Dance Movement Therapy in Newton Centre, MA

Photo of Taylor Lombard, Counselor in Newton Centre, MA
Taylor Lombard
Counselor, LMHC, R-DMT, CIEC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newton Centre, MA 02459
Throughout life, we experience many transitions and challenges that are difficult to navigate. Sometimes, we need support in identifying and removing the barriers that can hold us back. I believe therapy is a collaborative effort between therapist and client and that we work together as a team to meet your goals. I utilize a strength-based, multicultural-informed and feminist lens to empower my clients to develop insight and bring out their inner resiliencies.
Throughout life, we experience many transitions and challenges that are difficult to navigate. Sometimes, we need support in identifying and removing the barriers that can hold us back. I believe therapy is a collaborative effort between therapist and client and that we work together as a team to meet your goals. I utilize a strength-based, multicultural-informed and feminist lens to empower my clients to develop insight and bring out their inner resiliencies.
(617) 398-4217 View (617) 398-4217

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Destini Kohnen, Counselor in Newton Centre, MA
Destini Kohnen
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02114
I meet you where you are in whatever medium makes sense for you, be it music, art, drama, dance, or writing.
The ideal client is motivated to continue to work with their inner child to become grounded in the present moment. They may have anxiety, mood disorders, or personality disorders, or they may not be sure what is underlying their experience, which I can help identify as well. The ideal clients are open to trying new methods of healing, including arts and spirituality. They are willing to trust me with their feelings and express them, whether that is verbally, through the expressive arts, or both.
I meet you where you are in whatever medium makes sense for you, be it music, art, drama, dance, or writing.
The ideal client is motivated to continue to work with their inner child to become grounded in the present moment. They may have anxiety, mood disorders, or personality disorders, or they may not be sure what is underlying their experience, which I can help identify as well. The ideal clients are open to trying new methods of healing, including arts and spirituality. They are willing to trust me with their feelings and express them, whether that is verbally, through the expressive arts, or both.
(781) 429-3281 View (781) 429-3281
Photo of Ashley M Weaver-Unadkat, Counselor in Newton Centre, MA
Ashley M Weaver-Unadkat
Counselor, LCAT, LMHC, BC-DMT, CMA
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02115  (Online Only)
As a Dance/Movement Therapist, I specialize in using movement as a tool to identify, explore, and shift the way one relates to self, other, and the world around.
The therapy session is a time and space one sets aside to focus on self. To be with self. And to build one’s self. It can be challenging to reflect on patterns, thoughts and emotions, relationships, past events and/or change, but it can also be transformative and rewarding. My role as your therapist is to witness your process and to reflect back with you along the way. The therapeutic relationship is an essential piece of my practice and is built on honesty, trust, empathy, and compassion.
As a Dance/Movement Therapist, I specialize in using movement as a tool to identify, explore, and shift the way one relates to self, other, and the world around.
The therapy session is a time and space one sets aside to focus on self. To be with self. And to build one’s self. It can be challenging to reflect on patterns, thoughts and emotions, relationships, past events and/or change, but it can also be transformative and rewarding. My role as your therapist is to witness your process and to reflect back with you along the way. The therapeutic relationship is an essential piece of my practice and is built on honesty, trust, empathy, and compassion.
(617) 535-8684 View (617) 535-8684
Photo of Nikki Huijun Li, Pre-Licensed Professional in Newton Centre, MA
Nikki Huijun Li
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, R-DMT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Newton, MA 02464
Nikki provides culturally-affirming, attachment-based, queer-affirming, poly-friendly, strength-based and client-centered services, integrating trauma-informed and evidence-based theories including Dance/Movement Therapy (DMT), Expressive Arts Therapy, Family Systems Theory, Solution Focused Therapy (SFT), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), and Mindfulness.
Nikki works with children and adults of all backgrounds, specializing in children with special needs, parenting/co-parenting, couples' therapy and polyamory, international students, and Asian mental health. She has experience with a wide range of issues including anxiety, communication, self-image, personal growth, relational issues, boundary setting, neurodivergent and queer experiences, racial trauma, etc. Her therapeutic approach is creative and relational, and she provides language-specific care in both English and Mandarin Chinese.
Nikki provides culturally-affirming, attachment-based, queer-affirming, poly-friendly, strength-based and client-centered services, integrating trauma-informed and evidence-based theories including Dance/Movement Therapy (DMT), Expressive Arts Therapy, Family Systems Theory, Solution Focused Therapy (SFT), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), and Mindfulness.
Nikki works with children and adults of all backgrounds, specializing in children with special needs, parenting/co-parenting, couples' therapy and polyamory, international students, and Asian mental health. She has experience with a wide range of issues including anxiety, communication, self-image, personal growth, relational issues, boundary setting, neurodivergent and queer experiences, racial trauma, etc. Her therapeutic approach is creative and relational, and she provides language-specific care in both English and Mandarin Chinese.
(617) 765-9820 View (617) 765-9820
Photo of Heather G Daley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Newton Centre, MA
Heather G Daley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Winchester, MA 01890  (Online Only)
I am passionate about supporting and guiding women through major life transitions using somatic movement therapy. I have a specific interest in how through supportive, compassionate connection; a person’s nervous system can be re-wired to feel safe and grounded through various forms of expressive arts. My intention is to create a gentle space for you to experience your own voice openly and honestly by assisting the development and expression of your unique strength and resilience within the therapeutic relationship and most importantly within your personal relationships.
I am passionate about supporting and guiding women through major life transitions using somatic movement therapy. I have a specific interest in how through supportive, compassionate connection; a person’s nervous system can be re-wired to feel safe and grounded through various forms of expressive arts. My intention is to create a gentle space for you to experience your own voice openly and honestly by assisting the development and expression of your unique strength and resilience within the therapeutic relationship and most importantly within your personal relationships.
(617) 652-0942 View (617) 652-0942
Photo of Return to Center Counseling and Holistic Health, Counselor in Newton Centre, MA
Return to Center Counseling and Holistic Health
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LicAc
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02130
Beginning the search for a therapist can feel daunting, intimidating or overwhelming. I work with clients who are seeking to deeply embody their questions, reflections and emotions through dance-movement therapy (primarily authentic movement) and arts-based exploration (visual arts and writing). The clients I work with define themselves as deep feelers and imaginative thinkers.
Beginning the search for a therapist can feel daunting, intimidating or overwhelming. I work with clients who are seeking to deeply embody their questions, reflections and emotions through dance-movement therapy (primarily authentic movement) and arts-based exploration (visual arts and writing). The clients I work with define themselves as deep feelers and imaginative thinkers.
(857) 290-2076 View (857) 290-2076
Photo of Cassidy Bingham-The Therapy Space LLC, Counselor in Newton Centre, MA
Cassidy Bingham-The Therapy Space LLC
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Norwood, MA 02062  (Online Only)
I specialize in Expressive Arts Therapy, with an emphasis on dance and movement, and value creativity and spontaneity as part of mental health treatment.
I offer knowledgeable and affirming relationship and identity support to queer, trans, kinky, and polyamorous clients. I'm a nonbinary lesbian who is passionate about serving LGBTQIA+ clients. I come from a sex-positive, trauma-informed, and pleasure-focused perspective. I value the mind-body connection and can use a body-oriented approach to help you navigate how mental health symptoms manifest in the body, how trauma shows up in a dysregulated nervous system, and how we can cultivate relationships with our bodies to reconnect with the present through mindfulness, imagination, and play.
I specialize in Expressive Arts Therapy, with an emphasis on dance and movement, and value creativity and spontaneity as part of mental health treatment.
I offer knowledgeable and affirming relationship and identity support to queer, trans, kinky, and polyamorous clients. I'm a nonbinary lesbian who is passionate about serving LGBTQIA+ clients. I come from a sex-positive, trauma-informed, and pleasure-focused perspective. I value the mind-body connection and can use a body-oriented approach to help you navigate how mental health symptoms manifest in the body, how trauma shows up in a dysregulated nervous system, and how we can cultivate relationships with our bodies to reconnect with the present through mindfulness, imagination, and play.
(781) 678-8133 View (781) 678-8133
Photo of Nora Buonagurio, Counselor in Newton Centre, MA
Nora Buonagurio
Counselor, LMHC, R-DMT
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02459
Together in a safe, therapeutic relationship, we can explore movement, creativity and deeply listening to our selves so that we may come to a place of greater self-love.
Hello! Whether this is your first time seeking therapy or have been in therapy before, I welcome you here. I would also like to recognize your courage and self-awareness for seeking help. Life can take us in many different directions and paths, and you do not need to walk those paths alone. It is my goal to walk with you, to support you, and to encourage you through life’s ups and downs. I use a person-centered and creative approach to guide and nurture your journey to greater well-being. I find that humor helps in relating and understanding one another, and processing those feelings you’re not sure what to do with!
Together in a safe, therapeutic relationship, we can explore movement, creativity and deeply listening to our selves so that we may come to a place of greater self-love.
Hello! Whether this is your first time seeking therapy or have been in therapy before, I welcome you here. I would also like to recognize your courage and self-awareness for seeking help. Life can take us in many different directions and paths, and you do not need to walk those paths alone. It is my goal to walk with you, to support you, and to encourage you through life’s ups and downs. I use a person-centered and creative approach to guide and nurture your journey to greater well-being. I find that humor helps in relating and understanding one another, and processing those feelings you’re not sure what to do with!
(617) 915-2312 View (617) 915-2312
Photo of Destini Kohnen, Counselor in Newton Centre, MA
Destini Kohnen
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Cambridge, MA 02141
I meet you where you are in whatever medium makes sense for you, be it music, art, drama, dance, or writing.
The ideal client is motivated to continue to work with their inner child to become grounded in the present moment. They may have anxiety, mood disorders, or personality disorders, or they may not be sure what is underlying their experience, which I can help identify as well. The ideal clients are open to trying new methods of healing, including arts and spirituality. They are willing to trust me with their feelings and express them, whether that is verbally, through the expressive arts, or both.
I meet you where you are in whatever medium makes sense for you, be it music, art, drama, dance, or writing.
The ideal client is motivated to continue to work with their inner child to become grounded in the present moment. They may have anxiety, mood disorders, or personality disorders, or they may not be sure what is underlying their experience, which I can help identify as well. The ideal clients are open to trying new methods of healing, including arts and spirituality. They are willing to trust me with their feelings and express them, whether that is verbally, through the expressive arts, or both.
(857) 520-3190 View (857) 520-3190
Photo of Destini Kohnen, Counselor in Newton Centre, MA
Destini Kohnen
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Lexington, MA 02420
I meet you where you are in whatever medium makes sense for you, be it music, art, drama, dance, or writing.
The ideal client is motivated to continue to work with their inner child to become grounded in the present moment. They may have anxiety, mood disorders, or personality disorders, or they may not be sure what is underlying their experience, which I can help identify as well. The ideal clients are open to trying new methods of healing, including arts and spirituality. They are willing to trust me with their feelings and express them, whether that is verbally, through the expressive arts, or both.
I meet you where you are in whatever medium makes sense for you, be it music, art, drama, dance, or writing.
The ideal client is motivated to continue to work with their inner child to become grounded in the present moment. They may have anxiety, mood disorders, or personality disorders, or they may not be sure what is underlying their experience, which I can help identify as well. The ideal clients are open to trying new methods of healing, including arts and spirituality. They are willing to trust me with their feelings and express them, whether that is verbally, through the expressive arts, or both.
(339) 229-6879 View (339) 229-6879
Photo of Genevieve Fuller, Counselor in Newton Centre, MA
Genevieve Fuller
Counselor, LMHC, BC-DMT, EMDR-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02110  (Online Only)
As a certified EMDR and dance/movement therapist (D/MT), my approach is rooted in the healing power of embodiment, mindfulness and a trusted therapeutic relationship.
Do you ever find it difficult to stand on solid ground while the world is in constant motion around you? And no matter what you do, it never feels like enough? We know life’s obstacles are unlikely to go away all together, but what if you were able to navigate them from a place of curiosity and self-compassion? I offer a relaxed, trauma-informed and non-judgmental space to collaboratively expand on the strengths you already possess and shift the patterns that no longer serve you. Together we can unlock your natural potential for restoration and growth- where you can root into your authentic self with confidence and ease.
As a certified EMDR and dance/movement therapist (D/MT), my approach is rooted in the healing power of embodiment, mindfulness and a trusted therapeutic relationship.
Do you ever find it difficult to stand on solid ground while the world is in constant motion around you? And no matter what you do, it never feels like enough? We know life’s obstacles are unlikely to go away all together, but what if you were able to navigate them from a place of curiosity and self-compassion? I offer a relaxed, trauma-informed and non-judgmental space to collaboratively expand on the strengths you already possess and shift the patterns that no longer serve you. Together we can unlock your natural potential for restoration and growth- where you can root into your authentic self with confidence and ease.
(617) 249-3727 View (617) 249-3727
Photo of Bloom Life Counseling, Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Newton Centre, MA
Bloom Life Counseling
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC, R-DMT
Verified Verified
Cambridge, MA 02142  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, and a Registered Dance Movement Therapist.
Life is everchanging, and we go through different seasons and transitions, often being asked to access our resilience and coping skills to navigate our path in the moment. Having to face life transitions can sometimes feel anxiety provoking and scary, but also can be transformational and exciting. Starting from where you are, and looking forward, we can craft your next chapter of your life, while challenging thoughts or unproductive coping mechanisms that you’ve become accustomed to and past narratives or stories that might keep you stuck or feeling undeserving of a joyful peaceful life.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, and a Registered Dance Movement Therapist.
Life is everchanging, and we go through different seasons and transitions, often being asked to access our resilience and coping skills to navigate our path in the moment. Having to face life transitions can sometimes feel anxiety provoking and scary, but also can be transformational and exciting. Starting from where you are, and looking forward, we can craft your next chapter of your life, while challenging thoughts or unproductive coping mechanisms that you’ve become accustomed to and past narratives or stories that might keep you stuck or feeling undeserving of a joyful peaceful life.
(508) 546-9135 View (508) 546-9135
Photo of Alison Shaw in Newton Centre, MA
Alison Shaw
RN, LMT, CBHS
Verified Verified
Arlington, MA 02474  (Online Only)
In Bodymind Repatterning, I’ll help you free yourself from these patterns through talk, self awareness exercises, body dialogue, movement and expressive exercises all aimed at making your unconscious patterns conscious, and learning how to make new choices in alignment with who you really are and how you want your life to be.
Do you want to go beyond the limits of conventional psychotherapy to heal the deepest roots of your emotional struggles? I'd love to help. In my practice, I bring together somatic (body -centered), trauma and energy based therapies in a unique model that creates more effective healing than talk therapy alone. This integrative approach helps you uncover & release the deep unconscious lifelong "Bodymind Patterns" that live in the psyche AND body & can perpetuate unhappiness and keep you stuck or returning over & over to the same struggles, anxiety, shame, depression, unfulfilling relationships, low self esteem disconnection and pain.
In Bodymind Repatterning, I’ll help you free yourself from these patterns through talk, self awareness exercises, body dialogue, movement and expressive exercises all aimed at making your unconscious patterns conscious, and learning how to make new choices in alignment with who you really are and how you want your life to be.
Do you want to go beyond the limits of conventional psychotherapy to heal the deepest roots of your emotional struggles? I'd love to help. In my practice, I bring together somatic (body -centered), trauma and energy based therapies in a unique model that creates more effective healing than talk therapy alone. This integrative approach helps you uncover & release the deep unconscious lifelong "Bodymind Patterns" that live in the psyche AND body & can perpetuate unhappiness and keep you stuck or returning over & over to the same struggles, anxiety, shame, depression, unfulfilling relationships, low self esteem disconnection and pain.
(781) 754-7175 View (781) 754-7175
Photo of Sivan Rose Elefson, Mental Health Counselor in Newton Centre, MA
Sivan Rose Elefson
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC, R-DMT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Natick, MA 01760
Waitlist for new clients
Every thought & emotion impacts the body, just as impulses & movement in the body create feelings & thoughts.
I currently am not taking new clients. I am an experienced psychotherapist who specializes in a holistic & creative approach to the therapeutic process. I work with couples, families & individuals with an awareness of the whole person-- body, mind, spirit and soul. My style integrates traditional methods of therapy with expressive arts and dance/movement therapy to engage the imagination and use the body/mind connection in support of wellness and vitality. I focus on empowering the individual as well as the family together as a unit. My goal is to guide you towards your ideal self and family with a warm & friendly approach.
Every thought & emotion impacts the body, just as impulses & movement in the body create feelings & thoughts.
I currently am not taking new clients. I am an experienced psychotherapist who specializes in a holistic & creative approach to the therapeutic process. I work with couples, families & individuals with an awareness of the whole person-- body, mind, spirit and soul. My style integrates traditional methods of therapy with expressive arts and dance/movement therapy to engage the imagination and use the body/mind connection in support of wellness and vitality. I focus on empowering the individual as well as the family together as a unit. My goal is to guide you towards your ideal self and family with a warm & friendly approach.
(508) 456-0326 View (508) 456-0326
Photo of Mallory A Ingram, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Newton Centre, MA
Mallory A Ingram
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, R-DMT, LCPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Everett, MA 02149  (Online Only)
In addition, as a registered Dance/Movement Therapist, I work through a holistic and mind/body lens to bring healing and integration of the whole self.
We just hired a new clinician - Immediate Openings! As the owner of Modern Soul Therapy LLC, we strive to cultivate a deep sense of empathy and non-judgment to build a safe, collaborative, and empowering environment for clients to explore their greatest potential. My belief in the power of human resilience drives my work with clients, resulting in an eclectic, creative, and client-centered approach. I have extensive knowledge in trauma informed care, evidenced based practices such as CBT, DBT, and ACT, creative arts therapies, narrative therapy techniques, existential therapy, positive psychology, somatic therapy and mindfulness.
In addition, as a registered Dance/Movement Therapist, I work through a holistic and mind/body lens to bring healing and integration of the whole self.
We just hired a new clinician - Immediate Openings! As the owner of Modern Soul Therapy LLC, we strive to cultivate a deep sense of empathy and non-judgment to build a safe, collaborative, and empowering environment for clients to explore their greatest potential. My belief in the power of human resilience drives my work with clients, resulting in an eclectic, creative, and client-centered approach. I have extensive knowledge in trauma informed care, evidenced based practices such as CBT, DBT, and ACT, creative arts therapies, narrative therapy techniques, existential therapy, positive psychology, somatic therapy and mindfulness.
(617) 420-7490 View (617) 420-7490
Photo of Destini Kohnen, Counselor in Newton Centre, MA
Destini Kohnen
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Watertown, MA 02472
I meet you where you are in whatever medium makes sense for you, be it music, art, drama, dance, or writing.
The ideal client is motivated to continue to work with their inner child to become grounded in the present moment. They may have anxiety, mood disorders, or personality disorders, or they may not be sure what is underlying their experience, which I can help identify as well. The ideal clients are open to trying new methods of healing, including arts and spirituality. They are willing to trust me with their feelings and express them, whether that is verbally, through the expressive arts, or both.
I meet you where you are in whatever medium makes sense for you, be it music, art, drama, dance, or writing.
The ideal client is motivated to continue to work with their inner child to become grounded in the present moment. They may have anxiety, mood disorders, or personality disorders, or they may not be sure what is underlying their experience, which I can help identify as well. The ideal clients are open to trying new methods of healing, including arts and spirituality. They are willing to trust me with their feelings and express them, whether that is verbally, through the expressive arts, or both.
(857) 703-2747 View (857) 703-2747
Photo of Jade Martin-Willis, Counselor in Newton Centre, MA
Jade Martin-Willis
Counselor, LCMHC, LMHC, R-DMT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Cambridge, MA 02142  (Online Only)
I am a licensed clinician in New Hampshire and Massachusetts, and I am a Registered Dance/Movement Therapist. I have a person-centered and holistic approach. I enjoy blending traditional talk therapy, expressive arts, and movement therapy in my counseling sessions. Typically I begin therapy with traditional talk therapy and then at that point I am open to using any particular style depending on your preferred way of processing. Typically my clients are people who feel overwhelmed, have recent loss, need help improving self-esteem, need help improving relationships, and want realistic coping skills in their life.
I am a licensed clinician in New Hampshire and Massachusetts, and I am a Registered Dance/Movement Therapist. I have a person-centered and holistic approach. I enjoy blending traditional talk therapy, expressive arts, and movement therapy in my counseling sessions. Typically I begin therapy with traditional talk therapy and then at that point I am open to using any particular style depending on your preferred way of processing. Typically my clients are people who feel overwhelmed, have recent loss, need help improving self-esteem, need help improving relationships, and want realistic coping skills in their life.
(603) 903-1414 View (603) 903-1414
Photo of Leora Watts, Counselor in Newton Centre, MA
Leora Watts
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newton, MA 02464  (Online Only)
Taking new clients! I work primarily with adolescents and young adults ages 13-35, utilizing traditional talk therapy with the option for expressive therapies such as movement or art. Specific areas of focus include but are not limited to anxiety, school stress, depression, self-esteem, relationship challenges, identity/career exploration and life transitions.
Taking new clients! I work primarily with adolescents and young adults ages 13-35, utilizing traditional talk therapy with the option for expressive therapies such as movement or art. Specific areas of focus include but are not limited to anxiety, school stress, depression, self-esteem, relationship challenges, identity/career exploration and life transitions.
View
Photo of Dana Meshil, Counselor in Newton Centre, MA
Dana Meshil
Counselor, LMHC, BC-DMT
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02466
I believe that healing occurs within the therapeutic relationship and I aim to create a safe and supportive space that nurtures self-growth. As a dance/ movement therapist I prioritize a compassionate and holistic approach that utilizes the mind/ body connection to empower lasting change. I incorporate elements of creative expression, mindfulness, body-awareness, and education regarding symptomatology, along with traditional talk therapy to provide a client- centered approach focused on each individual's needs.
I believe that healing occurs within the therapeutic relationship and I aim to create a safe and supportive space that nurtures self-growth. As a dance/ movement therapist I prioritize a compassionate and holistic approach that utilizes the mind/ body connection to empower lasting change. I incorporate elements of creative expression, mindfulness, body-awareness, and education regarding symptomatology, along with traditional talk therapy to provide a client- centered approach focused on each individual's needs.
(617) 360-8784 View (617) 360-8784
Photo of Rachel Fernbach, Counselor in Newton Centre, MA
Rachel Fernbach
Counselor, LMHC, LCAT, LMT
Verified Verified
Weston, MA 02493  (Online Only)
I'm a trauma-informed Counselor and Creative Arts Therapist, with advanced study in Yoga, Meditation, and Authentic Movement.
My clients are motivated and curious, and recognize that outside support can make a big difference when life is just too much to handle alone. I approach therapy as a collaborative and creative effort, with mindfulness and body awareness contributing to our ongoing conversation. I offer support for anxiety, depression, life stage transitions, overwhelming stress, resolution of trauma, and chronic pain. I also specialize in helping women who have been diagnosed with Endometriosis.
I'm a trauma-informed Counselor and Creative Arts Therapist, with advanced study in Yoga, Meditation, and Authentic Movement.
My clients are motivated and curious, and recognize that outside support can make a big difference when life is just too much to handle alone. I approach therapy as a collaborative and creative effort, with mindfulness and body awareness contributing to our ongoing conversation. I offer support for anxiety, depression, life stage transitions, overwhelming stress, resolution of trauma, and chronic pain. I also specialize in helping women who have been diagnosed with Endometriosis.
(646) 863-5451 View (646) 863-5451

See more therapy options for Newton Centre

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.