Photo of Helaine Harris, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Helaine Harris
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93311
Hello, I'm Helaine Harris, License LMFT15327. I am a spiritually inclined therapist with over 35 years of experience, trained in many modalities, to add another dimension of healing. Clients call me "The Wound Detector," because of my intuitive ability of getting to their core issues & rapidly turning those challenges around. My main client focus is anxiety and depression, getting through past negative experiences, relationships, and life stress. I also work with couples, groups, and children. I am a certified business coach as well. I often work on hypnotherapy and somatic work with clients.
Hello, I'm Helaine Harris, License LMFT15327. I am a spiritually inclined therapist with over 35 years of experience, trained in many modalities, to add another dimension of healing. Clients call me "The Wound Detector," because of my intuitive ability of getting to their core issues & rapidly turning those challenges around. My main client focus is anxiety and depression, getting through past negative experiences, relationships, and life stress. I also work with couples, groups, and children. I am a certified business coach as well. I often work on hypnotherapy and somatic work with clients.
(657) 837-0877 View (657) 837-0877

Online Therapists

Photo of Nicole Alyssa Morse, Pre-Licensed Professional in Kern County, CA
Nicole Alyssa Morse
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93109
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 Therapy By Dassy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Therapy By Dassy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sherman Oaks, CA 91411
By integrating traditional talk therapy, somatic therapy, art, music, movement, and energy healing, I am able to tailor therapy to each individual client, aiding them to integrate their mental, physical, and emotional selves.
No one is meant to walk this journey of life alone and unsupported. Seeking help is a strength and the first step toward creating a life that will provide you with meaning and purpose. I work in partnership with my clients toward the goal of facilitating overall well-being by tapping into each person's potential for personal insight and resiliency and guiding them in accessing the tools to cope with life's challenges. As the daughter of immigrants, a married mother of three children and part of the sandwich generation, I am personally familiar with life's many challenges and her to walk with you on your personal journey.
By integrating traditional talk therapy, somatic therapy, art, music, movement, and energy healing, I am able to tailor therapy to each individual client, aiding them to integrate their mental, physical, and emotional selves.
No one is meant to walk this journey of life alone and unsupported. Seeking help is a strength and the first step toward creating a life that will provide you with meaning and purpose. I work in partnership with my clients toward the goal of facilitating overall well-being by tapping into each person's potential for personal insight and resiliency and guiding them in accessing the tools to cope with life's challenges. As the daughter of immigrants, a married mother of three children and part of the sandwich generation, I am personally familiar with life's many challenges and her to walk with you on your personal journey.
(747) 285-7424 View (747) 285-7424
Photo of Cecelia Gillespie, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Cecelia Gillespie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Porterville, CA 93257
Hello, my name is Cecelia Pooley Gillespie, LCSW, SEP. I work with all ages, with a recent focus on youth and families, including those in rural and Indigenous communities.. I can help with anxiety, depression, PTSD, stress, parenting, life transitions, and more. My therapeutic approach is strengths based and solution focused. While I find the cognitive and behavioral lens of CBT, DBT and Narrative Therapy to be valuable, I believe it can be important at times to also incorporate Experiential Therapy, such as creativity, movement, and expression, as well as Somatic work for exploring the mind-body connection.
Hello, my name is Cecelia Pooley Gillespie, LCSW, SEP. I work with all ages, with a recent focus on youth and families, including those in rural and Indigenous communities.. I can help with anxiety, depression, PTSD, stress, parenting, life transitions, and more. My therapeutic approach is strengths based and solution focused. While I find the cognitive and behavioral lens of CBT, DBT and Narrative Therapy to be valuable, I believe it can be important at times to also incorporate Experiential Therapy, such as creativity, movement, and expression, as well as Somatic work for exploring the mind-body connection.
(559) 380-4114 View (559) 380-4114
Photo of Sara R. van Koningsveld, Counselor in Kern County, CA
Sara R. van Koningsveld
Counselor, MA, LPCC, BC-DMT, GL-CMA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90036  (Online Only)
Beside "talk therapy", I am a Board Certified Dance/Movement Therapist, yoga teacher, and wellness educator.
Life gets difficult. -Our distress may make us uncomfortable, overwhelmed, anxious, angry, sad and/or depressed. -Maybe we experienced a job loss, have to move, had a significant relationship end, or experienced a major shift, change, or transition in our life. -Really, we want to feel "better" and "happier", but how do we get there? Short-term counseling or coaching can help and sometimes we needed to address deeper issues and patterns through psychotherapy. Each of us is different, but maybe you found your way here because you are ready to let go, ready to grow, and ready for something new, different, and better for your life.
Beside "talk therapy", I am a Board Certified Dance/Movement Therapist, yoga teacher, and wellness educator.
Life gets difficult. -Our distress may make us uncomfortable, overwhelmed, anxious, angry, sad and/or depressed. -Maybe we experienced a job loss, have to move, had a significant relationship end, or experienced a major shift, change, or transition in our life. -Really, we want to feel "better" and "happier", but how do we get there? Short-term counseling or coaching can help and sometimes we needed to address deeper issues and patterns through psychotherapy. Each of us is different, but maybe you found your way here because you are ready to let go, ready to grow, and ready for something new, different, and better for your life.
(323) 210-4786 View (323) 210-4786
Photo of High Desert Wellness , Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
High Desert Wellness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Victorville, CA 92395
We use an eclectic therapy approach from traditional cognitive behavioral talk therapies to somatic therapy and movement.
Managing high levels of stress and processing past unresolved trauma/negative emotions (anger, resentment, grief) is critical for our health as stress and anxiety can contribute to a wide array of medical illness, diseases and chronic pain. Using a client-centered approach we specialize in a variety of therapeutic modalities and holistic health services to meet each individual's needs to align the mind, body and spirit. Seeking motivated individuals ready to make peace with their past, rewire/replace unhealthy habits in the present and evolve towards the future they choose to create by learning how to self-regulate and self-soothe.
We use an eclectic therapy approach from traditional cognitive behavioral talk therapies to somatic therapy and movement.
Managing high levels of stress and processing past unresolved trauma/negative emotions (anger, resentment, grief) is critical for our health as stress and anxiety can contribute to a wide array of medical illness, diseases and chronic pain. Using a client-centered approach we specialize in a variety of therapeutic modalities and holistic health services to meet each individual's needs to align the mind, body and spirit. Seeking motivated individuals ready to make peace with their past, rewire/replace unhealthy habits in the present and evolve towards the future they choose to create by learning how to self-regulate and self-soothe.
(760) 913-1324 View (760) 913-1324
Photo of Jessiline Berry, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Kern County, CA
Jessiline Berry
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90048
Mine is a relational psychodynamic approach, combined with mindfulness, creative arts, movement, and somatic interventions, intended to help you FEEL so you are empowered to HEAL.
I work with people from all walks of life, including LGBTQIA+ and individuals from the global majority who experience marginalization. My approach is sex and body positive, and always (and in all ways) respectful of the intersectionality of identities. I have a particular interest in working with artists and survivors of sexual trauma, single or partnered, who want to (re)connect with their sense of desire, sexual agency, and sensual vitality.
Mine is a relational psychodynamic approach, combined with mindfulness, creative arts, movement, and somatic interventions, intended to help you FEEL so you are empowered to HEAL.
I work with people from all walks of life, including LGBTQIA+ and individuals from the global majority who experience marginalization. My approach is sex and body positive, and always (and in all ways) respectful of the intersectionality of identities. I have a particular interest in working with artists and survivors of sexual trauma, single or partnered, who want to (re)connect with their sense of desire, sexual agency, and sensual vitality.
(424) 383-7467 View (424) 383-7467
Photo of Romi Cumes Somatic Therapy, P.C., Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Romi Cumes Somatic Therapy, P.C.
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CMT
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Although I am a clinically-trained and licensed therapist, new clients should know my approach and style is unique, as I draw from over 20 years of healing arts experience across the spectrum of psychology, bodywork, energy-healing, yoga and movement.
I understand that you may be seeking a recalibration, an awakening, or a new way forward. As a somatic psychotherapist and intuitive healer, my intention is to support individuals to get in touch with the lived experience of the body, especially as it pertains to body-mind-spirit healing, personal development, and relational growth. My approach is theoretically holistic, supporting clients to identify, explore, and transform stuck patterns, so they become more capable of living happy, balanced lives. Learn more about my practice by visiting RomiCumes.com. (Please note: Anthem patients will be referred to our skilled Associate MFTs)
Although I am a clinically-trained and licensed therapist, new clients should know my approach and style is unique, as I draw from over 20 years of healing arts experience across the spectrum of psychology, bodywork, energy-healing, yoga and movement.
I understand that you may be seeking a recalibration, an awakening, or a new way forward. As a somatic psychotherapist and intuitive healer, my intention is to support individuals to get in touch with the lived experience of the body, especially as it pertains to body-mind-spirit healing, personal development, and relational growth. My approach is theoretically holistic, supporting clients to identify, explore, and transform stuck patterns, so they become more capable of living happy, balanced lives. Learn more about my practice by visiting RomiCumes.com. (Please note: Anthem patients will be referred to our skilled Associate MFTs)
(805) 335-6814 x1 View (805) 335-6814 x1
Photo of Creative Family Therapy, Inc , Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Creative Family Therapy, Inc
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Thousand Oaks, CA 91360
Release anxiety, depression, stress, and traumas through Neurologically based healing techniques, that quickly restore you to explore your potential. I am a certified Brainspotting and Mindfulness expert who will help you set goals based on your personality type to release trauma integrating Art, Guided Imagery, Somatic, Mindfulness, SandTray, Psychodynamic, and Cognitive Behavioral techniques. Together we will choose from a combination of techniques that will release negative experiences and help you rebuild positive goals for your future! Experience true joy and love aligning your mind, body, spirit, and soul for purpose.
Release anxiety, depression, stress, and traumas through Neurologically based healing techniques, that quickly restore you to explore your potential. I am a certified Brainspotting and Mindfulness expert who will help you set goals based on your personality type to release trauma integrating Art, Guided Imagery, Somatic, Mindfulness, SandTray, Psychodynamic, and Cognitive Behavioral techniques. Together we will choose from a combination of techniques that will release negative experiences and help you rebuild positive goals for your future! Experience true joy and love aligning your mind, body, spirit, and soul for purpose.
(805) 301-5227 View (805) 301-5227
Photo of Margaret Holanov, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Margaret Holanov
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ventura, CA 93001
Licensed Clinical Social Worker with additional expertise and training in somatics, creative arts, mindfulness/self-compassion and trauma sensitive practices. Insight oriented psychodynamic therapy, skills training, trauma, DBT emotional regulation strategies, and substance abuse treatment are employed to support your therapy goals. I strive to support your unique exploration of the interrelationships of body, mind, emotion, sensing, feeling, and expression as embodied in your journey to befriend, honor, and be fully at home in your authentic self.
Licensed Clinical Social Worker with additional expertise and training in somatics, creative arts, mindfulness/self-compassion and trauma sensitive practices. Insight oriented psychodynamic therapy, skills training, trauma, DBT emotional regulation strategies, and substance abuse treatment are employed to support your therapy goals. I strive to support your unique exploration of the interrelationships of body, mind, emotion, sensing, feeling, and expression as embodied in your journey to befriend, honor, and be fully at home in your authentic self.
(805) 862-1507 View (805) 862-1507
Photo of Christhmus (Christopher Chu) Presence, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Kern County, CA
Christhmus (Christopher Chu) Presence
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90012  (Online Only)
Offering CA-based Telehealth ideal for BIPOC: Black, Indigenous, &/or People of Color, including white-passing & mixed-race BIPOC. Also welcoming Families & Partnerships with 1 or more BIPOC in regular attendance. I offer Xychotherapy: psychotherapy that recognizes therapeutic experiences existed long before psychotherapy was invented, and incorporates psychotherapy into global therapeutic wisdoms and practices.
Offering CA-based Telehealth ideal for BIPOC: Black, Indigenous, &/or People of Color, including white-passing & mixed-race BIPOC. Also welcoming Families & Partnerships with 1 or more BIPOC in regular attendance. I offer Xychotherapy: psychotherapy that recognizes therapeutic experiences existed long before psychotherapy was invented, and incorporates psychotherapy into global therapeutic wisdoms and practices.
View
Photo of Adonata Pyaga, Counselor in Kern County, CA
Adonata Pyaga
Counselor, MS, LPCC, CCHT, CPT
Verified Verified
Ventura, CA 93001  (Online Only)
My gift is to set the stage so you experience your deepest well being, free from all emotional upset. Since studying and practicing trauma resolution methods, and understanding the latest brain research, I have developed a unique psychotherapeutic modality,, The Connection Method™. It permanently resolves traumatic experiences and mood disorders. It is a system that goes beyond managing stress, depression, anxiety, impulsivity, psychosomatic illnesses etc. Instead, it transforms them at their core so you can live your full potential. I enjoy working with individuals of the most varied backgrounds, as I myself am from 4 countries.
My gift is to set the stage so you experience your deepest well being, free from all emotional upset. Since studying and practicing trauma resolution methods, and understanding the latest brain research, I have developed a unique psychotherapeutic modality,, The Connection Method™. It permanently resolves traumatic experiences and mood disorders. It is a system that goes beyond managing stress, depression, anxiety, impulsivity, psychosomatic illnesses etc. Instead, it transforms them at their core so you can live your full potential. I enjoy working with individuals of the most varied backgrounds, as I myself am from 4 countries.
(505) 393-7104 View (505) 393-7104
Photo of Caring Connected, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Caring Connected
Marriage & Family Therapist, AMFT, APCC, LMFT, LPCC, LCSW
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Valencia, CA 91355
Are you feeling disconnected, stressed, stuck, scared, or angry? Are you repeating relationships, patterns, or situations and wishing you could break the cycle? Maybe life feels more frustrating or stressful than usual. Sometimes we aren't sure what causes our distress, but we know we're not reaching our potential for health, happiness, or success. And even if we know what the issue is, change can feel impossible. That's where our team of qualified professionals can help. Our job isn't to judge you or your choices, it's to help you understand the root causes of your issues and work together to create a custom plan for change.
Are you feeling disconnected, stressed, stuck, scared, or angry? Are you repeating relationships, patterns, or situations and wishing you could break the cycle? Maybe life feels more frustrating or stressful than usual. Sometimes we aren't sure what causes our distress, but we know we're not reaching our potential for health, happiness, or success. And even if we know what the issue is, change can feel impossible. That's where our team of qualified professionals can help. Our job isn't to judge you or your choices, it's to help you understand the root causes of your issues and work together to create a custom plan for change.
(707) 317-6092 View (707) 317-6092
Photo of Flow House Therapy Group, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Flow House Therapy Group
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, EMDR, SEP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90401
Yay! You’re thinking about trying therapy, but going through these profiles is A LOT. Life is overwhelming enough, let us help make this part easy. Schedule a free consult call, have a nice little chat, and get matched immediately with someone personally chosen for you. There are 8 of us - with different styles, personalities, specialities, and schedules - so odds are high of finding a good match.
Yay! You’re thinking about trying therapy, but going through these profiles is A LOT. Life is overwhelming enough, let us help make this part easy. Schedule a free consult call, have a nice little chat, and get matched immediately with someone personally chosen for you. There are 8 of us - with different styles, personalities, specialities, and schedules - so odds are high of finding a good match.
(323) 310-1543 View (323) 310-1543
Photo of Walk It Out Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Walk It Out Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90041
I love people and hearing their stories. Walk with me as I conduct therapy sessions outside (or in office if requested) as I believe putting our body in motion is connected to putting our mind in motion. I see individuals for one-on-one counseling sessions with the goal of guiding you to live your best life through listening, empathizing, and offering techniques to help you understand and reach your goals. I specialize in working with women ages 16-65 suffering from disordered eating, low self-esteem, anxiety, or navigating life transitions whether postpartum, divorce/marriage or career change. I look forward to speaking with you!
I love people and hearing their stories. Walk with me as I conduct therapy sessions outside (or in office if requested) as I believe putting our body in motion is connected to putting our mind in motion. I see individuals for one-on-one counseling sessions with the goal of guiding you to live your best life through listening, empathizing, and offering techniques to help you understand and reach your goals. I specialize in working with women ages 16-65 suffering from disordered eating, low self-esteem, anxiety, or navigating life transitions whether postpartum, divorce/marriage or career change. I look forward to speaking with you!
(818) 532-5638 View (818) 532-5638
Photo of Amelia C Hall, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Amelia C Hall
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Valencia, CA 91355
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
Photo of Alice Dote, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Alice Dote
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90026  (Online Only)
Having a trusted therapist as a member of your support network can make a huge difference in the quality and enjoyment of your daily life. In our sessions, I pay attention and attune to your somatic and emotional state, social and cultural location, and attachment history to support you in staying mentally, emotionally, and physically healthy.
Having a trusted therapist as a member of your support network can make a huge difference in the quality and enjoyment of your daily life. In our sessions, I pay attention and attune to your somatic and emotional state, social and cultural location, and attachment history to support you in staying mentally, emotionally, and physically healthy.
(661) 438-0158 View (661) 438-0158
Photo of Share Your Story Therapy and Coaching, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Share Your Story Therapy and Coaching
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90045
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who works with adults, adolescents, and couples. I enjoy spending quality time with friends and family, comedy, theatre, film making, creative writing, improvisation, nature, traveling, film and television, documentaries, dancing and making art of all kinds. I graduated from the High School for Performing and Visual Arts in Houston, Texas. In college I studied theatre, documentary film and creative writing. I have a BA from Columbia College Chicago.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who works with adults, adolescents, and couples. I enjoy spending quality time with friends and family, comedy, theatre, film making, creative writing, improvisation, nature, traveling, film and television, documentaries, dancing and making art of all kinds. I graduated from the High School for Performing and Visual Arts in Houston, Texas. In college I studied theatre, documentary film and creative writing. I have a BA from Columbia College Chicago.
(925) 430-6899 View (925) 430-6899
Photo of Katrina Dela Cruz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Katrina Dela Cruz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CYI, Reiki 2
Verified Verified
Topanga, CA 90290
I have been honored to support many through some of the most significant transitions in their lives. Opening my career with a decade as a hospital clinician, I was especially drawn to the beginning and end of life, and the incredible privilege it is to be welcomed to hold space during these times. In my private practice, I specialize in grief and loss, particularly death and dying, and the emotional and spiritual work surrounding other transitions, rites of passage, and life cycles. This includes work around the end of life, pregnancy loss (including TFMR), traumatic birthing processes, and plant spirit medicine integration.
I have been honored to support many through some of the most significant transitions in their lives. Opening my career with a decade as a hospital clinician, I was especially drawn to the beginning and end of life, and the incredible privilege it is to be welcomed to hold space during these times. In my private practice, I specialize in grief and loss, particularly death and dying, and the emotional and spiritual work surrounding other transitions, rites of passage, and life cycles. This includes work around the end of life, pregnancy loss (including TFMR), traumatic birthing processes, and plant spirit medicine integration.
(805) 667-0631 View (805) 667-0631
Photo of Pavan Basra, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Pavan Basra
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, Coach
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91423  (Online Only)
If you don't like the road you're walking, let's pave a new one together! I work with women, young adults, and teens who are having difficulty maneuvering through life changes to help them achieve the life they envision. Together, we work on issues surrounding anxiety, self-esteem, depression, and outside pressures from society, family, culture, media and more. I approach my clients with a compassionate, direct, and non-judgmental lens. I am relatable and always honest. My clients learn to embrace confidence, be more assertive, manage emotions and relationships, and succeed in academics, career, and intimate relationships.
If you don't like the road you're walking, let's pave a new one together! I work with women, young adults, and teens who are having difficulty maneuvering through life changes to help them achieve the life they envision. Together, we work on issues surrounding anxiety, self-esteem, depression, and outside pressures from society, family, culture, media and more. I approach my clients with a compassionate, direct, and non-judgmental lens. I am relatable and always honest. My clients learn to embrace confidence, be more assertive, manage emotions and relationships, and succeed in academics, career, and intimate relationships.
(747) 232-5192 View (747) 232-5192

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.