Dance Movement Therapy in Compton, CA

Photo of Compassionate Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapist in Compton, CA
Compassionate Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
Compton, CA 90221  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Do you need someone to listen & care genuinely about you & your life without judgment. Families and life transitions can be difficult to navigate especially with divorce, blending families, adolescents with challenging behavior, aging parents, & death; compounded with financial, medical, educational, spiritual, relational, and identity decisions can be overwhelming. Depression and anxiety can cause additional relational & health concerns, with out support it can lead to additional mental health issues. I'm here to build a relationship of trust and compassion which will help you find the inner strength to battle life stresses.
Do you need someone to listen & care genuinely about you & your life without judgment. Families and life transitions can be difficult to navigate especially with divorce, blending families, adolescents with challenging behavior, aging parents, & death; compounded with financial, medical, educational, spiritual, relational, and identity decisions can be overwhelming. Depression and anxiety can cause additional relational & health concerns, with out support it can lead to additional mental health issues. I'm here to build a relationship of trust and compassion which will help you find the inner strength to battle life stresses.
(424) 234-2764 View (424) 234-2764

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Farah Masoumi, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Compton, CA
Farah Masoumi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90807
I have been working with individuals, teens, couples, and families for over 20 years and am certified on Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), Family Functional Therapy (FFT) which is a clinical model for working with at risk adolescents and their families, Mindfulness Meditation Teacher Certification Program.
Everyone in their journey to become whole will get stuck sometimes. By providing a caring, empathic, and person-centered approach, I will help you build skills and strategies to enhance the quality of your life and deepen its meaning. I incorporate a strength-based and solution focused approach which has proven to be effective in helping individuals gain insight into their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. I will teach you self-love and acceptance instead of being harsh on yourself when you experience great pain. You will learn stress management techniques such as mindfulness and cognitive restructuring to reduce your symptoms.
I have been working with individuals, teens, couples, and families for over 20 years and am certified on Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), Family Functional Therapy (FFT) which is a clinical model for working with at risk adolescents and their families, Mindfulness Meditation Teacher Certification Program.
Everyone in their journey to become whole will get stuck sometimes. By providing a caring, empathic, and person-centered approach, I will help you build skills and strategies to enhance the quality of your life and deepen its meaning. I incorporate a strength-based and solution focused approach which has proven to be effective in helping individuals gain insight into their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. I will teach you self-love and acceptance instead of being harsh on yourself when you experience great pain. You will learn stress management techniques such as mindfulness and cognitive restructuring to reduce your symptoms.
(562) 376-5655 View (562) 376-5655
Photo of Ryja (Rylan Jay) Testa, Psychologist in Compton, CA
Ryja (Rylan Jay) Testa
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90745
I personalize treatment for you, using a combination of insight oriented work, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, guided meditation, dream work, forest therapy, hypnotherapy, art, movement, and music therapies.
Serving Oregon & California. Are you contemplating or working through a major change, transition, or transformation? This could mean a shift in work, relationship, gender or sexual identity, spiritual perspective, health status, or a recent loss. When we are thrust into the unknown, finding a new way forward can feel confusing, overwhelming, scary, or uncertain. You might be unsure of what to do next, worry you have lost your way, or find it hard to trust you will land on your feet again. I specialize in working with people navigating major change. I walk alongside you in the mystery until you find your way to the other shore
I personalize treatment for you, using a combination of insight oriented work, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, guided meditation, dream work, forest therapy, hypnotherapy, art, movement, and music therapies.
Serving Oregon & California. Are you contemplating or working through a major change, transition, or transformation? This could mean a shift in work, relationship, gender or sexual identity, spiritual perspective, health status, or a recent loss. When we are thrust into the unknown, finding a new way forward can feel confusing, overwhelming, scary, or uncertain. You might be unsure of what to do next, worry you have lost your way, or find it hard to trust you will land on your feet again. I specialize in working with people navigating major change. I walk alongside you in the mystery until you find your way to the other shore
(707) 243-3293 View (707) 243-3293
Photo of Jas Tilghman, Psychologist in Compton, CA
Jas Tilghman
Psychologist, MEd, PhD
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90814
Be True To You! I’m a generalist psychologist working with a lot of different concerns with a special niche in working with creative performers and entertainers! Are you a passionate, creative, business-minded, diligent, performer, entrepreneur, or want to explore your identity and potential to be more? True To You Psychotherapy & Consulting provides services for performers including those who are or aspiring to be entertainers, executives, athletes, first-responders, performers, etc. Services include individual, couples or group therapy and consulting, workshops, team building, life coaching, and movement therapy.
Be True To You! I’m a generalist psychologist working with a lot of different concerns with a special niche in working with creative performers and entertainers! Are you a passionate, creative, business-minded, diligent, performer, entrepreneur, or want to explore your identity and potential to be more? True To You Psychotherapy & Consulting provides services for performers including those who are or aspiring to be entertainers, executives, athletes, first-responders, performers, etc. Services include individual, couples or group therapy and consulting, workshops, team building, life coaching, and movement therapy.
(323) 918-4766 View (323) 918-4766
Photo of Kristen Crowe - Open Space Therapy Collective, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Compton, CA
Kristen Crowe - Open Space Therapy Collective
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, BC-DMT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90804
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.
You deserve to feel good in your body. You deserve relationships that contribute to your well-being- not detract from it. You deserve to enjoy healthy expressions of your sexuality. But due to societal pressures and less-than-helpful toxic norms and legacies, these are areas where many people struggle. As a sex-positive, anti-racist, queer & trans-knowledgeable therapist, I’m here to provide non-judgemental support. In therapy, you’ll learn gentle tools to help you love and accept your body, manage your stress, elevate your mood, and improve your relationships.
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.
You deserve to feel good in your body. You deserve relationships that contribute to your well-being- not detract from it. You deserve to enjoy healthy expressions of your sexuality. But due to societal pressures and less-than-helpful toxic norms and legacies, these are areas where many people struggle. As a sex-positive, anti-racist, queer & trans-knowledgeable therapist, I’m here to provide non-judgemental support. In therapy, you’ll learn gentle tools to help you love and accept your body, manage your stress, elevate your mood, and improve your relationships.
(818) 696-4274 View (818) 696-4274
Photo of Nicole Alyssa Morse, Pre-Licensed Professional in Compton, CA
Nicole Alyssa Morse
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90001
My therapeutic approach is integrative and holistic, combining: Depth Psychology, Somatic Experiencing, Attachment Theory, Dance and Movement Therapy and Women’s Spirituality.
Do you struggle with emotional eating? My specialization is in women's issues. I take a somatic approach, viewing the body as an incredible resource for uncovering insight, information and healing. I believe the body is an incredible avenue that guides us to know ourselves more deeply. In my practice, I specialize in supporting teens, young adults and Women in the recovery of emotional eating and body image. I hold a warm and compassionate space for the therapeutic journey. Alongside individual therapy, I am a holistic health coach. I lead a virtual online course for Women struggling with emotional eating and negative body image.
My therapeutic approach is integrative and holistic, combining: Depth Psychology, Somatic Experiencing, Attachment Theory, Dance and Movement Therapy and Women’s Spirituality.
Do you struggle with emotional eating? My specialization is in women's issues. I take a somatic approach, viewing the body as an incredible resource for uncovering insight, information and healing. I believe the body is an incredible avenue that guides us to know ourselves more deeply. In my practice, I specialize in supporting teens, young adults and Women in the recovery of emotional eating and body image. I hold a warm and compassionate space for the therapeutic journey. Alongside individual therapy, I am a holistic health coach. I lead a virtual online course for Women struggling with emotional eating and negative body image.
(401) 283-1655 View (401) 283-1655
Photo of Prescilla John, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Compton, CA
Prescilla John
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90813
She is an integrative clinician who uses cognitive behavioral and psycho-dynamic approaches, in addition to mind-body-based techniques such as mindfulness, dance, yoga, and reiki, to support holistic healing.
Are you showing up in the world as your best self? If not, know that therapy is a safe space to foster your evolution and help you shine at your maximum potential. Prescilla John is a holistic energy healer and natural-born spiritual medium trained in EMDR, DMT, DBT, CBT, VRET, reiki, and other mindfulness-based interventions, most passionate about working with those exposed to childhood and generational trauma. She is licensed in California (110503) and New York (088933).
She is an integrative clinician who uses cognitive behavioral and psycho-dynamic approaches, in addition to mind-body-based techniques such as mindfulness, dance, yoga, and reiki, to support holistic healing.
Are you showing up in the world as your best self? If not, know that therapy is a safe space to foster your evolution and help you shine at your maximum potential. Prescilla John is a holistic energy healer and natural-born spiritual medium trained in EMDR, DMT, DBT, CBT, VRET, reiki, and other mindfulness-based interventions, most passionate about working with those exposed to childhood and generational trauma. She is licensed in California (110503) and New York (088933).
(562) 539-2891 View (562) 539-2891
Photo of Morgan Fleming, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern in Compton, CA
Morgan Fleming
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Verified Verified
Manhattan Beach, CA 90266
In my sessions, I also love the use of image and movement to access and communicate emotions that might be difficult to verbalize.
If you are suffering— you are not alone. And you deserve to be held until you can hold yourself. I will provide a safe space to be heard and explore your depths during life's challenging moments. I believe by slowing down to explore our symptoms and difficulties in the therapeutic container we can change our relationship to these challenges, to ourselves, and others. I have a particular interest in supporting people suffering during life transitions (career changes, moves, marriage) as well as relationship anxiety.
In my sessions, I also love the use of image and movement to access and communicate emotions that might be difficult to verbalize.
If you are suffering— you are not alone. And you deserve to be held until you can hold yourself. I will provide a safe space to be heard and explore your depths during life's challenging moments. I believe by slowing down to explore our symptoms and difficulties in the therapeutic container we can change our relationship to these challenges, to ourselves, and others. I have a particular interest in supporting people suffering during life transitions (career changes, moves, marriage) as well as relationship anxiety.
(310) 935-4708 View (310) 935-4708
Photo of Melissa Olmedo, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Compton, CA
Melissa Olmedo
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, R-DMT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90807
I am also a dance movement therapist and I consider integrating various movement practices, mindfulness, and expressive arts to best help you come back to yourself or discover your authentic self.
We are living in a fast-moving world that can affect our ability to manage anxiety, depression, and stress. In this era of digital communication, you may find yourself feeling disconnected from your body while interacting in real life. If you feel you have lost touch with the emotional, physical, and social parts of yourself, I am here to help you on the path to becoming your best self. I hope I can guide you to connect to your spirit and soul and find new outlets of healthy expression and heal from past traumas. I approach therapy through the mind and body connection and focus on your strengths and gifts.
I am also a dance movement therapist and I consider integrating various movement practices, mindfulness, and expressive arts to best help you come back to yourself or discover your authentic self.
We are living in a fast-moving world that can affect our ability to manage anxiety, depression, and stress. In this era of digital communication, you may find yourself feeling disconnected from your body while interacting in real life. If you feel you have lost touch with the emotional, physical, and social parts of yourself, I am here to help you on the path to becoming your best self. I hope I can guide you to connect to your spirit and soul and find new outlets of healthy expression and heal from past traumas. I approach therapy through the mind and body connection and focus on your strengths and gifts.
(562) 991-6353 View (562) 991-6353
Photo of Kimberly Fouche, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Compton, CA
Kimberly Fouche
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90037
I work with many different tools that can include music, movement, and storytelling.
I have had life experience in dealing with trauma which guided me to become engaged in the field of psychology, for the past 11 years. In the journey of healing my own trauma I was drawn into the field of psychotherapy-I can serve as a guide to return you to balance Through my own work with psychedelic medicines I have gained a great deal of knowledge of how the mind is impacted by the stories that we tell ourselves. These stories can cause anxiety and depression that affect the whole person: psycho-spiritually, physically, and mentally.
I work with many different tools that can include music, movement, and storytelling.
I have had life experience in dealing with trauma which guided me to become engaged in the field of psychology, for the past 11 years. In the journey of healing my own trauma I was drawn into the field of psychotherapy-I can serve as a guide to return you to balance Through my own work with psychedelic medicines I have gained a great deal of knowledge of how the mind is impacted by the stories that we tell ourselves. These stories can cause anxiety and depression that affect the whole person: psycho-spiritually, physically, and mentally.
(213) 460-5664 View (213) 460-5664
Photo of Anna Olinova, Associate Professional Clinical Counselor in Compton, CA
Anna Olinova
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, APCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90803
Beyond talk therapy alone, I also work with the arts (visual art, music, movement) and somatic (body-based) processes to clarify your inner wisdom.
Perhaps you are at a point where something has got to change! You realized that your experience of life can be more full, but you’re not quite sure how to make that happen. You got on Psych Today and despite the doubt, you had a small twinkle of hope that believes that something different… something better is possible for you! As a therapist, I am your partner in growing that small spark into the blazing flame that you have deep inside you. Whether you are living with depression, anxiety, or trauma, I would be honored to support you in expanding your self-confidence and sense of connection and aliveness.
Beyond talk therapy alone, I also work with the arts (visual art, music, movement) and somatic (body-based) processes to clarify your inner wisdom.
Perhaps you are at a point where something has got to change! You realized that your experience of life can be more full, but you’re not quite sure how to make that happen. You got on Psych Today and despite the doubt, you had a small twinkle of hope that believes that something different… something better is possible for you! As a therapist, I am your partner in growing that small spark into the blazing flame that you have deep inside you. Whether you are living with depression, anxiety, or trauma, I would be honored to support you in expanding your self-confidence and sense of connection and aliveness.
(949) 978-0357 View (949) 978-0357
Photo of Gina Rossi Clinical Psychotherapist, Marriage & Family Therapist in Compton, CA
Gina Rossi Clinical Psychotherapist
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
Redondo Beach, CA 90278
We have all experienced a shift in our "normal" lives; our usual way of being during the past few years. We are looking at our world, our society, our friends, family and ourselves and nothing is as it once was. During these extraordinary times, you may be questioning what life is about; the meaning of it all. You are not alone, my friends. Many of us are experiencing anxiety, as our once familiar "normal" has shifted to a new "normal". I understand this and you. We can work through this together.
We have all experienced a shift in our "normal" lives; our usual way of being during the past few years. We are looking at our world, our society, our friends, family and ourselves and nothing is as it once was. During these extraordinary times, you may be questioning what life is about; the meaning of it all. You are not alone, my friends. Many of us are experiencing anxiety, as our once familiar "normal" has shifted to a new "normal". I understand this and you. We can work through this together.
(424) 370-0596 View (424) 370-0596
Photo of Liliana Perez, Marriage & Family Therapist in Compton, CA
Liliana Perez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90003
Hello, My name is Liliana Perez, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and a former teacher. I graduated from Pepperdine University, and completed my internship and training in South Central Los Angeles. Thereafter, I opened my own private practice and currently offer Telehealth therapeutic services. I am a solution focused therapist, with an eclectic style that draws from; Humanistic, Behavioral, Cognitive, and Spiritual schools of thought.
Hello, My name is Liliana Perez, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and a former teacher. I graduated from Pepperdine University, and completed my internship and training in South Central Los Angeles. Thereafter, I opened my own private practice and currently offer Telehealth therapeutic services. I am a solution focused therapist, with an eclectic style that draws from; Humanistic, Behavioral, Cognitive, and Spiritual schools of thought.
(323) 948-8832 View (323) 948-8832
Cleo Young
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90505
Waitlist for new clients
I am pleased to announce joining The Effective Therapy Group. My practice includes kids (4+), as well as couples, and individuals. My work with individuals includes anxiety, PTSD (trauma), abuse, depression, grief, and life’s transitions. Transitions that include moving, divorce, change in health, and recovering from the past year’s health crisis, as well as being an addictions specialist.
I am pleased to announce joining The Effective Therapy Group. My practice includes kids (4+), as well as couples, and individuals. My work with individuals includes anxiety, PTSD (trauma), abuse, depression, grief, and life’s transitions. Transitions that include moving, divorce, change in health, and recovering from the past year’s health crisis, as well as being an addictions specialist.
(424) 399-5480 View (424) 399-5480
Photo of Keisha C. White, Psychologist in Compton, CA
Keisha C. White
Psychologist, MA, PD, PsyD
Verified Verified
Gardena, CA 90248  (Online Only)
My clients usually approach me when they are ready to make a change in their lives. They are experiencing conflicts, inside themselves or with others, and are looking for an empathic, flexible and dynamic clinician to provide support and guidance. Hello, I am Dr. Keisha C. White, a Clinical and School Psychologist in private practice (virtual/telehealth therapy) at KCW Psychological Services. My work has focused on helping individuals with anxiety, stress, trauma, depression, self-esteem, interpersonal relationships (family, platonic, romantic), work-life balance, and life transitions.
My clients usually approach me when they are ready to make a change in their lives. They are experiencing conflicts, inside themselves or with others, and are looking for an empathic, flexible and dynamic clinician to provide support and guidance. Hello, I am Dr. Keisha C. White, a Clinical and School Psychologist in private practice (virtual/telehealth therapy) at KCW Psychological Services. My work has focused on helping individuals with anxiety, stress, trauma, depression, self-esteem, interpersonal relationships (family, platonic, romantic), work-life balance, and life transitions.
(424) 340-5884 View (424) 340-5884
Photo of Maria Baldasseroni, Marriage & Family Therapist in Compton, CA
Maria Baldasseroni
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Huntington Park, CA 90255
Hello, my name is Maria Baldasseroni, I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist practicing in the state of California. I see the journey taken in psychotherapy as one of the most important journeys one can take for self-discovery and sense of self-empowerment. I also firmly believe that the first step toward creating a healthy environment that nourishes healthy relationships starts with the ability to look within and create a safe space where to practice self-compassion and self-love.
Hello, my name is Maria Baldasseroni, I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist practicing in the state of California. I see the journey taken in psychotherapy as one of the most important journeys one can take for self-discovery and sense of self-empowerment. I also firmly believe that the first step toward creating a healthy environment that nourishes healthy relationships starts with the ability to look within and create a safe space where to practice self-compassion and self-love.
(323) 274-1605 View (323) 274-1605
Photo of Jennifer C Cohen, Marriage & Family Therapist in Compton, CA
Jennifer C Cohen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MACL, LMFT, C-IAYT, RYT 500
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90802  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My general frame work is that you cannot separate the body from the mind nor can you separate a person from their life time of experiences, therefore working with all of these systems is a highly effective way to improve happiness, decrease anxiety and stress, and increase coping skills to manage life with more ease and improved relationships. Now offering emergency Intensive Couples Counseling! I work well with individuals and couples who are seeking to learn more holistic ways to address their emotional and relational challenges whether they be family of origin issues, trauma, chronic illness, anxiety, or depression.
My general frame work is that you cannot separate the body from the mind nor can you separate a person from their life time of experiences, therefore working with all of these systems is a highly effective way to improve happiness, decrease anxiety and stress, and increase coping skills to manage life with more ease and improved relationships. Now offering emergency Intensive Couples Counseling! I work well with individuals and couples who are seeking to learn more holistic ways to address their emotional and relational challenges whether they be family of origin issues, trauma, chronic illness, anxiety, or depression.
(562) 454-0709 View (562) 454-0709
Photo of Robenson Dorvil, Pre-Licensed Professional in Compton, CA
Robenson Dorvil
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, AMFT128
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90043
Mr. Robenson Dorvil is a doctoral student who practices individual and family therapy under his supervisors for almost 2 years, specializing working with children and adolescents. He currently attend the Chicago School of Professional Psychology and works with Outreach Concern to provide school-based, counseling, and support services for many children in elementary, middle, and high school in the areas of Southern California. He works closely with his supervisors to provide support and treatment in developing behavior performance management for children in academic, social, emotional and other personal issues. He is diligent, great listener, and patient in working with clients.
Mr. Robenson Dorvil is a doctoral student who practices individual and family therapy under his supervisors for almost 2 years, specializing working with children and adolescents. He currently attend the Chicago School of Professional Psychology and works with Outreach Concern to provide school-based, counseling, and support services for many children in elementary, middle, and high school in the areas of Southern California. He works closely with his supervisors to provide support and treatment in developing behavior performance management for children in academic, social, emotional and other personal issues. He is diligent, great listener, and patient in working with clients.
(818) 403-3193 View (818) 403-3193
Photo of Colleen Krinard, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Compton, CA
Colleen Krinard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90813
Hi my name is Colleen Krinard, LCSW, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker psychotherapist. My approach to therapy is one of partnering with you on your learning wellness journey. My goal is to meet you in your learning style and support you in making meaning out of what is unfolding in your life, to learn and practice skills and tools together, and assist you to form a deeper connection with yourself. My primary focus is working with adult women's issues including anxiety, depression, empowerment, codependency and trauma, with a sensitivity for how these are playing out in your everyday life experiences.
Hi my name is Colleen Krinard, LCSW, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker psychotherapist. My approach to therapy is one of partnering with you on your learning wellness journey. My goal is to meet you in your learning style and support you in making meaning out of what is unfolding in your life, to learn and practice skills and tools together, and assist you to form a deeper connection with yourself. My primary focus is working with adult women's issues including anxiety, depression, empowerment, codependency and trauma, with a sensitivity for how these are playing out in your everyday life experiences.
(916) 299-6343 View (916) 299-6343
Photo of Amelia C Hall, Marriage & Family Therapist in Compton, CA
Amelia C Hall
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90011
Coming home to yourself is a daily practice that can feel out of reach when life gets in the way. Maybe you are overwhelmed, not yet where you want to be, or stuck in old patterns. Every day feels like a struggle to balance your unending to-do list with boundaries and putting yourself first. You deserve to feel fulfilled in your relationships, especially the one with yourself. As symptoms speak to your soul, we work with the mind-body connection to unlock your inner wisdom, shed the weight of the past, and create a vibrant life full with purpose.
Coming home to yourself is a daily practice that can feel out of reach when life gets in the way. Maybe you are overwhelmed, not yet where you want to be, or stuck in old patterns. Every day feels like a struggle to balance your unending to-do list with boundaries and putting yourself first. You deserve to feel fulfilled in your relationships, especially the one with yourself. As symptoms speak to your soul, we work with the mind-body connection to unlock your inner wisdom, shed the weight of the past, and create a vibrant life full with purpose.
(562) 469-5143 View (562) 469-5143

See more therapy options for Compton

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.