Dance therapy

Dance therapy, or dance movement therapy is the psychotherapeutic use of movement (and dance) for emotional, cognitive, social, behavioural and physical conditions. It is a form of expressive therapy. Certified dance therapists hold a masters level of training.

Dance therapy is based on the premise that the body and mind are interrelated, that the state of the body can affect mental and emotional wellbeing both positively and negatively. In contrast to artistic dance, which is usually concerned with the aesthetic appearance of movement, dance therapy explores the nature all movement. Through observing and altering the kinesthetic movements of a client, dance movement therapists diagnose and help solve various psychological problems. As any conscious person can move on some level, this therapy can work work with any population.

Even standing still, sitting down, or moving hands in protest is considered an expression of movement in dance therapy. There are several different forms of application of dance therapy, including authentic movement, group work, individual clients, and individual forms generated by the therapist themselves.

Marion Chace is considered the principal founder of what is now dance therapy.