Dance Movement Therapy in Chicago, IL

Photo of Lauren Mulligan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Lauren Mulligan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, R-DMT, CYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613
My training as a dance/movement therapist and yoga teacher allows me to attend to your whole body/mind/spirit in our work.
I believe my role as a therapist is to help you hold and find meaning in your pain, and delight with you in what is playful and pleasureful in your life. My approach is warm, direct, and collaborative. I am interested in creating a genuine, transparent and accountable relationship with you. My hope is that within our relationship we can identify and interrupt harmful patterns that may emerge in your relationships and reinforce patterns that bring you joy and connection. Therapy is inherently political, and I aim to engage with my clients in ways that are liberatory, anti-racist and affirming of their intersecting identities.
My training as a dance/movement therapist and yoga teacher allows me to attend to your whole body/mind/spirit in our work.
I believe my role as a therapist is to help you hold and find meaning in your pain, and delight with you in what is playful and pleasureful in your life. My approach is warm, direct, and collaborative. I am interested in creating a genuine, transparent and accountable relationship with you. My hope is that within our relationship we can identify and interrupt harmful patterns that may emerge in your relationships and reinforce patterns that bring you joy and connection. Therapy is inherently political, and I aim to engage with my clients in ways that are liberatory, anti-racist and affirming of their intersecting identities.
(312) 874-6545 View (312) 874-6545
Photo of Izzy Brown, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Izzy Brown
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, R-DMT
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60611
Holistic healing can be the start to your journey into self-discovery, growth, and connection to the present moment. Talk therapy, in addition to movement interventions, will unlock the person you are meant to be. Connecting mind, body, and spirit will ignite empowerment and wholeness from within as we rewrite your narrative. What is beautiful about this work is that it is for everyone and anyone! Whatever your struggle may be, I am here as a dance/movement therapist to provide safety as we discover your passions, values and goals. We will collaborate together for long term wellness.
Holistic healing can be the start to your journey into self-discovery, growth, and connection to the present moment. Talk therapy, in addition to movement interventions, will unlock the person you are meant to be. Connecting mind, body, and spirit will ignite empowerment and wholeness from within as we rewrite your narrative. What is beautiful about this work is that it is for everyone and anyone! Whatever your struggle may be, I am here as a dance/movement therapist to provide safety as we discover your passions, values and goals. We will collaborate together for long term wellness.
(872) 259-1243 View (872) 259-1243
Photo of Devorah Sarah, Marriage & Family Therapist in Chicago, IL
Devorah Sarah
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60618
I employ an integrative approach to my work, drawing on various theoretical orientations and modalities, including the arts (music, movement, puppetry, art) and play therapy.
I have dedicated my practice to supporting children and families impacted by conflict, developmental, neurological, and relational issues. I have a great love and unique gifts working with young children - toddlers through 8-year-olds. Throughout therapy, I provide a safe, compassionate, non-judgmental space where clients can explore issues, work through trauma, challenging situations, and relationships. My approach is joyful, nurturing, creative, caring, and playful.
I employ an integrative approach to my work, drawing on various theoretical orientations and modalities, including the arts (music, movement, puppetry, art) and play therapy.
I have dedicated my practice to supporting children and families impacted by conflict, developmental, neurological, and relational issues. I have a great love and unique gifts working with young children - toddlers through 8-year-olds. Throughout therapy, I provide a safe, compassionate, non-judgmental space where clients can explore issues, work through trauma, challenging situations, and relationships. My approach is joyful, nurturing, creative, caring, and playful.
(872) 266-9530 View (872) 266-9530
Photo of Rebecca Rice, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Rebecca Rice
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, R-DMT, MA, MFA
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60657
I perform traditional talk therapy, but often supplement that with dance/movement therapy or other creative art modalities.
Sometimes life presents us with difficult challenges and we feel lost. We may be haunted by trauma, feel stuck in relationships, have negative thoughts cycling around in our minds, and find that we are sabotaging ourselves. Changing life circumstances-both positive (like the birth of a child) or negative (loss of a job)-can cause anxiety and despair. I address these issues by fostering a warm and trusting therapeutic relationship where clients become more aware of their thoughts and feelings, make sense of their experiences, and move forward in their lives.
I perform traditional talk therapy, but often supplement that with dance/movement therapy or other creative art modalities.
Sometimes life presents us with difficult challenges and we feel lost. We may be haunted by trauma, feel stuck in relationships, have negative thoughts cycling around in our minds, and find that we are sabotaging ourselves. Changing life circumstances-both positive (like the birth of a child) or negative (loss of a job)-can cause anxiety and despair. I address these issues by fostering a warm and trusting therapeutic relationship where clients become more aware of their thoughts and feelings, make sense of their experiences, and move forward in their lives.
(847) 807-1280 View (847) 807-1280
Photo of Shannon Degnan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Shannon Degnan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640
I am well-versed in movement therapy techniques that offer a bottom-up approach to trauma symptoms for those who haven't seen change with traditional talk therapy.
My ideal client might struggle to claim who they are and express themselves. This client might be accustomed to running away from themselves and life, numbing out with behaviors like restricting/binging food, substances, sexual acting out, pornography, compulsive spending, excessive exercise or seeking a partner to be the solution. I would love to help you stop avoiding yourself and release the illusion of control that these behaviors offer, to shift gracefully into the swing of life as an authentic you. I work well with those who are seeking spirituality, improved connections, body acceptance and relief from trauma symptoms.
I am well-versed in movement therapy techniques that offer a bottom-up approach to trauma symptoms for those who haven't seen change with traditional talk therapy.
My ideal client might struggle to claim who they are and express themselves. This client might be accustomed to running away from themselves and life, numbing out with behaviors like restricting/binging food, substances, sexual acting out, pornography, compulsive spending, excessive exercise or seeking a partner to be the solution. I would love to help you stop avoiding yourself and release the illusion of control that these behaviors offer, to shift gracefully into the swing of life as an authentic you. I work well with those who are seeking spirituality, improved connections, body acceptance and relief from trauma symptoms.
(312) 786-5500 x104 View (312) 786-5500 x104
Photo of Susan Steinke, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Susan Steinke
Counselor, LCPC, RYT-200
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602
I incorporate art, movement, metaphor, improvisation, and role-play into the process, to help foster self-expression and self-discovery.
Do you struggle to balance multiple life roles, have difficulty practicing self-compassion, or find that stress and anxiety leave you feeling depleted? Are looking for a way to safely explore difficult thoughts and emotions. Are you curious about your relationship to yourself and with others? I offer a collaborative, caring, creative approach, and invite clients to put on their detective hats as they get to know themselves and explore their experiences; I am here to support you as you discover new ways of becoming ‘unstuck.’
I incorporate art, movement, metaphor, improvisation, and role-play into the process, to help foster self-expression and self-discovery.
Do you struggle to balance multiple life roles, have difficulty practicing self-compassion, or find that stress and anxiety leave you feeling depleted? Are looking for a way to safely explore difficult thoughts and emotions. Are you curious about your relationship to yourself and with others? I offer a collaborative, caring, creative approach, and invite clients to put on their detective hats as they get to know themselves and explore their experiences; I am here to support you as you discover new ways of becoming ‘unstuck.’
(312) 847-2470 x2 View (312) 847-2470 x2
Photo of Aimee Dokko Osborne, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Aimee Dokko Osborne
Counselor, MA, NCC, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602  (Online Only)
Additionally, she draws from background experience as: Career Consultant, College Academic Advisor, English teacher, School-Based Social Emotional Learning Specialist, Qi Gong Facilitator & Nia 5 Stages (Developmental Integrative Movement) & Theraplay Informed Practice Counselor, Sunshine Circles Facilitator and a mother of two teen daughters.
Whether you desire to make changes, heal wounds or develop a more genuine and authentic life, Aimee invites you to partner with her in creating a safe, supportive space for reflection and growth. Examine, explore and discover how maintain a more gratifying and joyful lifestyle. As your story unfolds, she tailors a wholistic approach that meets your personal needs, goals and aspirations.
Additionally, she draws from background experience as: Career Consultant, College Academic Advisor, English teacher, School-Based Social Emotional Learning Specialist, Qi Gong Facilitator & Nia 5 Stages (Developmental Integrative Movement) & Theraplay Informed Practice Counselor, Sunshine Circles Facilitator and a mother of two teen daughters.
Whether you desire to make changes, heal wounds or develop a more genuine and authentic life, Aimee invites you to partner with her in creating a safe, supportive space for reflection and growth. Examine, explore and discover how maintain a more gratifying and joyful lifestyle. As your story unfolds, she tailors a wholistic approach that meets your personal needs, goals and aspirations.
(312) 516-2454 View (312) 516-2454
Photo of Karyn Warford, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Karyn Warford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60616
Hi! I’m a licensed therapist with over 6 years of experience helping individuals with issues such as anxiety, depression, women's issues, relationship issues, addiction, ADHD, stress, and more. I draw from modalities such as Acceptance and Commitment (ACT), Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Dance/Movement Therapy, and the Gottman Method. If you’re feeling stuck in the same patterns that keep you from living your most meaningful life and reaching your goals, or your current strategies aren’t helping you to achieve your bigger goals, I can help.
Hi! I’m a licensed therapist with over 6 years of experience helping individuals with issues such as anxiety, depression, women's issues, relationship issues, addiction, ADHD, stress, and more. I draw from modalities such as Acceptance and Commitment (ACT), Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Dance/Movement Therapy, and the Gottman Method. If you’re feeling stuck in the same patterns that keep you from living your most meaningful life and reaching your goals, or your current strategies aren’t helping you to achieve your bigger goals, I can help.
(217) 292-6925 View (217) 292-6925
Photo of Ashley Fargnoli, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Ashley Fargnoli
Counselor, MA, LCPC, BC-DMT, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60618  (Online Only)
If you have been impacted by trauma, I'll draw on my expertise in dance/movement therapy and sensorimotor psychotherapy to help you reconnect to your body in a way what feels safe for you.
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. 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 dance/movement therapy and sensorimotor psychotherapy to help you reconnect to your body in a way what feels safe for you.
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. 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.
(773) 754-4904 View (773) 754-4904
Photo of Kellyn Jackson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Kellyn Jackson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, BC-DMT
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60613
As a licensed professional counselor and dance/movement therapist, I collaborate with you to spark your inherent creativity and wisdom that will guide you to integration.
Hi! I work with people longing for more clarity, self-trust, self-worth, balance, joy, intimacy, body acceptance, and self-compassion. Often my clients have an idea of what they need, but struggle to connect knowledge to action and embodiment. They may feel overwhelmed by relationships, responsibilities, and/or expectations, and want help staying true to themselves amidst life's demands. They may have strained relationships with their bodies, and long for more ease. I welcome people across the neurodivergent spectrum. My work is trauma-informed & culturally-humble, so I will take time to get to know your unique story.
As a licensed professional counselor and dance/movement therapist, I collaborate with you to spark your inherent creativity and wisdom that will guide you to integration.
Hi! I work with people longing for more clarity, self-trust, self-worth, balance, joy, intimacy, body acceptance, and self-compassion. Often my clients have an idea of what they need, but struggle to connect knowledge to action and embodiment. They may feel overwhelmed by relationships, responsibilities, and/or expectations, and want help staying true to themselves amidst life's demands. They may have strained relationships with their bodies, and long for more ease. I welcome people across the neurodivergent spectrum. My work is trauma-informed & culturally-humble, so I will take time to get to know your unique story.
(872) 274-3816 View (872) 274-3816
Photo of Eve Chalom in Chicago, IL
Eve Chalom
BC-DMT
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60642
I am comfortable working with a wide range of issues, and working with me is best for clients who are interested in not only talking through their problems, but physically moving about them and getting a felt sense of everything that’s going on. As a dance movement therapist, I think the body can be a marvelous source for solutions and insights, when the movement is approached in a way that’s comfortable and safe. Talking is also an important part of the process, as we are whole mind/body systems, and we work best when both are accessible and well connected to each other. Resolving and integrating the past is part of the work.
I am comfortable working with a wide range of issues, and working with me is best for clients who are interested in not only talking through their problems, but physically moving about them and getting a felt sense of everything that’s going on. As a dance movement therapist, I think the body can be a marvelous source for solutions and insights, when the movement is approached in a way that’s comfortable and safe. Talking is also an important part of the process, as we are whole mind/body systems, and we work best when both are accessible and well connected to each other. Resolving and integrating the past is part of the work.
(312) 872-8952 View (312) 872-8952
Photo of Chih-Hsien Lin, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Chih-Hsien Lin
Counselor, MA, LCPC, BC-DMT, EMDR, MPA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60660
I am a Board Certified Dance/Movement Therapist trained in EMDR.
Suffering is often the result of less than nurturing relationships and experiences. Fear can become imprisoned in the body. Family and culture can dictate how safe it is, or not safe, to express and be yourself. My immigrant experience from Taiwan allows me deeper empathy with people navigating life transitions and relating to different cultures and new relationships. At Embodied Way Psychotherapy PLLC, I strive to empower individuals within the context of systemic injustice and complications. My work is to provide compassion and wisdom so that you can feel fully alive and authentic in your body, your world and your relationships.
I am a Board Certified Dance/Movement Therapist trained in EMDR.
Suffering is often the result of less than nurturing relationships and experiences. Fear can become imprisoned in the body. Family and culture can dictate how safe it is, or not safe, to express and be yourself. My immigrant experience from Taiwan allows me deeper empathy with people navigating life transitions and relating to different cultures and new relationships. At Embodied Way Psychotherapy PLLC, I strive to empower individuals within the context of systemic injustice and complications. My work is to provide compassion and wisdom so that you can feel fully alive and authentic in your body, your world and your relationships.
(224) 601-5054 View (224) 601-5054
Photo of Stephanie Kilper, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Stephanie Kilper
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, BC-DMT
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60613
I will support you in building your body-mind connection to deepen your inner strength and capacity to confront the challenges life brings you. As a dance/movement therapist and licensed clinical professional counselor, I merge the felt experience with cognitive processing to support full integration in your healing process. We know that the body remembers all it has experienced. Let's give your body, brain, and heart the opportunity to work together to help you heal. I will support you in building the skills, insight, and ability to face the hard stuff and find your power, hope, and confidence to keep building a life you will love.
I will support you in building your body-mind connection to deepen your inner strength and capacity to confront the challenges life brings you. As a dance/movement therapist and licensed clinical professional counselor, I merge the felt experience with cognitive processing to support full integration in your healing process. We know that the body remembers all it has experienced. Let's give your body, brain, and heart the opportunity to work together to help you heal. I will support you in building the skills, insight, and ability to face the hard stuff and find your power, hope, and confidence to keep building a life you will love.
(630) 547-3456 View (630) 547-3456
Photo of Eve K Brownstone, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Eve K Brownstone
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640  (Online Only)
Eve Brownstone, LCPC, Expressive Arts Therapist and Certified Psychodramatist I have been providing compassionate care for the creative soul for 32 years. I enjoy supporting and empowering my clients to look within to gain more self-awareness, self-love, and self-acceptance. Art therapy, dance/movement therapy, guided imagery, meditation, journaling, and role-play are some of the tools used for this journey. The arts are excellent outlets to cope with stress and therapeutic tools that get below the surface to the heart of the matter. Not everyone’s first language is verbal and the arts can help us speak. Speak our own truth.
Eve Brownstone, LCPC, Expressive Arts Therapist and Certified Psychodramatist I have been providing compassionate care for the creative soul for 32 years. I enjoy supporting and empowering my clients to look within to gain more self-awareness, self-love, and self-acceptance. Art therapy, dance/movement therapy, guided imagery, meditation, journaling, and role-play are some of the tools used for this journey. The arts are excellent outlets to cope with stress and therapeutic tools that get below the surface to the heart of the matter. Not everyone’s first language is verbal and the arts can help us speak. Speak our own truth.
(872) 704-8440 View (872) 704-8440
Photo of Lisa B Goldman, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Lisa B Goldman
Counselor, BC-DMT, LCPC, GL-CMA
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60645
Do you want to create change? Do you want to learn how to make intrapersonal and interpersonal shifts in order to move through your life with more ease? With 30 years of experience, I am a seasoned dance/movement therapist. However, I not only offer body centered approaches but a variety of other creative modalities such as art making, role play, and creative writing to awaken our healthiest parts. I have consistently witnessed the power of incorporating these non-verbal and artistically expressive techniques into the traditional counseling process.
Do you want to create change? Do you want to learn how to make intrapersonal and interpersonal shifts in order to move through your life with more ease? With 30 years of experience, I am a seasoned dance/movement therapist. However, I not only offer body centered approaches but a variety of other creative modalities such as art making, role play, and creative writing to awaken our healthiest parts. I have consistently witnessed the power of incorporating these non-verbal and artistically expressive techniques into the traditional counseling process.
(773) 906-4942 View (773) 906-4942
Photo of Olivia Santiago, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Olivia Santiago
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
"A unique part of my practice is that I welcome somatosensory experiences into therapy – whether that be through breath work, yoga, dance, art, movement.
Olivia has worked with clients of all ages with various levels of trauma experiences, narcissistic/ sexual/ physical abuse survivors, attachment difficulties, life transitions, codepedency, depression, anxiety, grief, and familial/peer relationship concerns. Practicing both personally and professionally from an anti-racist/ anti-oppressive lens and being LGBTQIA+ affirming, Olivia honors the intersectionalities of identities, lived experiences, and the ways in which these experiences are held in our bodies. She uses movement and expression to promote holistic healing that can aid with how these experiences show up in our bodies.
"A unique part of my practice is that I welcome somatosensory experiences into therapy – whether that be through breath work, yoga, dance, art, movement.
Olivia has worked with clients of all ages with various levels of trauma experiences, narcissistic/ sexual/ physical abuse survivors, attachment difficulties, life transitions, codepedency, depression, anxiety, grief, and familial/peer relationship concerns. Practicing both personally and professionally from an anti-racist/ anti-oppressive lens and being LGBTQIA+ affirming, Olivia honors the intersectionalities of identities, lived experiences, and the ways in which these experiences are held in our bodies. She uses movement and expression to promote holistic healing that can aid with how these experiences show up in our bodies.
(773) 900-7996 View (773) 900-7996
Photo of Michael Rangel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Michael Rangel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60647
Waitlist for new clients
There is so much in the power of therapy as a process that invites curiosity, creativity and play. I prioritize the innate ability to express vulnerabilities and needs through non-verbal, auditory, kinesthetic, and visual ways which I process with dance/movement therapy and other creative therapies. I strongly believe in the transformative power of art, especially for those who haven't found the language or words to express themselves yet. I honor the creative process and how it can initiate our own journey towards care and healing.
There is so much in the power of therapy as a process that invites curiosity, creativity and play. I prioritize the innate ability to express vulnerabilities and needs through non-verbal, auditory, kinesthetic, and visual ways which I process with dance/movement therapy and other creative therapies. I strongly believe in the transformative power of art, especially for those who haven't found the language or words to express themselves yet. I honor the creative process and how it can initiate our own journey towards care and healing.
(773) 993-1762 View (773) 993-1762
Photo of Stephanie Terrell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Stephanie Terrell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, BC-DMT
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60657
Each of us arrive into therapy for different reasons - seeking support, safety, connection, exploration, or change. Whatever the reason, when we enter therapy, we bring our whole self with us – body, mind, and spirit. Within my work, I center this holistic connection while expanding awareness, reclaiming safety and power, exploring purpose, and redefining our relationships to ourselves, others, and the world around us. As a dance/movement therapist and licensed counselor, my approach merges verbal processing and creative/body-based techniques.
Each of us arrive into therapy for different reasons - seeking support, safety, connection, exploration, or change. Whatever the reason, when we enter therapy, we bring our whole self with us – body, mind, and spirit. Within my work, I center this holistic connection while expanding awareness, reclaiming safety and power, exploring purpose, and redefining our relationships to ourselves, others, and the world around us. As a dance/movement therapist and licensed counselor, my approach merges verbal processing and creative/body-based techniques.
(872) 266-4219 x7622 View (872) 266-4219 x7622
Photo of InTouch & Motion, Counselor in Chicago, IL
InTouch & Motion
Counselor
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60641
Maybe you have tried traditional talk therapy, yoga, or self-help apps but you haven't found that sense relief from stress, anxiety, depression or grief. Grounded in the use of mindfulness and the creative arts therapies - art, movement, music, and drama - we believe the steps towards clarity, growth, and empowerment are about much more than talking. We are constantly thinking, feeling, sensing, expressing, interpreting, and responding to daily experiences. Your sessions will holistically explore all of these parts of your experience while gaining new skills to cope with stress, trauma, relationships, loss, or a new life change.
Maybe you have tried traditional talk therapy, yoga, or self-help apps but you haven't found that sense relief from stress, anxiety, depression or grief. Grounded in the use of mindfulness and the creative arts therapies - art, movement, music, and drama - we believe the steps towards clarity, growth, and empowerment are about much more than talking. We are constantly thinking, feeling, sensing, expressing, interpreting, and responding to daily experiences. Your sessions will holistically explore all of these parts of your experience while gaining new skills to cope with stress, trauma, relationships, loss, or a new life change.
(872) 250-4602 View (872) 250-4602
Photo of Rakhi Shingala, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Rakhi Shingala
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60630
Hi, I am Rakhi, a therapist at Path Mental Health. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Therapist (LCPC) and Board Certified Dance/Movement Therapist (BC-DMT). I have more than 10 years of experience helping individuals harness their potential to move towards their desired goals, facilitating change and healing. I use a client-centered approach, focusing on empathy, open-mindedness, and unconditional positive regard. I also incorporate Dialectic Behaviors Therapy (DBT), to improve insight, resilience, mindfulness, and emotional regulation. I do psychosomatic work to strengthen mind-body connections.
Hi, I am Rakhi, a therapist at Path Mental Health. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Therapist (LCPC) and Board Certified Dance/Movement Therapist (BC-DMT). I have more than 10 years of experience helping individuals harness their potential to move towards their desired goals, facilitating change and healing. I use a client-centered approach, focusing on empathy, open-mindedness, and unconditional positive regard. I also incorporate Dialectic Behaviors Therapy (DBT), to improve insight, resilience, mindfulness, and emotional regulation. I do psychosomatic work to strengthen mind-body connections.
(773) 694-1373 View (773) 694-1373

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.