic wellbeing. Our bodies exist within larger systems — many of which can disconnect us from ourselves and each other. We'll look together at the messages we've internalized from these systems in order to unearth the ones that are no longer helpful.
Utilizing the latest nervous system research, along with traditional practices going back thousands of years, we can explore a broad range of tools together: including breathwork, dance, ritual, creativity — or we can just simply talk: honoring the transformative power of sharing things we've never fully acknowledged or felt safe enough to be seen.
Deep inside of you is the awareness of what you need to heal. I help facilitate and unearth that inner wisdom with individuals, relationships, and groups. Together, we'll practice tuning into your own unique embodied truth. From there, we can translate that increased clarity into tangible action that aligns with your greatest, most authentic wellbeing. Our bodies exist within larger systems — many of which can disconnect us from ourselves and each other. We'll look together at the messages we've internalized from these systems in order to unearth the ones that are no longer helpful.
(206) 202-6027 View (206) 202-6027
Photo of Sophia Sims, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, SEP
Sophia Sims
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, SEP
2 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85718
I am passionate about being a source of strength, hope and empowerment to individuals, couples and families as they uncover their innate capacity to be the best they can be for themselves and their loved ones. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in private practice in Tucson, Arizona. I am a Certified through ICEEFT as an Emotionally Focused Therapist. I am a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner, which uses a body-oriented approach for the healing of trauma and other stress disorders, founded by Dr. Peter Levine. Somatic Experiencing is about creating more choice - body, mind & spirit.
I am passionate about being a source of strength, hope and empowerment to individuals, couples and families as they uncover their innate capacity to be the best they can be for themselves and their loved ones. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in private practice in Tucson, Arizona. I am a Certified through ICEEFT as an Emotionally Focused Therapist. I am a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner, which uses a body-oriented approach for the healing of trauma and other stress disorders, founded by Dr. Peter Levine. Somatic Experiencing is about creating more choice - body, mind & spirit.
(520) 441-8816 View (520) 441-8816
Photo of Lilliana Magali Hoy-Nielsen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Lilliana Magali Hoy-Nielsen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
3 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85704
Magali Hoy-Nielsen has been working with clients who have extensive trauma experiences, sexual, physical abuse, domestic violence, and parent/child attachment disorder. Magali focuses on the specific trauma that has impacted the client's life and guides that client in finding clarity, self healing, and a path towards self control. Magali has been working in the area of trauma and attachment for 19 years, helping mend broken and damaged parent/child relationships, which is the core of healthy connections in the future.
Magali Hoy-Nielsen has been working with clients who have extensive trauma experiences, sexual, physical abuse, domestic violence, and parent/child attachment disorder. Magali focuses on the specific trauma that has impacted the client's life and guides that client in finding clarity, self healing, and a path towards self control. Magali has been working in the area of trauma and attachment for 19 years, helping mend broken and damaged parent/child relationships, which is the core of healthy connections in the future.
(520) 224-1924 View (520) 224-1924
Photo of Angela C De Maio, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LISAC
Angela C De Maio
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LISAC
Tucson, AZ 85719
My primary focus is emotional health and well-being by utilizing the Whole Person Concept. This enables clients to make great stride in personal transformation and gains in self-esteem, improvement in the quality of their life at work, in intimate relationships and with family, friends and overcome social anxiety. By utilizing the bio-psycho-social-spiritual approach and traditional cognitive behavioral therapy in helping to reframe the presenting problem, we discover new possibilities to cope with life stressors. This process may include Jungian psychology, dream analysis, creative visualization, mindfulness meditation and Art.
My primary focus is emotional health and well-being by utilizing the Whole Person Concept. This enables clients to make great stride in personal transformation and gains in self-esteem, improvement in the quality of their life at work, in intimate relationships and with family, friends and overcome social anxiety. By utilizing the bio-psycho-social-spiritual approach and traditional cognitive behavioral therapy in helping to reframe the presenting problem, we discover new possibilities to cope with life stressors. This process may include Jungian psychology, dream analysis, creative visualization, mindfulness meditation and Art.
(520) 447-1121 View (520) 447-1121
Photo of Dr. Rita de Cassia Silva, Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LCSW, PPS, CWA
Dr. Rita de Cassia Silva
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LCSW, PPS, CWA
Online Only
Do you wake up in the morning feeling empty, tired, and unmotivated? Are you struggling with issues related to your past, uncontrollable thoughts, anger, grief, communication, anxiety, or major life changes? Are you seeking a more loving, meaningful, and harmonious relationship with your partner and your loved ones but don't know how or what to do to improve it? There comes a time when help is needed from a licensed professional. As Maya Angelou wrote, "There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you".
Do you wake up in the morning feeling empty, tired, and unmotivated? Are you struggling with issues related to your past, uncontrollable thoughts, anger, grief, communication, anxiety, or major life changes? Are you seeking a more loving, meaningful, and harmonious relationship with your partner and your loved ones but don't know how or what to do to improve it? There comes a time when help is needed from a licensed professional. As Maya Angelou wrote, "There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you".
(904) 595-1722 View (904) 595-1722

Online Therapists

Photo of Sarah Cortez, Counselor, LPC, R-DMT, GL-CMA
Sarah Cortez
Counselor, LPC, R-DMT, GL-CMA
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I obtained my Master of Arts in Dance/ Movement Therapy and Counseling from Columbia College Chicago, while also acquiring my certification in movement analysis.
I utilize a person-centered, non-judgmental, open-minded approach, working with clients on their individualized goals. Therapy is not a "one-size fits all." Each individual arrives with their own story, and we will work together to create a better, more hopeful, and functional future.
I obtained my Master of Arts in Dance/ Movement Therapy and Counseling from Columbia College Chicago, while also acquiring my certification in movement analysis.
I utilize a person-centered, non-judgmental, open-minded approach, working with clients on their individualized goals. Therapy is not a "one-size fits all." Each individual arrives with their own story, and we will work together to create a better, more hopeful, and functional future.
(928) 384-3154 View (928) 384-3154
Photo of Ashley N Hebert - Hebert Counseling & Consulting Services, Counselor, LPC
Hebert Counseling & Consulting Services
Counselor, LPC
2 Endorsed
Mesa, AZ 85213
Each counselor specializes in different modalities and with different populations but some of the primary treatments we offer include: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR) Trauma-Focused Therapy Expressive Arts Breathwork and Mindfulness Training Dance/ Movement
At Hebert Counseling & Consulting Services, we understand that life can sometimes feel overwhelming. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, or other challenges, we're here to help you find practical solutions to improve your overall well-being and life satisfaction. We help individuals who know life can be better but aren't sure how to get there by: -Providing empathetic healing through evidence-based therapy -Guiding you through trauma, anxiety, and depression recovery -Helping you find your strength and inner calm -Teaching practical coping skills to navigate life's challenges
Each counselor specializes in different modalities and with different populations but some of the primary treatments we offer include: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR) Trauma-Focused Therapy Expressive Arts Breathwork and Mindfulness Training Dance/ Movement
At Hebert Counseling & Consulting Services, we understand that life can sometimes feel overwhelming. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, or other challenges, we're here to help you find practical solutions to improve your overall well-being and life satisfaction. We help individuals who know life can be better but aren't sure how to get there by: -Providing empathetic healing through evidence-based therapy -Guiding you through trauma, anxiety, and depression recovery -Helping you find your strength and inner calm -Teaching practical coping skills to navigate life's challenges
(480) 470-3815 x100 View (480) 470-3815 x100
Photo of Jeni Steele (Gessel), Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CMHC
Jeni Steele (Gessel)
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CMHC
2 Endorsed
Mesa, AZ 85209
I like to use breathwork and movement.
Hello, I’m Jeni and I help people through the trauma of deceptive sexuality and infidelity. The psychological chaos of Deceptive Sexuality Trauma creates a tsunami of traumatic stress. This stress threatens everything you know. You may be experiencing Reality-Ego Fragmentation, high anxiety, fear & numbness, an Attachment Rupture, health issues, dissociation, hyper-vigilance & other signs and symptoms of Complex Trauma & grief. You need the support and care of someone who understands this psychology. I've studied deceptive sexuality, intimacy, sexual health, abuse, and the impact of psychological trauma in our community since 2010.
I like to use breathwork and movement.
Hello, I’m Jeni and I help people through the trauma of deceptive sexuality and infidelity. The psychological chaos of Deceptive Sexuality Trauma creates a tsunami of traumatic stress. This stress threatens everything you know. You may be experiencing Reality-Ego Fragmentation, high anxiety, fear & numbness, an Attachment Rupture, health issues, dissociation, hyper-vigilance & other signs and symptoms of Complex Trauma & grief. You need the support and care of someone who understands this psychology. I've studied deceptive sexuality, intimacy, sexual health, abuse, and the impact of psychological trauma in our community since 2010.
(480) 903-8540 View (480) 903-8540
Photo of Vanessa Farrior, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Vanessa Farrior
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
6 Endorsed
Online Only
In addition to talk therapy, I offer RESET Breathwork and mindful movement as my key modalities.
You just woke up to an unexpected death in the family, someone you love dearly. You feel scared, lost and alone. You can't believe this actually happened. Now suddenly you're in charge of handeling everything related to their affairs. You can barely function, yet here you are expected to take charge. People reach out sending sympathetic texts and phone calls but you don't know what to say to them. There literally are no words. Your feel numb and you're just trying to make it through the day without having a breakdown.
In addition to talk therapy, I offer RESET Breathwork and mindful movement as my key modalities.
You just woke up to an unexpected death in the family, someone you love dearly. You feel scared, lost and alone. You can't believe this actually happened. Now suddenly you're in charge of handeling everything related to their affairs. You can barely function, yet here you are expected to take charge. People reach out sending sympathetic texts and phone calls but you don't know what to say to them. There literally are no words. Your feel numb and you're just trying to make it through the day without having a breakdown.
(480) 405-3180 View (480) 405-3180
Halli Tinti
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Mesa, AZ 85205
As a dance instructor for 20 years, I have worked with teens in many aspects of their lives.
You don’t find your authentic self- you uncover it. Let me help you discover who you are and whatever roadblocks are stopping you. We will explore depression, anxiety, fear, or unhealthy patterns in your relationships. Together we can help you live a life where joy is not something you long for but can feel every single day. Through my own journey in therapy I learned that change is not only possible, but it is real and lasting. Although our lives can become heavy and seemingly unbearable, there is hope. All is not lost. Suffering is not inevitable.
As a dance instructor for 20 years, I have worked with teens in many aspects of their lives.
You don’t find your authentic self- you uncover it. Let me help you discover who you are and whatever roadblocks are stopping you. We will explore depression, anxiety, fear, or unhealthy patterns in your relationships. Together we can help you live a life where joy is not something you long for but can feel every single day. Through my own journey in therapy I learned that change is not only possible, but it is real and lasting. Although our lives can become heavy and seemingly unbearable, there is hope. All is not lost. Suffering is not inevitable.
(480) 923-7484 View (480) 923-7484
Photo of Zachary Telepak, Counselor, MA, LPC
Zachary Telepak
Counselor, MA, LPC
Gilbert, AZ 85234
Feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or uncertain about your next steps? As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I help adults gain clarity, confidence, and direction during times of stress, transition, or self-doubt. I use evidence-based methods like CBT, EMDR, and DBT—blended with reflective tools such as guided writing and visual exercises—to support deeper insight, emotional regulation, and meaningful progress. Therapy offers a structured, creative space to reset, reconnect, and move forward with purpose and self-trust.
Feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or uncertain about your next steps? As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I help adults gain clarity, confidence, and direction during times of stress, transition, or self-doubt. I use evidence-based methods like CBT, EMDR, and DBT—blended with reflective tools such as guided writing and visual exercises—to support deeper insight, emotional regulation, and meaningful progress. Therapy offers a structured, creative space to reset, reconnect, and move forward with purpose and self-trust.
(480) 680-9427 View (480) 680-9427
Photo of Cara Comparone, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Cara Comparone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Hello! My name is Cara Comparone and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker practicing in the state of Arizona. I am passionate about helping adolescents, young adults, and families who have experienced trauma or other life stressors find healing through a variety of avenues by giving them a space to process their experiences, improve their self-identity, strengthen their relationships, and find meaningful activities that will contribute to a positive sense of self.
Hello! My name is Cara Comparone and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker practicing in the state of Arizona. I am passionate about helping adolescents, young adults, and families who have experienced trauma or other life stressors find healing through a variety of avenues by giving them a space to process their experiences, improve their self-identity, strengthen their relationships, and find meaningful activities that will contribute to a positive sense of self.
(480) 568-3238 View (480) 568-3238
Photo of Adam Petty, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CET, EMDR
Adam Petty
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CET, EMDR
2 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85283
When you look around, what do you see? Are there opportunities or obstacles, support or neglect? Today's concerns and issues need new thoughts, strategies and patterns, along with a community to help bring them together. Our specialty is in helping you find the unique patterns that speak to your truth. Finding nurture to heal your neglect. And connecting you with authentic support and a healthy family you choose. We specialize in processing, somatic, and engagement therapies. We go to work on the traumatic hurdles, engaging our spiritual and creative parts, to develop the options, motivation, and optimism we all deserve.
When you look around, what do you see? Are there opportunities or obstacles, support or neglect? Today's concerns and issues need new thoughts, strategies and patterns, along with a community to help bring them together. Our specialty is in helping you find the unique patterns that speak to your truth. Finding nurture to heal your neglect. And connecting you with authentic support and a healthy family you choose. We specialize in processing, somatic, and engagement therapies. We go to work on the traumatic hurdles, engaging our spiritual and creative parts, to develop the options, motivation, and optimism we all deserve.
(480) 630-0117 View (480) 630-0117
Photo of Michele Lentte Davis - Sonoran Health , Pre-Licensed Professional, BSW , MSW, LGSW
Sonoran Health
Pre-Licensed Professional, BSW , MSW, LGSW
Chandler, AZ 85286
I am licensed Clinical Social Worker with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & parenting issues. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started !Additional areas of focus: Adoption and foster care, Aging and geriatric issues, Attachment issues, Autism and Asperger
I am licensed Clinical Social Worker with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & parenting issues. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started !Additional areas of focus: Adoption and foster care, Aging and geriatric issues, Attachment issues, Autism and Asperger
(651) 362-1625 x644097 View (651) 362-1625 x644097
Photo of Christina Kafalas, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Christina Kafalas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Have you been feeling lost or unsure of yourself? Do you feel like you’re drifting through life with little meaning or purpose? Look no further. I specialize in enhancing self-esteem and identity. I also specialize in polyamory/ENM relationship dynamics and working with children and families. As an LGBTQIA+ affirming therapist fluent in American Sign Language, I’m here to provide inclusive and compassionate care. I support clients dealing with anxiety, depression, social challenges, and life transitions with quality, personalized therapy. My goal is to empower you to overcome challenges and lead the fulfilling life you deserve.
Have you been feeling lost or unsure of yourself? Do you feel like you’re drifting through life with little meaning or purpose? Look no further. I specialize in enhancing self-esteem and identity. I also specialize in polyamory/ENM relationship dynamics and working with children and families. As an LGBTQIA+ affirming therapist fluent in American Sign Language, I’m here to provide inclusive and compassionate care. I support clients dealing with anxiety, depression, social challenges, and life transitions with quality, personalized therapy. My goal is to empower you to overcome challenges and lead the fulfilling life you deserve.
(602) 362-6739 View (602) 362-6739
Photo of Brianna Barrasso, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, ITP
Brianna Barrasso
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, ITP
Mesa, AZ 85206
I offer safe, compassionate healing and coaching services. I am a licensed therapist but work as an Integrative Somatic Practitioner. I coach to assist in trauma healing and boundaries. I also offer sound healing, spiritual and religious support, coming home to your body, can add children & family into your healing journey, mental health/SA/ED/PA experienced
I offer safe, compassionate healing and coaching services. I am a licensed therapist but work as an Integrative Somatic Practitioner. I coach to assist in trauma healing and boundaries. I also offer sound healing, spiritual and religious support, coming home to your body, can add children & family into your healing journey, mental health/SA/ED/PA experienced
(602) 644-1442 View (602) 644-1442

See more therapy options for Tucson

Dance Movement Therapy

What can I expect from dance/movement therapy?

During dance therapy, the therapist will guide the client through dance movements that metaphorically represent a particular challenge, reflect their internal emotional state, or otherwise express physically what is happening for the client mentally. The therapist may “mirror” the client’s movements or simply observe. The client may be encouraged, as they dance, to pay attention to their breath or other physical sensations. Afterward, the therapist and client will often debrief to help the client process the experience.

Is dance/movement therapy evidence-based?

A small body of research has found that dance therapy can help treat conditions like depression, PTSD, anxiety, and eating disorders, as well as nonclinical issues like low self-esteem or family conflict. However, some experts caution that the evidence in favor of dance therapy is not as robust as that of other, more established therapies, and some of the published research is of low quality. Many recommend that dance therapy be used as a complementary rather than stand-alone treatment.

Can dance therapy help with depression?

Some research suggests that dance/movement therapy can aid in the treatment of depression, especially when combined with other therapies; some studies, for example, report that dance therapy combined with antidepressants or talk therapy is more effective than those treatments alone. The positive effects of dance therapy may come from the movement itself, as it’s well-known that physical activity can improve mood and bolster motivation in those struggling with depression.

What are the limitations of dance therapy?

People with disabilities or other conditions that hinder movement may find it more challenging to participate in dance therapy, though a well-trained therapist will take a client’s physical limitations into account when designing a treatment plan. Experts also warn that certain conditions, particularly eating disorders, should never be treated with dance therapy alone; it may, however, be used as an adjunct therapy.