Dance Movement Therapy in Denver, CO

Photo of Molly Arney Berrios, LPC, BC-DMT, CT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Molly Arney Berrios
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, BC-DMT, CT
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80203
Molly is a multi-passionate, Licensed Professional Counselor and Board-Certified Dance/ Movement Therapist specializing in Post-Traumatic Stress, Medical Trauma, Depth Work, and Grief & Loss (death and non-death related loss). Molly has earned degrees in Music Therapy and Dance/ Movement Therapy and is trained in The Bonny Method of Guided Imagery and Music, Trauma-informed Yoga, and Integrative Thanatology.
Molly is a multi-passionate, Licensed Professional Counselor and Board-Certified Dance/ Movement Therapist specializing in Post-Traumatic Stress, Medical Trauma, Depth Work, and Grief & Loss (death and non-death related loss). Molly has earned degrees in Music Therapy and Dance/ Movement Therapy and is trained in The Bonny Method of Guided Imagery and Music, Trauma-informed Yoga, and Integrative Thanatology.
(720) 230-1043 View (720) 230-1043
Photo of Lucia Bennett, LPC, R-DMT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lucia Bennett
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, R-DMT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80204
If you are highly sensitive and/or neurodivergent and you're feeling all talked out, or like you have all the insight but haven't been able to shift in the ways that you want to. It might be time to try somatic therapy. As a trained somatic therapist, I support you in deepening your relationship with your body and understanding the language it speaks—including how trauma may have manifested in your nervous system and is impacting your life today. Through embodied awareness, gentle movement, imagery, and energetic work, we will uncover the unconscious scripts and wounds that your body has been holding to gently repattern them.
If you are highly sensitive and/or neurodivergent and you're feeling all talked out, or like you have all the insight but haven't been able to shift in the ways that you want to. It might be time to try somatic therapy. As a trained somatic therapist, I support you in deepening your relationship with your body and understanding the language it speaks—including how trauma may have manifested in your nervous system and is impacting your life today. Through embodied awareness, gentle movement, imagery, and energetic work, we will uncover the unconscious scripts and wounds that your body has been holding to gently repattern them.
(720) 358-8869 View (720) 358-8869
Photo of Levonia Rose, LPC, R-DMT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Levonia Rose
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, R-DMT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80216
As a pediatric and adult mental health therapist, I uniquely integrate traditional therapy with dance/ movement therapy.
My ideal clients, both youth and adults, seek to express themselves through movement, using dance to articulate their personal narratives and heal. They aspire to develop behaviors that promote personal growth and transformation, leveraging movement as a tool for profound change and self-discovery. Their goal is to integrate movement into their lives to foster healing, empowerment, and a deeper connection to themselves.
As a pediatric and adult mental health therapist, I uniquely integrate traditional therapy with dance/ movement therapy.
My ideal clients, both youth and adults, seek to express themselves through movement, using dance to articulate their personal narratives and heal. They aspire to develop behaviors that promote personal growth and transformation, leveraging movement as a tool for profound change and self-discovery. Their goal is to integrate movement into their lives to foster healing, empowerment, and a deeper connection to themselves.
(720) 896-8842 View (720) 896-8842
Photo of Alicia Patterson, LPC, MA, R-DMT, CYT, LMT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alicia Patterson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, R-DMT, CYT, LMT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80205
Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) , Registered Dance Movement Therapist (RDMT) , and Licensed Massage Therapist (LMT), 15 years working in client care & treatment.
Virtual Sessions and In-Office Work Available in Denver CO. I've worked in client care for 15 years and believe having a stable foundation in mental health is a requirement for functioning with all we are facing today. I combine somatic work, trauma-informed care, attachment work, psycho-education, and nervous system support. I utilize EMDR, women's health education, couples work, meditation, & parts work. I enjoy working with high achievers with full lives. Other trainings I hold include motivational interviewing (MI), acceptance & commitment therapy (ACT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), and solution focused brief therapy.
Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) , Registered Dance Movement Therapist (RDMT) , and Licensed Massage Therapist (LMT), 15 years working in client care & treatment.
Virtual Sessions and In-Office Work Available in Denver CO. I've worked in client care for 15 years and believe having a stable foundation in mental health is a requirement for functioning with all we are facing today. I combine somatic work, trauma-informed care, attachment work, psycho-education, and nervous system support. I utilize EMDR, women's health education, couples work, meditation, & parts work. I enjoy working with high achievers with full lives. Other trainings I hold include motivational interviewing (MI), acceptance & commitment therapy (ACT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), and solution focused brief therapy.
(303) 529-9146 View (303) 529-9146
Photo of Stefanie Raccuglia, LPC, R-DMT, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Stefanie Raccuglia
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, R-DMT, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80204
As a Somatic therapist, LPC, and Dance/ Movement therapist, my background as a performance artist, teacher, and leader aids in my experiential and creative approach to therapy.
I help ambitious, creative, and compassionate professional women ready to make an impact on the world, but struggle with trusting their own instincts. If you are feeling misunderstood, alone, and/or fighting excessive perfectionism and self-judgement, I will support you in uncovering the tools you already possess for authentically connecting with your inner strength and wisdom. Unlike reading self-help blogs that don't work or struggling with self destructive habits and feeling badly about yourself, I will give you specific techniques to help you make better decisions, connect with your body and feel more empowered.
As a Somatic therapist, LPC, and Dance/ Movement therapist, my background as a performance artist, teacher, and leader aids in my experiential and creative approach to therapy.
I help ambitious, creative, and compassionate professional women ready to make an impact on the world, but struggle with trusting their own instincts. If you are feeling misunderstood, alone, and/or fighting excessive perfectionism and self-judgement, I will support you in uncovering the tools you already possess for authentically connecting with your inner strength and wisdom. Unlike reading self-help blogs that don't work or struggling with self destructive habits and feeling badly about yourself, I will give you specific techniques to help you make better decisions, connect with your body and feel more empowered.
(720) 799-0058 View (720) 799-0058
Photo of Tammi McCurdy, LPC , Licensed Professional Counselor
Tammi McCurdy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80210  (Online Only)
Get ready to experience some serious healing with Tammi's psychodynamic expressive and movement arts therapy. Tammi's got this cool approach that combines talking and getting creative to help you figure out who you really are. She's been doing this for over 19 years and has a ton of education under her belt, so you know you're in good hands. Plus, she's super chill and understanding, so you can explore, heal, and grow with your fam without any judgment. Trust the process and watch your mental wellness soar!
Get ready to experience some serious healing with Tammi's psychodynamic expressive and movement arts therapy. Tammi's got this cool approach that combines talking and getting creative to help you figure out who you really are. She's been doing this for over 19 years and has a ton of education under her belt, so you know you're in good hands. Plus, she's super chill and understanding, so you can explore, heal, and grow with your fam without any judgment. Trust the process and watch your mental wellness soar!
(855) 394-2810 View (855) 394-2810
Photo of Lexie Glisson, LCSW, RYT-200
Lexie Glisson
LCSW, RYT-200
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80219
I am an animal-assisted, nature-based therapist who specializes in helping children and adults express their most authentic, empowered Self through mindfulness, movement and playful connection. I've seen clients create ease and familiarity within their own body and truly heal from trauma by rewriting old stories. Together we can clarify, name and claim your natural wants and needs while learning to set clear, organic boundaries and cultivate the skills necessary to create inspiring relationships with family, friends, lovers, colleagues and Self. I work at a number of locations including Boulder, Lakewood, Denver, Lyons and Golden.
I am an animal-assisted, nature-based therapist who specializes in helping children and adults express their most authentic, empowered Self through mindfulness, movement and playful connection. I've seen clients create ease and familiarity within their own body and truly heal from trauma by rewriting old stories. Together we can clarify, name and claim your natural wants and needs while learning to set clear, organic boundaries and cultivate the skills necessary to create inspiring relationships with family, friends, lovers, colleagues and Self. I work at a number of locations including Boulder, Lakewood, Denver, Lyons and Golden.
(720) 388-6412 View (720) 388-6412
Photo of Sonya Nance Rodriguez, PhD, LMFT-S, Nature, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sonya Nance Rodriguez
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT-S, Nature
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80212
Movement releases anxiety from the body, and nature broadens perspective while calming the nervous system.
Is change on your horizon, or have you recently walked through fire? Are you grieving and in need of a place to let it go or celebrate it? Let's go play outside!
Movement releases anxiety from the body, and nature broadens perspective while calming the nervous system.
Is change on your horizon, or have you recently walked through fire? Are you grieving and in need of a place to let it go or celebrate it? Let's go play outside!
(720) 637-2817 View (720) 637-2817
Photo of Dr. Ashlie Bell - NeuroGrove Integrative Neurotherapy, PhD, MD, ND, LCSW, BCN, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
NeuroGrove Integrative Neurotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, MD, ND, LCSW, BCN
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80219
We use advanced techniques like 3D brain imaging and comprehensive assessments to tailor effective programs that include neurofeedback, neurostimulation, psychotherapy, movement, mindfulness, nutrition, photobiomodulation.
At NeuroGrove, we offer integrative neurotherapy, psychotherapy, naturopathic, and somatic movement services that recognize the interconnectedness of the brain, mind, and body. Our approach aims to restore balance and harmony for complete well-being, addressing cognitive and emotional challenges like anxiety, depression, attention deficits, trauma and memory issues. Many of our clients seek our services when conventional medicine or psychotherapy alone haven't fully addressed their needs.
We use advanced techniques like 3D brain imaging and comprehensive assessments to tailor effective programs that include neurofeedback, neurostimulation, psychotherapy, movement, mindfulness, nutrition, photobiomodulation.
At NeuroGrove, we offer integrative neurotherapy, psychotherapy, naturopathic, and somatic movement services that recognize the interconnectedness of the brain, mind, and body. Our approach aims to restore balance and harmony for complete well-being, addressing cognitive and emotional challenges like anxiety, depression, attention deficits, trauma and memory issues. Many of our clients seek our services when conventional medicine or psychotherapy alone haven't fully addressed their needs.
(303) 828-7473 View (303) 828-7473
Photo of Melissa A Autry, LPC, R-DMT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Melissa A Autry
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, R-DMT
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80222
I specialize in the combined use of creative, somatic and cognitive modalities, using movement, art, play, mindfulness, and other experiential therapeutic interventions to address clinical and social concerns.
Are you, your child or teen, overwhelmed with the stresses of your world? Experiencing emotional and behavioral outbursts in response to this stress? Feeling drained and defeated? Together we can explore and process big emotions by focusing first on regulating our nervous systems and developing healthy relational experiences. With your openness and curiosity, we will embark on a journey of discovery, reflection and empowerment. You will dive into past experiences that live within the body as well as explore the connection between thoughts, feelings and behaviors in a safe and secure environment.
I specialize in the combined use of creative, somatic and cognitive modalities, using movement, art, play, mindfulness, and other experiential therapeutic interventions to address clinical and social concerns.
Are you, your child or teen, overwhelmed with the stresses of your world? Experiencing emotional and behavioral outbursts in response to this stress? Feeling drained and defeated? Together we can explore and process big emotions by focusing first on regulating our nervous systems and developing healthy relational experiences. With your openness and curiosity, we will embark on a journey of discovery, reflection and empowerment. You will dive into past experiences that live within the body as well as explore the connection between thoughts, feelings and behaviors in a safe and secure environment.
(720) 730-6415 View (720) 730-6415
Photo of Francisca Mix, MA, LPC, ACS, BC-DMT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Francisca Mix
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ACS, BC-DMT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80204  (Online Only)
A person’s vitality and life fulfillment can be enhanced through a warm and collaborative therapeutic relationship that enables healing, growth, and change to occur. Being a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and a Board Certified Dance/ Movement Therapist (BC-DMT) specializing in trauma, interpersonal dynamics, addiction, and general mental health for 20 years, I believe that much of our experiences are informed by our past, that our relationships are central to our well being, and that learning to acknowledge and accept all aspects of ourselves creates the potential to reach desired growth and life fulfillment.
A person’s vitality and life fulfillment can be enhanced through a warm and collaborative therapeutic relationship that enables healing, growth, and change to occur. Being a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and a Board Certified Dance/ Movement Therapist (BC-DMT) specializing in trauma, interpersonal dynamics, addiction, and general mental health for 20 years, I believe that much of our experiences are informed by our past, that our relationships are central to our well being, and that learning to acknowledge and accept all aspects of ourselves creates the potential to reach desired growth and life fulfillment.
(720) 458-9370 View (720) 458-9370
Photo of Claire Bailey - Claire Bailey / Bodyful Counseling, MA, RYT, LPCC
Claire Bailey / Bodyful Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, MA, RYT, LPCC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80014  (Online Only)
Congratulations for taking a step on your healing path! I look forward to walking with you in a collaborative process rooted in deep compassion, curiosity, and radical acceptance of what is present and what is possible. Our work together will be integrative and grounded in somatic psychotherapy, meaning we will continually invite the body forward through felt sensation, breath, and movement in addition to talk-based approaches. Step by step, you will gain greater access to your unique strengths and intrinsic wisdom as you uncover and work through obstacles to your growth and healing.
Congratulations for taking a step on your healing path! I look forward to walking with you in a collaborative process rooted in deep compassion, curiosity, and radical acceptance of what is present and what is possible. Our work together will be integrative and grounded in somatic psychotherapy, meaning we will continually invite the body forward through felt sensation, breath, and movement in addition to talk-based approaches. Step by step, you will gain greater access to your unique strengths and intrinsic wisdom as you uncover and work through obstacles to your growth and healing.
(720) 804-0472 View (720) 804-0472
Photo of Jennifer Santopietro - KidStuff Child and Family Counseling, P.C., LPC, LCSW, LMFT, Licensed Professional Counselor
KidStuff Child and Family Counseling, P.C.
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCSW, LMFT
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80022
Our therapists utilize many effective modalities including art and dance therapy, play therapy, EMDR therapy, and engaging talk therapy.
KidStuff Child & Family Counseling, P.C. specializes in helping kids, families and adults navigate life's challenges and improve overall wellness. LifeStuff, HardStuff, AdultStuff: whatever your reasons for seeking therapy, our therapists will collaborate with you to create a therapeutic experience to meet your needs. Our therapists are open and welcoming while supporting clients through their healing process. If you have Medicaid health insurance, commercial insurance, or are looking for a reasonably affordable cash-pay option, we have options for in-office and telehealth services.
Our therapists utilize many effective modalities including art and dance therapy, play therapy, EMDR therapy, and engaging talk therapy.
KidStuff Child & Family Counseling, P.C. specializes in helping kids, families and adults navigate life's challenges and improve overall wellness. LifeStuff, HardStuff, AdultStuff: whatever your reasons for seeking therapy, our therapists will collaborate with you to create a therapeutic experience to meet your needs. Our therapists are open and welcoming while supporting clients through their healing process. If you have Medicaid health insurance, commercial insurance, or are looking for a reasonably affordable cash-pay option, we have options for in-office and telehealth services.
(719) 394-9745 View (719) 394-9745
Photo of Shanti Finney-Krigel, LMHC, LPC, CDP, R-DMT, LADC
Shanti Finney-Krigel
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC, LPC, CDP, R-DMT, LADC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80002
I utilize certified EMDR, cognitive processing therapy for PTSD, somatic psychotherapy, cognitive- behavioral therapy, dance movement therapy, mindfulness techniques, as well as a handful of other evidence-based practices, to help my clients find freedom from old patterns that no longer serve them.
Current in-person openings in CT & telehealth openings for all of CT, WA and CO! Welcome to the Shanti Wellness Center. I'm Shanti, a compassionate licensed psychotherapist, dance movement therapist and chemical dependency clinician. I have been a dedicated licensed therapist for over 21 years. With deep compassion and non-judgmental mindful support, I hold a space for healing and growth to occur. I help clients heal through a wide variety of challenges including trauma, anxiety, depression, stress, grief, relationship challenges, domestic violence, chronic pain, eating disorders, sleep disorders, addiction, transitions and more.
I utilize certified EMDR, cognitive processing therapy for PTSD, somatic psychotherapy, cognitive- behavioral therapy, dance movement therapy, mindfulness techniques, as well as a handful of other evidence-based practices, to help my clients find freedom from old patterns that no longer serve them.
Current in-person openings in CT & telehealth openings for all of CT, WA and CO! Welcome to the Shanti Wellness Center. I'm Shanti, a compassionate licensed psychotherapist, dance movement therapist and chemical dependency clinician. I have been a dedicated licensed therapist for over 21 years. With deep compassion and non-judgmental mindful support, I hold a space for healing and growth to occur. I help clients heal through a wide variety of challenges including trauma, anxiety, depression, stress, grief, relationship challenges, domestic violence, chronic pain, eating disorders, sleep disorders, addiction, transitions and more.
(860) 831-4516 View (860) 831-4516
Photo of Darah Meyer - Mount Saint Vincent, MSW, LCSW
Mount Saint Vincent
MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80211
Mount Saint Vincent has been helping children and families in the Denver area for over 135 years. Let us help you and your child with our Pediatric Behavioral Health services: Outpatient Therapy, In-Home Therapy and Day Treatment. Our Masters level clinicians offer evidenced based counseling modalities specific to client needs, including: Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), Play Therapy, Trauma Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
Mount Saint Vincent has been helping children and families in the Denver area for over 135 years. Let us help you and your child with our Pediatric Behavioral Health services: Outpatient Therapy, In-Home Therapy and Day Treatment. Our Masters level clinicians offer evidenced based counseling modalities specific to client needs, including: Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), Play Therapy, Trauma Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
(720) 640-8471 View (720) 640-8471
Photo of Bridget Weigel, LPC
Bridget Weigel
LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80222
"Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can."   -Arthur Ashe-   There is no perfect time to get started with therapy. If you feel ready, I am here to be with you in your journey no matter where it leads. I support adults and couples navigating interpersonal communication struggles, relationship dynamics and transitions, grief, anxiety, depression, isolation, life transitions, and identity exploration. We’ll work together to deepen your understanding of yourself and your relationships and heal past wounds to open the door to a more enlivened everyday experience.
"Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can."   -Arthur Ashe-   There is no perfect time to get started with therapy. If you feel ready, I am here to be with you in your journey no matter where it leads. I support adults and couples navigating interpersonal communication struggles, relationship dynamics and transitions, grief, anxiety, depression, isolation, life transitions, and identity exploration. We’ll work together to deepen your understanding of yourself and your relationships and heal past wounds to open the door to a more enlivened everyday experience.
(833) 938-2733 View (833) 938-2733
Photo of Leah Raulerson, LPC , ACS, BCN, Licensed Professional Counselor
Leah Raulerson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC , ACS, BCN
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80222
Everyone wants to feel better, but I want to know: how does that look for you? My style is compassionate, trauma-informed, and client-centered, integrating concepts of somatic work, DBT, existential psychotherapy, parts work, EMDR, Neurostimulation and Neurofeedback. I specialize in working with adult survivors of childhood sexual assault, domestic violence, emotional abuse and neglect, grief and loss, and other traumas. My clients are living with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, grief, life transitions, and existential questions.
Everyone wants to feel better, but I want to know: how does that look for you? My style is compassionate, trauma-informed, and client-centered, integrating concepts of somatic work, DBT, existential psychotherapy, parts work, EMDR, Neurostimulation and Neurofeedback. I specialize in working with adult survivors of childhood sexual assault, domestic violence, emotional abuse and neglect, grief and loss, and other traumas. My clients are living with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, grief, life transitions, and existential questions.
(720) 702-4740 View (720) 702-4740
Photo of Ellie Brown, LSW
Ellie Brown
Clinical Social Work Candidate, LSW
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80211  (Online Only)
Maybe you are asking yourself; some of these questions. - How can I stop worrying so much? How can I find hope again? How can I develop the relationships and connections I truly desire? How can I understand and manage big emotions and triggers? How can I get unstuck and move forward in the ways I want to in my life? How can I fill this big emptiness I feel and find joy again?
Maybe you are asking yourself; some of these questions. - How can I stop worrying so much? How can I find hope again? How can I develop the relationships and connections I truly desire? How can I understand and manage big emotions and triggers? How can I get unstuck and move forward in the ways I want to in my life? How can I fill this big emptiness I feel and find joy again?
(720) 806-5793 View (720) 806-5793
Photo of Sue Relihan, Registered Psychotherapist
Sue Relihan
Registered Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80231  (Online Only)
Is the Stress of the world or your family getting you down ? Would you prefer to feel calmer and have clarity around what to do next. I use the Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapy model in combination with Mind-Body Medicine, Somatic IFS, Polyvagal Theory, and Hypnotic Coaching to help you understand and make changes. Self-acceptance and self-compassion are the perfect foundation for making life changes and I can help you achieve them. I specialize in working with people who have experienced challenging situations at work and need a place to process them.
Is the Stress of the world or your family getting you down ? Would you prefer to feel calmer and have clarity around what to do next. I use the Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapy model in combination with Mind-Body Medicine, Somatic IFS, Polyvagal Theory, and Hypnotic Coaching to help you understand and make changes. Self-acceptance and self-compassion are the perfect foundation for making life changes and I can help you achieve them. I specialize in working with people who have experienced challenging situations at work and need a place to process them.
(720) 730-3671 View (720) 730-3671
Photo of Jeni Ambrose, PhD, Registered Psychotherapist
Jeni Ambrose
Registered Psychotherapist, PhD
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80206  (Online Only)
My practice is grounded in treating stress, trauma, and PTSD. Supporting a broad range of clients impacted by the debilitating effects of these conditions - abuse, abandonment, loss, physical injury, chronic illness, terminal illness, chronic pain, obesity, work-related stress, relationship issues, etc. I have a uniquely-effective approach for assisting those impacted by sexual trauma. It is my professional passion and commitment to use the most effective and rapid treatment methods available to help clients achieve the highest degree of personal liberation and authenticity. I assist clients from the comfort and convenience of their own home via web video (Skype, FaceTime) and by phone.
My practice is grounded in treating stress, trauma, and PTSD. Supporting a broad range of clients impacted by the debilitating effects of these conditions - abuse, abandonment, loss, physical injury, chronic illness, terminal illness, chronic pain, obesity, work-related stress, relationship issues, etc. I have a uniquely-effective approach for assisting those impacted by sexual trauma. It is my professional passion and commitment to use the most effective and rapid treatment methods available to help clients achieve the highest degree of personal liberation and authenticity. I assist clients from the comfort and convenience of their own home via web video (Skype, FaceTime) and by phone.
(720) 903-4938 View (720) 903-4938
1
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.