Dance Movement Therapy in Evanston, IL

Photo of Diana Jean Semmelhack, Psychologist, PsyD, ABPP, LCPC
Diana Jean Semmelhack
Psychologist, PsyD, ABPP, LCPC
Evanston, IL 60201
I have over 25 years experience treating adults, families, adolescents, and couples. I specialize in depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and psychotic disorders. I am a published author who has presented my research on group psychotherapy nationally and internationally. I am also a licensed massage therapist who practices mind/body work. As a past board member with the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), and a past member of APA's Task force on severe mental illness, I am an advocate for individuals and families who struggle with the stigma associated with these disorders. As a retired professor at Midwestern University.
I have over 25 years experience treating adults, families, adolescents, and couples. I specialize in depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and psychotic disorders. I am a published author who has presented my research on group psychotherapy nationally and internationally. I am also a licensed massage therapist who practices mind/body work. As a past board member with the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), and a past member of APA's Task force on severe mental illness, I am an advocate for individuals and families who struggle with the stigma associated with these disorders. As a retired professor at Midwestern University.
(847) 641-2977 View (847) 641-2977
Photo of Julie Brannen, Counselor, LCPC, R-DMT, GLCMA
Julie Brannen
Counselor, LCPC, R-DMT, GLCMA
3 Endorsed
Evanston, IL 60201
My ideal client is someone who has a foundation of wellness + is looking to bridge the chasm between where they are + where they would like to be. They have self-awareness, motivation, + support system to aid them in their journey. They are looking to learn + implement sustainable tools, practices, + habits that will embody their authentic truth and enhance their lives as a whole. They are curious + open about integrative + holistic methods of healing. They are willing to lean into fear of walking the unknown path of internal alchemy + evolution, knowing they are, ultimately, the one that can heal themselves.
My ideal client is someone who has a foundation of wellness + is looking to bridge the chasm between where they are + where they would like to be. They have self-awareness, motivation, + support system to aid them in their journey. They are looking to learn + implement sustainable tools, practices, + habits that will embody their authentic truth and enhance their lives as a whole. They are curious + open about integrative + holistic methods of healing. They are willing to lean into fear of walking the unknown path of internal alchemy + evolution, knowing they are, ultimately, the one that can heal themselves.
(872) 810-1219 View (872) 810-1219
Photo of Vanessa Rae De Leon, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, BC-DMT
Vanessa Rae De Leon
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, BC-DMT
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Board Certified Dance Movement Therapist (BC-DMT-1452), Completed ICF training for Life Coaching
Are you feeling overwhelmed, emotionally reactive, or stuck in patterns that keep repeating in your relationships? Do you live with ADHD, anxiety, or unresolved trauma that still shows up in your daily life? I work with individuals who want to understand themselves more deeply and build healthier, more secure relationships. I specialize in ADHD and emotional regulation, anxiety and nervous system overwhelm, trauma and attachment wounds, relationship patterns and communication struggles, and high functioning professionals who feel exhausted beneath the surface.
Board Certified Dance Movement Therapist (BC-DMT-1452), Completed ICF training for Life Coaching
Are you feeling overwhelmed, emotionally reactive, or stuck in patterns that keep repeating in your relationships? Do you live with ADHD, anxiety, or unresolved trauma that still shows up in your daily life? I work with individuals who want to understand themselves more deeply and build healthier, more secure relationships. I specialize in ADHD and emotional regulation, anxiety and nervous system overwhelm, trauma and attachment wounds, relationship patterns and communication struggles, and high functioning professionals who feel exhausted beneath the surface.
(847) 499-1407 View (847) 499-1407
Photo of Shayne Adams, Counselor, LCPC
Shayne Adams
Counselor, LCPC
Online Only
My role as your therapist is to empower you with compassion and care that allows for healing. I guide you back to your inner voice to cultivate meaningful relationships. We are continually evolving because life is a creative process. I provide insight so that you better understand your relationship dynamics, allowing for the creation of new habits and patterns. Connection is essential, and it begins with the relationship to self. Increasing self-awareness, self-understanding, and establishing healthy tools for self-care empowers and equips you in navigating life's stressors. The goal is relational integration with self and others.
My role as your therapist is to empower you with compassion and care that allows for healing. I guide you back to your inner voice to cultivate meaningful relationships. We are continually evolving because life is a creative process. I provide insight so that you better understand your relationship dynamics, allowing for the creation of new habits and patterns. Connection is essential, and it begins with the relationship to self. Increasing self-awareness, self-understanding, and establishing healthy tools for self-care empowers and equips you in navigating life's stressors. The goal is relational integration with self and others.
(847) 916-0659 View (847) 916-0659
Photo of Jeannine Salemi, Counselor, LCPC, BC-DMT, CADC, GL-CMA
Jeannine Salemi
Counselor, LCPC, BC-DMT, CADC, GL-CMA
Evanston, IL 60202
I bring in my background in dance/ movement therapy to create a supportive space to explore, embody and heal as well as cultivate a deeper trust in oneself and oneself in relationship.
Change can feel confusing and overwhelming. You may struggle to hear or trust your inner wise voice - or feel unsure that it exists at all. I understand how discouraging this can be. In our work together, all parts of you are welcome. I offer a warm, attuned space where your nervous system responses are met with respect rather than judgment. As a compassionate guide, I support you in reconnecting with your inner wisdom and uncovering strengths and gifts that may feel hidden right now. My work is rooted in authentic connection and mind-body-soul awareness, helping you cultivate greater freedom of choice and agency in your life.
I bring in my background in dance/ movement therapy to create a supportive space to explore, embody and heal as well as cultivate a deeper trust in oneself and oneself in relationship.
Change can feel confusing and overwhelming. You may struggle to hear or trust your inner wise voice - or feel unsure that it exists at all. I understand how discouraging this can be. In our work together, all parts of you are welcome. I offer a warm, attuned space where your nervous system responses are met with respect rather than judgment. As a compassionate guide, I support you in reconnecting with your inner wisdom and uncovering strengths and gifts that may feel hidden right now. My work is rooted in authentic connection and mind-body-soul awareness, helping you cultivate greater freedom of choice and agency in your life.
(773) 673-9990 View (773) 673-9990
Photo of Mimi Monimia Macbeth, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, R-DMT
Mimi Monimia Macbeth
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, R-DMT
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
My work integrates talk therapy, movement, mindfulness, and identity exploration.
I help clients reconnect to themselves through trauma-informed, culturally aware, and body-based practices. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, grief, burnout, or self-discovery, I offer a space to heal, reflect, and grow using talk therapy, movement, and mindfulness based tools.
My work integrates talk therapy, movement, mindfulness, and identity exploration.
I help clients reconnect to themselves through trauma-informed, culturally aware, and body-based practices. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, grief, burnout, or self-discovery, I offer a space to heal, reflect, and grow using talk therapy, movement, and mindfulness based tools.
(773) 830-2448 View (773) 830-2448
Photo of Sylvia K Kyobe - Errie Counseling and Therapy Inc, PhD
Errie Counseling and Therapy Inc
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I am Dr. Sylvia Kobe, and I am a Licensed Clinical psychologist. My associate Dr. Mary-Zitta Muabe and I collaborate to cover a broad counseling spectrum. Together Dr. Muabe and I specialize in marriage, family therapy, and spiritual maturity. We also work with teens, young adults, and individuals battling anxiety, depression, or struggles to cope with every-life issues. We believe in empowering our clients, encouraging them to see that life is all about second chances, and with the right kind of intervention, the best is yet to come.
I am Dr. Sylvia Kobe, and I am a Licensed Clinical psychologist. My associate Dr. Mary-Zitta Muabe and I collaborate to cover a broad counseling spectrum. Together Dr. Muabe and I specialize in marriage, family therapy, and spiritual maturity. We also work with teens, young adults, and individuals battling anxiety, depression, or struggles to cope with every-life issues. We believe in empowering our clients, encouraging them to see that life is all about second chances, and with the right kind of intervention, the best is yet to come.
(847) 796-8905 View (847) 796-8905
Photo of Devorah Sarah, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Devorah Sarah
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Serves Area
I often integrate the arts: including music, movement, drama, puppetry, and visual art, if and when my clients are inclined and comfortable.
I have been working with children and families for over 25 years in various capacities including as a Psychotherapist, Early Childhood Special Ed Teacher, Early Childhood Music Teacher, Professional Children’s Entertainer, and Pediatric Medical Clown. I have dedicated my practice to supporting children and families and couples impacted by conflict, neurological, behavioral and relational issues. I am passionate about and have unique gifts in working with young children ages 2—7 and their families. Throughout therapy, I provide a safe, compassionate space where clients can explore issues, challenging situations, and relationships.
I often integrate the arts: including music, movement, drama, puppetry, and visual art, if and when my clients are inclined and comfortable.
I have been working with children and families for over 25 years in various capacities including as a Psychotherapist, Early Childhood Special Ed Teacher, Early Childhood Music Teacher, Professional Children’s Entertainer, and Pediatric Medical Clown. I have dedicated my practice to supporting children and families and couples impacted by conflict, neurological, behavioral and relational issues. I am passionate about and have unique gifts in working with young children ages 2—7 and their families. Throughout therapy, I provide a safe, compassionate space where clients can explore issues, challenging situations, and relationships.
(872) 266-9530 View (872) 266-9530
Photo of Chih-Hsien Lin, Counselor, MA, LCPC, BC-DMT, EMDR, MPA
Chih-Hsien Lin
Counselor, MA, LCPC, BC-DMT, EMDR, MPA
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
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 Jennifer Lynn Schroeder - InPowered Therapy + Yoga, Psychologist, PsyD
InPowered Therapy + Yoga
Psychologist, PsyD
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
At InPowered Therapy + Yoga we believe everyone is the expert on themself and that we all hold the ability to grow, heal, and change within us— we just need to learn how to connect with it. InPowered was founded on the belief that becoming safely grounded in our bodies leads to deepening self-awareness, compassion, and connection and that this work is at the root of healing within ourselves and our communities. Our work is centered on creating brave and inclusive spaces where it is the norm to explore the vulnerable corners of ourselves and face them with deep curiosity, compassion, and courage.
At InPowered Therapy + Yoga we believe everyone is the expert on themself and that we all hold the ability to grow, heal, and change within us— we just need to learn how to connect with it. InPowered was founded on the belief that becoming safely grounded in our bodies leads to deepening self-awareness, compassion, and connection and that this work is at the root of healing within ourselves and our communities. Our work is centered on creating brave and inclusive spaces where it is the norm to explore the vulnerable corners of ourselves and face them with deep curiosity, compassion, and courage.
(847) 868-3322 View (847) 868-3322

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Melissa St Jean, Licensed Clinical Professional Clinical Counselor, LCPC, BC-DMT, GL-CMA
Melissa St Jean
Licensed Clinical Professional Clinical Counselor, LCPC, BC-DMT, GL-CMA
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As a board-certified dance/ movement therapist and graduate Laban movement analyst, I bring an integrative perspective to treatment.
I believe that healing and personal growth are deeply intertwined with the quality of our relationships, both with others and with ourselves. In my therapeutic practice, I prioritize creating a safe and nurturing environment for my clients, drawing upon principles of trauma-informed care, authenticity, and compassion. Through a collaborative approach, my goal is to empower clients to cultivate a deeper connection with themselves and their innate capacity for healing.
As a board-certified dance/ movement therapist and graduate Laban movement analyst, I bring an integrative perspective to treatment.
I believe that healing and personal growth are deeply intertwined with the quality of our relationships, both with others and with ourselves. In my therapeutic practice, I prioritize creating a safe and nurturing environment for my clients, drawing upon principles of trauma-informed care, authenticity, and compassion. Through a collaborative approach, my goal is to empower clients to cultivate a deeper connection with themselves and their innate capacity for healing.
(872) 266-1315 View (872) 266-1315
Photo of Amina Dreessen - Amina Dreessen, MSc
Amina Dreessen
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a neuro-questioning somatic speech therapist who works with play, art, and movement in order to unlock more genuine and effective communication across neurotypes.
If you are: having trouble communicating with others, self-or-officially-diagnosed neurodivergent (ADHD, autistic, person who stutters), in relationship with someone who is neurodivergent, unsure of what your needs are or how to express them, feeling numb or out of touch with your body, then this is for you.
I am a neuro-questioning somatic speech therapist who works with play, art, and movement in order to unlock more genuine and effective communication across neurotypes.
If you are: having trouble communicating with others, self-or-officially-diagnosed neurodivergent (ADHD, autistic, person who stutters), in relationship with someone who is neurodivergent, unsure of what your needs are or how to express them, feeling numb or out of touch with your body, then this is for you.
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Photo of Biana Mavasheva, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, Rev, LCPC, QMHP
Biana Mavasheva
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, Rev, LCPC, QMHP
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I’m grateful to have this opportunity to connect with you. The therapeutic process is a sacred journey. Here we can share in a safe, non-judgmental place. If we have suffered addiction, anxiety, depression or trauma we can uncover the aspects of ourselves that need healing. The quality of our lives is directly connected to the quality of our relationships - with ourselves and with others. When our relationships are suffering, everything is impacted. For that reason, in our therapy sessions we explore whatever is unfolding in your relationships and we discover how to bring awareness and skill to these crucial connections.
I’m grateful to have this opportunity to connect with you. The therapeutic process is a sacred journey. Here we can share in a safe, non-judgmental place. If we have suffered addiction, anxiety, depression or trauma we can uncover the aspects of ourselves that need healing. The quality of our lives is directly connected to the quality of our relationships - with ourselves and with others. When our relationships are suffering, everything is impacted. For that reason, in our therapy sessions we explore whatever is unfolding in your relationships and we discover how to bring awareness and skill to these crucial connections.
(847) 886-4371 View (847) 886-4371
Photo of Aimee Dokko Osborne, Counselor, MA, NCC, LCPC
Aimee Dokko Osborne
Counselor, MA, NCC, LCPC
2 Endorsed
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 Sara Shotsberger, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RYT-200
Sara Shotsberger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RYT-200
5 Endorsed
Downers Grove, IL 60515
I’m experienced at helping people tackle serious, sometimes scary changes without letting it feel heavy or overwhelming. I believe there’s humor in most things, and I have a knack for finding the golden thread in life—the small, meaningful moments that make growth possible and even joyful. There are countless methods for healing & moving forward. I provide a judgement free place to find your way & figure it out. Commitment to my clients begins with a belief in the ability of individuals to advocate for themselves & choose their own path. You decide how you want to live your life.
I’m experienced at helping people tackle serious, sometimes scary changes without letting it feel heavy or overwhelming. I believe there’s humor in most things, and I have a knack for finding the golden thread in life—the small, meaningful moments that make growth possible and even joyful. There are countless methods for healing & moving forward. I provide a judgement free place to find your way & figure it out. Commitment to my clients begins with a belief in the ability of individuals to advocate for themselves & choose their own path. You decide how you want to live your life.
(630) 984-8820 View (630) 984-8820
Photo of Erica Hornthal, Counselor, LCPC, BC-DMT
Erica Hornthal
Counselor, LCPC, BC-DMT
Highland Park, IL 60035
I offer a body-centered approach to psychotherapy, influenced by the field of dance/ movement therapy.
Have you reached a plateau in talk therapy? Do you find it hard to talk about your feelings and emotions? Perhaps you find it difficult to get "out of your head." These are the top 3 reasons clients seek my services. All of my clients have expressed a difficulty in listening to and befriending their bodies. Since 93% of our communication is nonverbal, it is vital that we integrate the body into the healing process. The body holds everything, good, bad, and in between and if you want to make change permanent, the body and mind must be treated as one.
I offer a body-centered approach to psychotherapy, influenced by the field of dance/ movement therapy.
Have you reached a plateau in talk therapy? Do you find it hard to talk about your feelings and emotions? Perhaps you find it difficult to get "out of your head." These are the top 3 reasons clients seek my services. All of my clients have expressed a difficulty in listening to and befriending their bodies. Since 93% of our communication is nonverbal, it is vital that we integrate the body into the healing process. The body holds everything, good, bad, and in between and if you want to make change permanent, the body and mind must be treated as one.
(224) 263-1792 View (224) 263-1792
Photo of Rose Mary Spizzirri, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Rose Mary Spizzirri
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60301
Do you feel stuck or struggle with anxiety or depressive symptoms? We specialize in helping with childhood trauma, narcissistic abusive relationships and therapeutic parenting. Trauma can lead to many life issues & symptoms that we can help you manage & alleviate. Using trauma-informed attachment focused psychotherapy we provide parents with therapeutic skills to help their children heal. I have worked with families, kids, & adults for 35 of years who have various mental illnesses and emotional challenges. Everyone deserves happiness & we can help you through the healing process to restore your mind, body & spirit.
Do you feel stuck or struggle with anxiety or depressive symptoms? We specialize in helping with childhood trauma, narcissistic abusive relationships and therapeutic parenting. Trauma can lead to many life issues & symptoms that we can help you manage & alleviate. Using trauma-informed attachment focused psychotherapy we provide parents with therapeutic skills to help their children heal. I have worked with families, kids, & adults for 35 of years who have various mental illnesses and emotional challenges. Everyone deserves happiness & we can help you through the healing process to restore your mind, body & spirit.
(708) 697-8009 View (708) 697-8009
Photo of Heidi McCardell-Wentworth, Counselor, LCPC, BC-DMT
Heidi McCardell-Wentworth
Counselor, LCPC, BC-DMT
2 Endorsed
Elmhurst, IL 60126
Together we will blend CBT, DBT, and ACT with breathwork, mindfulness, and movement therapy.
Are you tired and stressed out? Do you wish you could start feeling better now? I can help you figure out how! I support adults who are experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship distress, disordered eating, and life transitions.
Together we will blend CBT, DBT, and ACT with breathwork, mindfulness, and movement therapy.
Are you tired and stressed out? Do you wish you could start feeling better now? I can help you figure out how! I support adults who are experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship distress, disordered eating, and life transitions.
(708) 726-3411 View (708) 726-3411
Photo of Lilia Laluna, Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Lilia Laluna
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Oak Park, IL 60301
I have experience utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and have been trained as a trauma-informed therapist and in Dance and Movement Therapy.
I am a psychotherapist with ten years of experience. My approach integrates client-centered therapy interventions, mindfulness, and body-oriented therapy techniques. I like to hold a respectful, compassionate, safe space, free of judgment that allows an individual their personal growth and supports their healing processes. I focus on working with clients that have anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, life transition difficulties, relationship issues, satisfaction, meaning and purpose of life, trauma, grief, and loss.
I have experience utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and have been trained as a trauma-informed therapist and in Dance and Movement Therapy.
I am a psychotherapist with ten years of experience. My approach integrates client-centered therapy interventions, mindfulness, and body-oriented therapy techniques. I like to hold a respectful, compassionate, safe space, free of judgment that allows an individual their personal growth and supports their healing processes. I focus on working with clients that have anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, life transition difficulties, relationship issues, satisfaction, meaning and purpose of life, trauma, grief, and loss.
(708) 834-7072 View (708) 834-7072
Photo of Ariele Riboh, Counselor, MS, LCPC, BC-DMT, NCC
Ariele Riboh
Counselor, MS, LCPC, BC-DMT, NCC
6 Endorsed
Libertyville, IL 60048
Waitlist for new clients
Ariele is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Nationally Certified Counselor, as well as a Board-Certified Dance/ Movement Therapist.
That’s why my approach integrates mind and body. In our work together, we may use somatic awareness, grounding and movement-based interventions, trauma-informed CBT, mindfulness, breathwork, and parts-work to help you regulate your nervous system and process experiences safely and gradually. You don’t have to retell every detail to heal. We go at your pace.
Ariele is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Nationally Certified Counselor, as well as a Board-Certified Dance/ Movement Therapist.
That’s why my approach integrates mind and body. In our work together, we may use somatic awareness, grounding and movement-based interventions, trauma-informed CBT, mindfulness, breathwork, and parts-work to help you regulate your nervous system and process experiences safely and gradually. You don’t have to retell every detail to heal. We go at your pace.
(224) 549-2270 View (224) 549-2270

See more therapy options for Evanston

Dance Movement Therapy Therapists
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.

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.