Dance Movement Therapy in Upland, CA

(Mysti) Michelle Pruett
Pastoral Counselor, PhD, MA, MMsc, BA, BMsc
Verified Verified
Upland, CA 91784
Waitlist for new clients
My ideal client is one who has a metaphysical world view or has an interest in Jungian Analysis / Depth Work / Dream Analysis / Alchemy / Mysticism/ Faith Based paradigms and would like guidance in discerning their personal experiences with synchronicity, dreamscape, archetypal relationship dynamics, metaphysics, or other aspects of their unique individuation journey. I tend to work with artists, teachers, students, writers, musicians, and other mental health providers who are seeking a psycho-spiritual lens that is tempered by a blending of metaphysics and science so that protocols stay evidence based and backed by research.
My ideal client is one who has a metaphysical world view or has an interest in Jungian Analysis / Depth Work / Dream Analysis / Alchemy / Mysticism/ Faith Based paradigms and would like guidance in discerning their personal experiences with synchronicity, dreamscape, archetypal relationship dynamics, metaphysics, or other aspects of their unique individuation journey. I tend to work with artists, teachers, students, writers, musicians, and other mental health providers who are seeking a psycho-spiritual lens that is tempered by a blending of metaphysics and science so that protocols stay evidence based and backed by research.

I am Dr. Kymberli Boynton, Psy.D/LMFT/LCSW, and I possess a strong dedication to assisting individuals, couples, youth, and adolescents in conquering obstacles rooted in negative past experiences. The work of providing support and guidance to aid individuals in their healing process and their journey towards positivity is profoundly meaningful. Each person's path is unique, and I aim to provide a secure and nonjudgmental environment where they can freely express their emotions and address their challenges, ultimately making a profound impact on their lives.
I am Dr. Kymberli Boynton, Psy.D/LMFT/LCSW, and I possess a strong dedication to assisting individuals, couples, youth, and adolescents in conquering obstacles rooted in negative past experiences. The work of providing support and guidance to aid individuals in their healing process and their journey towards positivity is profoundly meaningful. Each person's path is unique, and I aim to provide a secure and nonjudgmental environment where they can freely express their emotions and address their challenges, ultimately making a profound impact on their lives.
More Therapists Nearby

Zamira Pla
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Arrowhead, CA 92352
To explore your path and goals I use creative approaches/methods that include expressive arts (visual arts, music, dance/ movement, writing, storytelling, and theater), sound therapy, embodiment coaching and yoga, Jungian techniques, sandtray and play therapy.
Many of us come to therapy because we are experiencing symptoms, feelings or circumstances that we want to change. Only to discover that there might be deeper things that we desire, that the symptoms are only the surface. We discover that we want to find our purpose or calling, that we want freedom from expectations, freedom from fears. We are seeking meaningful and honest relationships. We wish to communicate efficiently. We crave inspiration, imagination, creativity, and clarity. We long to move forward, wherever that place is. We want to expand and feel the infinity that we are and explore all possibilities in our lives.
To explore your path and goals I use creative approaches/methods that include expressive arts (visual arts, music, dance/ movement, writing, storytelling, and theater), sound therapy, embodiment coaching and yoga, Jungian techniques, sandtray and play therapy.
Many of us come to therapy because we are experiencing symptoms, feelings or circumstances that we want to change. Only to discover that there might be deeper things that we desire, that the symptoms are only the surface. We discover that we want to find our purpose or calling, that we want freedom from expectations, freedom from fears. We are seeking meaningful and honest relationships. We wish to communicate efficiently. We crave inspiration, imagination, creativity, and clarity. We long to move forward, wherever that place is. We want to expand and feel the infinity that we are and explore all possibilities in our lives.

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a psychotherapy approach that has been used to help individuals process and overcome traumatic experiences.
I am licensed in California with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with anxiety, stress, depression, trauma, abuse, grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support and empower you in that journey.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a psychotherapy approach that has been used to help individuals process and overcome traumatic experiences.
I am licensed in California with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with anxiety, stress, depression, trauma, abuse, grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support and empower you in that journey.

For adult clients, I provide 'Pause and Reflect Coaching' service that through dialogue and creative means, (i.e. dance/ movement, role play etc), I facilitate opportunities for you to listen to your heart and make new decisions towards finding meaning in your next chapter in life.
I provide Child Life service to children who are sick or whose family member is sick and Pause and Reflect coaching for adult clients who would like to take this opportunity to explore different options in life especially after a significant life event, ie. being sick or passing of a loved one.
For adult clients, I provide 'Pause and Reflect Coaching' service that through dialogue and creative means, (i.e. dance/ movement, role play etc), I facilitate opportunities for you to listen to your heart and make new decisions towards finding meaning in your next chapter in life.
I provide Child Life service to children who are sick or whose family member is sick and Pause and Reflect coaching for adult clients who would like to take this opportunity to explore different options in life especially after a significant life event, ie. being sick or passing of a loved one.

Anne Marie Elena Ruta Buchanan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, BC-DMT, LPCC, NCC
Verified Verified
Tustin, CA 92780
I consider issues from Rogerian, psychoanalytic perspectives, and theory from dance/ movement therapy.
The degree of pain you are in from death and loss is so very hard. Your body is sick with despair; stomach and headaches, difficulty eating, sleeping, reading and focusing. Anxiety about your future is overwhelming. Doing daily activities like getting up and dressed is so effortful and takes so much longer. Your concentration is gone, you can't think straight. Recurrent thoughts of the death or loss are incessant. Feelings of guilt come in and you find yourself irritable, anxious, angry, sad, hopeless. You avoid places, activities; so exhausted. The suffering at times feels unbearable and you wonder if you will ever feel better.
I consider issues from Rogerian, psychoanalytic perspectives, and theory from dance/ movement therapy.
The degree of pain you are in from death and loss is so very hard. Your body is sick with despair; stomach and headaches, difficulty eating, sleeping, reading and focusing. Anxiety about your future is overwhelming. Doing daily activities like getting up and dressed is so effortful and takes so much longer. Your concentration is gone, you can't think straight. Recurrent thoughts of the death or loss are incessant. Feelings of guilt come in and you find yourself irritable, anxious, angry, sad, hopeless. You avoid places, activities; so exhausted. The suffering at times feels unbearable and you wonder if you will ever feel better.

Arasha Alcaraz
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, R-DMT
Verified Verified
Santa Ana, CA 92701
Waitlist for new clients
I provide trauma-informed, social-justice-oriented practices and use existential, humanistic, psychodynamic, CBT, and dance movement therapy modalities.
Healing is not linear, but you don’t have to go through it alone. I understand that therapy can be a difficult place for expression and a process that takes time and patience. I offer a warm and non-judgmental environment where you can explore your unique experiences and perspectives. I aim to provide a safe space to help you explore emotions, thoughts, and difficulties. I help you create a solid foundation for the therapeutic process, establish trust, and prompt your autonomy as you take an active role in your healing process.
I provide trauma-informed, social-justice-oriented practices and use existential, humanistic, psychodynamic, CBT, and dance movement therapy modalities.
Healing is not linear, but you don’t have to go through it alone. I understand that therapy can be a difficult place for expression and a process that takes time and patience. I offer a warm and non-judgmental environment where you can explore your unique experiences and perspectives. I aim to provide a safe space to help you explore emotions, thoughts, and difficulties. I help you create a solid foundation for the therapeutic process, establish trust, and prompt your autonomy as you take an active role in your healing process.

I'm a trauma-informed therapist who is comfortable integrating mindfulness and movement (trauma-informed dance or yoga) into my practice.
Have you ever been told you're "too much"? Too emotional, too intense, too complicated? If so, you're in the right place. I work with people who feel deeply, who have survived complex trauma, and who are ready to reclaim their power. I specialize in supporting women, AAPI, and LGBTQ+ individuals and couples navigating CPTSD, neurodivergence, identity exploration, and healing from past wounds. My approach is affirming of non-monogamy and kink, and I integrate somatic interventions with talk therapy to help you strengthen your mind-body connection, process trauma, and build resilience.
I'm a trauma-informed therapist who is comfortable integrating mindfulness and movement (trauma-informed dance or yoga) into my practice.
Have you ever been told you're "too much"? Too emotional, too intense, too complicated? If so, you're in the right place. I work with people who feel deeply, who have survived complex trauma, and who are ready to reclaim their power. I specialize in supporting women, AAPI, and LGBTQ+ individuals and couples navigating CPTSD, neurodivergence, identity exploration, and healing from past wounds. My approach is affirming of non-monogamy and kink, and I integrate somatic interventions with talk therapy to help you strengthen your mind-body connection, process trauma, and build resilience.

Specializing in a holistic approach to mental health and wellness. How can we talk about what matters, if talking is too painful? Mindfulness-based movement and expression therapy can help first regulate and calm the nervous system before diving into the analytical work. This makes the process not only more comfortable for you but also more effective. I understand the importance of listening to your own experience first, you already know the answers, I’m just here to guide you to them.
Specializing in a holistic approach to mental health and wellness. How can we talk about what matters, if talking is too painful? Mindfulness-based movement and expression therapy can help first regulate and calm the nervous system before diving into the analytical work. This makes the process not only more comfortable for you but also more effective. I understand the importance of listening to your own experience first, you already know the answers, I’m just here to guide you to them.

Stella Lee McKenzie
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tustin, CA 92780
I employ a variety of approaches including Somatic Therapy and Dance/ Movement Therapy, where I explore how trauma manifests and is stored in the body.
In my work with kiddos, I've found that they cannot articulate their trauma verbally. Instead, they express their inner world through art, play, and dance/ movement therapy. Through these modalities, I can unravel the stories they struggle to tell verbally.
I employ a variety of approaches including Somatic Therapy and Dance/ Movement Therapy, where I explore how trauma manifests and is stored in the body.
In my work with kiddos, I've found that they cannot articulate their trauma verbally. Instead, they express their inner world through art, play, and dance/ movement therapy. Through these modalities, I can unravel the stories they struggle to tell verbally.

Through a warm, compassionate, and creative approach, I can guide you toward a more balanced relationship with food, movement, and your body.
Hi there! Have you been battling with your body? Struggling with anxiety or feeling like you don't quite fit in? As a therapist who specializes in eating disorders, body image, anxiety, depression, and neurodiversity, I am here to help guide and support you on your healing adventure to bring back joy, self-acceptance, and peace with food and your body. I work with individuals who are ready to break free from the feelings of dread during mealtimes, self-hatred, and the constant pressure to "fit in." I believe that healing is an adventure that will have ups and downs, and it will take time, but it is possible to get there.
Through a warm, compassionate, and creative approach, I can guide you toward a more balanced relationship with food, movement, and your body.
Hi there! Have you been battling with your body? Struggling with anxiety or feeling like you don't quite fit in? As a therapist who specializes in eating disorders, body image, anxiety, depression, and neurodiversity, I am here to help guide and support you on your healing adventure to bring back joy, self-acceptance, and peace with food and your body. I work with individuals who are ready to break free from the feelings of dread during mealtimes, self-hatred, and the constant pressure to "fit in." I believe that healing is an adventure that will have ups and downs, and it will take time, but it is possible to get there.

I am devoted to using Dance/ Movement Therapy (DMT) in conjunction with other expressive and integrative therapies, to promote healing and positive self-transformation to overcome and manage trauma, anxiety, depression, eating disorders and other challenges.
Hi im Melissa! I have worked with adolescents and individuals with special needs in partial hospitalization and intensive outpatient programs, in the areas of trauma, anxiety, depression, and eating disorders, most of which included dual diagnoses. I have also worked in residential care and treatment for those 18+ who sought relief and recovery from mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, trauma, complicated grief, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, psychosis, and co-occurring disorders of substance misuse, disordered eating, gaming, and social media addictions.
I am devoted to using Dance/ Movement Therapy (DMT) in conjunction with other expressive and integrative therapies, to promote healing and positive self-transformation to overcome and manage trauma, anxiety, depression, eating disorders and other challenges.
Hi im Melissa! I have worked with adolescents and individuals with special needs in partial hospitalization and intensive outpatient programs, in the areas of trauma, anxiety, depression, and eating disorders, most of which included dual diagnoses. I have also worked in residential care and treatment for those 18+ who sought relief and recovery from mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, trauma, complicated grief, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, psychosis, and co-occurring disorders of substance misuse, disordered eating, gaming, and social media addictions.

Mental Health and Social Justice Clinic
Psychologist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
West Covina, CA 91790
We want to help you by providing trauma informed yoga, art, and dance therapy.
Our Mental Health and Social Justice Clinic provides psychological evaluations and therapy for children, teenagers, adults, and seniors. We provide individual, couples, group, and family sessions including yoga, mindfulness sessions, and art therapy. We specialize in trauma-informed therapy and our practice provides individual and group therapy services to survivors of human trafficking, domestic violence, and violent crimes. Our licensed and skilled team of therapists is devoted to providing quality services and our social justice team is committed to seeing you thrive in the community.
We want to help you by providing trauma informed yoga, art, and dance therapy.
Our Mental Health and Social Justice Clinic provides psychological evaluations and therapy for children, teenagers, adults, and seniors. We provide individual, couples, group, and family sessions including yoga, mindfulness sessions, and art therapy. We specialize in trauma-informed therapy and our practice provides individual and group therapy services to survivors of human trafficking, domestic violence, and violent crimes. Our licensed and skilled team of therapists is devoted to providing quality services and our social justice team is committed to seeing you thrive in the community.

My style of therapy is rooted in body-based and creative interventions including utilizing Dance/ Movement Therapy, which does not require dancing or a comfort with moving.
Welcome to Feet in the Sand Holistic Therapy! Whether you are seeking therapy for yourself, a child, or your family, this can be a very difficult process, so I honor your wisdom and your steps in your healing journey. With many years of experience, I specialize in working with infants and children, and pregnant and postpartum women. I deeply care about you as a client and my heart is truly in this work.
My style of therapy is rooted in body-based and creative interventions including utilizing Dance/ Movement Therapy, which does not require dancing or a comfort with moving.
Welcome to Feet in the Sand Holistic Therapy! Whether you are seeking therapy for yourself, a child, or your family, this can be a very difficult process, so I honor your wisdom and your steps in your healing journey. With many years of experience, I specialize in working with infants and children, and pregnant and postpartum women. I deeply care about you as a client and my heart is truly in this work.

Kristen Crowe - Open Space Therapy Collective
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, BC-DMT
Verified Verified
Serves Area
As a board-certified dance/ movement therapist and someone who specializes in somatic approaches, I help clients reconnect with their bodies as a pathway to better mental health.
Beyond survival, there's thriving. In a world that often constrains and judges, therapy can be a radical act of self-reclamation. As a sex-positive, anti-racist, queer & trans-knowledgeable therapist of color, I support individuals ready to shed limiting narratives and step into their most authentic selves. Whether you're navigating body image, relationship challenges, sexual identity, or personal growth, I provide a compassionate space where healing isn't just possible—it's powerful. Together, we'll develop transformative strategies that honor your complexity and celebrate your inherent worth.
As a board-certified dance/ movement therapist and someone who specializes in somatic approaches, I help clients reconnect with their bodies as a pathway to better mental health.
Beyond survival, there's thriving. In a world that often constrains and judges, therapy can be a radical act of self-reclamation. As a sex-positive, anti-racist, queer & trans-knowledgeable therapist of color, I support individuals ready to shed limiting narratives and step into their most authentic selves. Whether you're navigating body image, relationship challenges, sexual identity, or personal growth, I provide a compassionate space where healing isn't just possible—it's powerful. Together, we'll develop transformative strategies that honor your complexity and celebrate your inherent worth.

Ashley Fargnoli
Counselor, MA, LCPC, BC-DMT, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
If you have been impacted by trauma, I'll draw on my expertise in body based approaches such as dance/ movement therapy and sensorimotor psychotherapy to help you gently reconnect to your body.
Have you suffered a recent loss or are impacted by painful experiences from your past? Do relentless "what if" thoughts plague your mind, leaving you wondering if OCD is the culprit? Perhaps you've grappled with both, feeling overwhelmed by shame or fear. Maybe you are a helping professional (therapist, doctor, nurse...) and are experiencing burnout from working in intense settings. As a specialist in trauma and OCD, I'm here to provide the support you need. My approach is rooted in collaboration, honoring your strengths and nurturing the connections already within you.
If you have been impacted by trauma, I'll draw on my expertise in body based approaches such as dance/ movement therapy and sensorimotor psychotherapy to help you gently reconnect to your body.
Have you suffered a recent loss or are impacted by painful experiences from your past? Do relentless "what if" thoughts plague your mind, leaving you wondering if OCD is the culprit? Perhaps you've grappled with both, feeling overwhelmed by shame or fear. Maybe you are a helping professional (therapist, doctor, nurse...) and are experiencing burnout from working in intense settings. As a specialist in trauma and OCD, I'm here to provide the support you need. My approach is rooted in collaboration, honoring your strengths and nurturing the connections already within you.

Vahan Oknayan
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Santa Ana, CA 92705
I incorporate aspects of traditional talk therapy, as well as Voice & Movement work, to help clients develop healthy self-expression.
Hi! I'm Vahan Oknayan (Vah•hawn Oak•nye•yawn; sounds like it's spelled) I’m glad you’re taking the first steps to committing time to yourself. We all struggle to varying degrees. Whether your problems seem insurmountable or you just need someone to talk to, your needs are valid. I have an arts background and have an eclectic therapeutic approach. I use a little bit of everything based on what I hear from you. I incorporate mindfulness and physical practices that help foster mind-body connection to alleviate emotional distress and tap into more authentic self. Reach out and see if we fit. I look forward to meeting you!
I incorporate aspects of traditional talk therapy, as well as Voice & Movement work, to help clients develop healthy self-expression.
Hi! I'm Vahan Oknayan (Vah•hawn Oak•nye•yawn; sounds like it's spelled) I’m glad you’re taking the first steps to committing time to yourself. We all struggle to varying degrees. Whether your problems seem insurmountable or you just need someone to talk to, your needs are valid. I have an arts background and have an eclectic therapeutic approach. I use a little bit of everything based on what I hear from you. I incorporate mindfulness and physical practices that help foster mind-body connection to alleviate emotional distress and tap into more authentic self. Reach out and see if we fit. I look forward to meeting you!

In addition to my Registered Nursing licensure, Grief, and Thanatology Certifications, I have a Bachelor of Fine Arts and a background in writing, dance, and theater.
I am currently accepting private clients for individual grief support sessions. I offer a range of support topics including substance-use disorder loss, anticipatory grief related to illness, accident, and substance use, and disenfranchised loss related to murder, suicide, or substance use. In addition, I offer support for other types of loss that may not be recognized by traditional therapies, such as the loss of a pet, job, co-worker, or dear friend. Sessions are ongoing and are offered via phone or Zoom. For Individual sessions, I work on a sliding scale fee. For more information: hearthomeshealingdotgmaildotcom
In addition to my Registered Nursing licensure, Grief, and Thanatology Certifications, I have a Bachelor of Fine Arts and a background in writing, dance, and theater.
I am currently accepting private clients for individual grief support sessions. I offer a range of support topics including substance-use disorder loss, anticipatory grief related to illness, accident, and substance use, and disenfranchised loss related to murder, suicide, or substance use. In addition, I offer support for other types of loss that may not be recognized by traditional therapies, such as the loss of a pet, job, co-worker, or dear friend. Sessions are ongoing and are offered via phone or Zoom. For Individual sessions, I work on a sliding scale fee. For more information: hearthomeshealingdotgmaildotcom

I can provide a space to process, offer alternate points of view for reflection, and collaboratively find solutions to meet support needs.
I can provide a space to process, offer alternate points of view for reflection, and collaboratively find solutions to meet support needs.

My name is Miriam Lamb. I utilize an integrative/holistic approach to therapy. I provide services that engage you logically, emotionally, spiritually (if relevant), and physically. I don't provide a 'one size fits all approach' and utilize many modalities. I have a public health background and believe in the interplay between mind/body/spirit. I utilize CBT, EMDR, Jungian, psychodynamic, art therapy, play therapy, DBT, poetry/music/sound therapy, transpersonal psychology, somatic approaches, and many more. I also work with families and couples.
My name is Miriam Lamb. I utilize an integrative/holistic approach to therapy. I provide services that engage you logically, emotionally, spiritually (if relevant), and physically. I don't provide a 'one size fits all approach' and utilize many modalities. I have a public health background and believe in the interplay between mind/body/spirit. I utilize CBT, EMDR, Jungian, psychodynamic, art therapy, play therapy, DBT, poetry/music/sound therapy, transpersonal psychology, somatic approaches, and many more. I also work with families and couples.
See more therapy options for Upland
Nearby Dance Movement Therapy Searches for Upland
- Anaheim
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- Newport Beach
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- Tustin
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.