Dance Movement Therapy in North Carolina

Photo of Adena Altschul - Guided-Alchemy, PLLC, PhD, Psychologist
Guided-Alchemy, PLLC
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28806  (Online Only)
Harmonizing and healing the mind-body-spirit through music, art, movement, ceremony & integration of non-ordinary states of consciousness.
You have BIG feelings and always have. You are sensitive to your environment, tuned into the subtle nuances and energies of the people/world around you. You feel it in your gut. You sense it in your body. You were bullied, shamed, or invalidated for these feelings growing up – told you were too sensitive. You learned to doubt, squash, numb, or project those feelings onto other people and things as a way to stay safe in a world that doesn't have time for such things. You people-please, overwork, over-think, detach. You run from your feelings until they suddenly consume you. Disconnect or engulfed. You crave harmony inside and out.
Harmonizing and healing the mind-body-spirit through music, art, movement, ceremony & integration of non-ordinary states of consciousness.
You have BIG feelings and always have. You are sensitive to your environment, tuned into the subtle nuances and energies of the people/world around you. You feel it in your gut. You sense it in your body. You were bullied, shamed, or invalidated for these feelings growing up – told you were too sensitive. You learned to doubt, squash, numb, or project those feelings onto other people and things as a way to stay safe in a world that doesn't have time for such things. You people-please, overwork, over-think, detach. You run from your feelings until they suddenly consume you. Disconnect or engulfed. You crave harmony inside and out.
(828) 888-9316 View (828) 888-9316
Photo of Katie Clay-Wakefield, MA, LCMHC
Katie Clay-Wakefield
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
My client-centered, developmentally-informed approach incorporates play, art, books, movement, role play and conversation to help young kids learn new skills and process important events.
All behavior is a form of communication and sometimes we need help interpreting what others are really asking for, especially when it comes to children. Young children can speak to us in unfamiliar ways. Your preschool or daycare may call to say your child has expressed their emotions inappropriately or acted out. You may find yourself tired and worried about your child, about childcare, or about your parenting. This is where I come in. I’ve worked with young children (0-6 years old) in schools, homes and community settings for 14 years, helping them find alternative ways to express themselves and process their emotions.
My client-centered, developmentally-informed approach incorporates play, art, books, movement, role play and conversation to help young kids learn new skills and process important events.
All behavior is a form of communication and sometimes we need help interpreting what others are really asking for, especially when it comes to children. Young children can speak to us in unfamiliar ways. Your preschool or daycare may call to say your child has expressed their emotions inappropriately or acted out. You may find yourself tired and worried about your child, about childcare, or about your parenting. This is where I come in. I’ve worked with young children (0-6 years old) in schools, homes and community settings for 14 years, helping them find alternative ways to express themselves and process their emotions.
(828) 818-8376 View (828) 818-8376
Photo of Virginia D Hill - Therapeutic Arts Center / Sharing Dance, LCMHC, BC-DMT, CRC
Therapeutic Arts Center / Sharing Dance
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, BC-DMT, CRC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27609
Experiencing ongoing, underlying anger? Having difficulty concentrating at times? Or problems sleeping? Overly anxious or feeling depressed? Or, is life a bit overwhelming at this time? If you answered “Yes” to any of these questions, know I understand that living life with these issues saps your joy, making it hard to move forward. As a dance/movement therapist, I use movement to provide a physical dimension to traditional “talk” therapies. Dance therapy allows clients to embody their thoughts and feelings, as well as to practice “walking-through” potential solutions.
Experiencing ongoing, underlying anger? Having difficulty concentrating at times? Or problems sleeping? Overly anxious or feeling depressed? Or, is life a bit overwhelming at this time? If you answered “Yes” to any of these questions, know I understand that living life with these issues saps your joy, making it hard to move forward. As a dance/movement therapist, I use movement to provide a physical dimension to traditional “talk” therapies. Dance therapy allows clients to embody their thoughts and feelings, as well as to practice “walking-through” potential solutions.
(984) 203-7406 View (984) 203-7406
Photo of Amy Borskey Duffer, MA, BC-DMT, LCAS, Counselor
Amy Borskey Duffer
Counselor, MA, BC-DMT, LCAS
Verified Verified
Fairview, NC 28730
I use a combination of talk therapy, movement and body practices, IFS, and coaching techniques.
I am especially passionate about supporting people in integrating transformational life experiences (defined by the one who experiences them), whether that be becoming a mother, medical trauma, or a psychedelic journey. I support people who are using psychedelics to promote self-actualization and the expansion of consciousness; I help them prepare for and integrate their experiences so they can see lasting change in their lives. I offer Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy for those receiving infusions or prescribed lozenges to use at home. You can find out more about Group KAP at www.groupkap.com
I use a combination of talk therapy, movement and body practices, IFS, and coaching techniques.
I am especially passionate about supporting people in integrating transformational life experiences (defined by the one who experiences them), whether that be becoming a mother, medical trauma, or a psychedelic journey. I support people who are using psychedelics to promote self-actualization and the expansion of consciousness; I help them prepare for and integrate their experiences so they can see lasting change in their lives. I offer Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy for those receiving infusions or prescribed lozenges to use at home. You can find out more about Group KAP at www.groupkap.com
(828) 382-8715 View (828) 382-8715
Photo of Larisa Kenney Hobbs, LCMHC, NCC, RYT-200, RPYT
Larisa Kenney Hobbs
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, NCC, RYT-200, RPYT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27101
I am an EMDR trained therapist with a certification in Expressive Arts Therapy. With over 10 years of experience as a yoga teacher, I bring a body-centered approach to my counseling work. I am passionate about integrating mind+body awareness with creativity to support mental well-being. I enjoy combining modalities of EMDR and expressive arts therapy. I believe the creative process to be a powerful tool in healing, often incorporating different expressive arts modalities, including writing, dance, movement, poetry, visual journaling, painting, drawing, and others.
I am an EMDR trained therapist with a certification in Expressive Arts Therapy. With over 10 years of experience as a yoga teacher, I bring a body-centered approach to my counseling work. I am passionate about integrating mind+body awareness with creativity to support mental well-being. I enjoy combining modalities of EMDR and expressive arts therapy. I believe the creative process to be a powerful tool in healing, often incorporating different expressive arts modalities, including writing, dance, movement, poetry, visual journaling, painting, drawing, and others.
(336) 891-9544 View (336) 891-9544
Photo of Mark Anthony Sturgis - Great Rose Counseling Associates , LCAS, LCMHC-A, CSAT-C, CSI, Counselor
Great Rose Counseling Associates
Counselor, LCAS, LCMHC-A, CSAT-C, CSI
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Concord, NC 28025
), men Issues, couple/family discord (family of addicts, codependency, communication issues), at risk youth and movement therapy.
I am a LCAS, LCMHCA, CSAT-C, CSI and I am a current PhD candidate with Liberty University's Counselor Education and Supervision program. I consider myself to be a seasoned professional with over 14 years of experience focusing on alcohol/drug addiction, sex/porn addiction and mental health concerns. I utilize different forms of psychotherapy for various concerns that may be hindering a person's level of functioning. Currently I only accept private pay. Advantages of private pay include: confidentiality, and avoiding diagnosis on health records. Super bills provided for reimbursement .
), men Issues, couple/family discord (family of addicts, codependency, communication issues), at risk youth and movement therapy.
I am a LCAS, LCMHCA, CSAT-C, CSI and I am a current PhD candidate with Liberty University's Counselor Education and Supervision program. I consider myself to be a seasoned professional with over 14 years of experience focusing on alcohol/drug addiction, sex/porn addiction and mental health concerns. I utilize different forms of psychotherapy for various concerns that may be hindering a person's level of functioning. Currently I only accept private pay. Advantages of private pay include: confidentiality, and avoiding diagnosis on health records. Super bills provided for reimbursement .
(704) 879-3756 View (704) 879-3756
Photo of Kristi Wrolstad, MS, LCMHC, SEP, ATR-BC, REAT, Counselor
Kristi Wrolstad
Counselor, MS, LCMHC, SEP, ATR-BC, REAT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801  (Online Only)
As a Board Certified Art Therapist and Registered Expressive Arts Therapist, I utilize art therapy, creative writing, poetry therapy, music therapy, and dance and movement therapy.
Hello. I’m delighted you found me. Let me tell you a bit about myself so you can get a feel for how we might work together. I have an adaptable, multifaceted approach that helps me meet each person where they are so I can best support them in their journey of healing and self-discovery. I specialize in trauma work and have experience working with depression, grief and loss, anxiety, and many other mental health challenges. I have been trained in Somatic and Attachment Focused EMDR and am an IFS Certified Therapist.
As a Board Certified Art Therapist and Registered Expressive Arts Therapist, I utilize art therapy, creative writing, poetry therapy, music therapy, and dance and movement therapy.
Hello. I’m delighted you found me. Let me tell you a bit about myself so you can get a feel for how we might work together. I have an adaptable, multifaceted approach that helps me meet each person where they are so I can best support them in their journey of healing and self-discovery. I specialize in trauma work and have experience working with depression, grief and loss, anxiety, and many other mental health challenges. I have been trained in Somatic and Attachment Focused EMDR and am an IFS Certified Therapist.
(828) 414-2856 View (828) 414-2856
Photo of Anne E Wiggins, MSW, LCSW, CTLE, CGP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anne E Wiggins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CTLE, CGP
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28273
I am happy to help you through movement or discussion in a non judgmental and safe environment by empowering you to own your experience, discover your strengths, and assert yourself to be able to solve your own problems, enhance self awareness, restore hope, take control, and maintain a fulfilling life.
I am a ADHD certified coach and mental health professional with 15 plus years of experience, specializing in working with all ages during stressful times. I assist with bringing oneself back to independence and improving self worth through movement therapy, solution focused CBT, and structure. When you feel out of control, rejected, or disappointed, I am here to assist you with finding peace of mind. I can provide problem solving, coping, and organizational skills to assist with mental clarity and wellness, as well as instilling hope. I am an empathetic and loving individual who easily understands what you might be going through.
I am happy to help you through movement or discussion in a non judgmental and safe environment by empowering you to own your experience, discover your strengths, and assert yourself to be able to solve your own problems, enhance self awareness, restore hope, take control, and maintain a fulfilling life.
I am a ADHD certified coach and mental health professional with 15 plus years of experience, specializing in working with all ages during stressful times. I assist with bringing oneself back to independence and improving self worth through movement therapy, solution focused CBT, and structure. When you feel out of control, rejected, or disappointed, I am here to assist you with finding peace of mind. I can provide problem solving, coping, and organizational skills to assist with mental clarity and wellness, as well as instilling hope. I am an empathetic and loving individual who easily understands what you might be going through.
(704) 490-4242 View (704) 490-4242
Photo of Stephanie Rauch - Rauch Mind Body Therapy, Stephanie Rauch, PhD,  , LPC, Trager
Rauch Mind Body Therapy
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, Stephanie Rauch, PhD, , LPC, Trager
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gastonia, NC 28052
Trager is a gentle type of movement education, I use these modalities to inform my work and overall orientation.
You do not have to be sick to get better. I believe in paying attention to experience not what is bad or wrong. We can all learn skills to improve. My past experience as a world ranked professional tennis player gives me insight to work with high school, collegiate and professional athletes or anyone in this age. I work from a depth model, which encourages self-exploration to improve skills. The exploration helps one become conscious of long standing coping mechanisms that may no longer be as valuable as they once were. Learning what you do that blocks happiness empowers you to make choices that lead to a satisfying life.
Trager is a gentle type of movement education, I use these modalities to inform my work and overall orientation.
You do not have to be sick to get better. I believe in paying attention to experience not what is bad or wrong. We can all learn skills to improve. My past experience as a world ranked professional tennis player gives me insight to work with high school, collegiate and professional athletes or anyone in this age. I work from a depth model, which encourages self-exploration to improve skills. The exploration helps one become conscious of long standing coping mechanisms that may no longer be as valuable as they once were. Learning what you do that blocks happiness empowers you to make choices that lead to a satisfying life.
(704) 869-2283 View (704) 869-2283
Photo of Sharon O'Connor, LPC, CWC, RYT, BCIM, CM, Counselor
Sharon O'Connor
Counselor, LPC, CWC, RYT, BCIM, CM
Verified Verified
Iron Station, NC 28080
I include integrative modalities such as movement, nutrition and meditation offering a body mind approach.
My ideal client is 20-99, willing to attend and participate in counseling. They want to be heard are willing to listen and actively engaged in trying something new. I believe it takes courage to reach out for guidance and support, which is why I respect clients autonomy, beliefs and values. Counseling is the process of moving forward through the difficulties and gaining the courage to seek your own path in life. My role is to facilitate this process using a variety of techniques based on a strong relationship. I am a former professor, university Director of Counseling, Corporate Employee Development Consultant & Mom.
I include integrative modalities such as movement, nutrition and meditation offering a body mind approach.
My ideal client is 20-99, willing to attend and participate in counseling. They want to be heard are willing to listen and actively engaged in trying something new. I believe it takes courage to reach out for guidance and support, which is why I respect clients autonomy, beliefs and values. Counseling is the process of moving forward through the difficulties and gaining the courage to seek your own path in life. My role is to facilitate this process using a variety of techniques based on a strong relationship. I am a former professor, university Director of Counseling, Corporate Employee Development Consultant & Mom.
(704) 440-5521 View (704) 440-5521
Photo of James Foote, LCSW, LCAS, SEP, CTT, RYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
James Foote
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS, SEP, CTT, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28803  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Hi there, you are not alone on this journey. I believe that therapy is most impactful when offered in a caring and empathetic setting. My counseling philosophy is centered on demonstrating authentic concern and regard for your needs. My goal is to establish a bond built on trust and teamwork. I provide a nurturing environment to delve into self-improvement and change. Together, we can focus on transforming old habits and beliefs to discover new purpose and guidance. If you need help, I am here to assist you. Please don't hesitate to contact me for a free consultation with no obligation or hurry.
Hi there, you are not alone on this journey. I believe that therapy is most impactful when offered in a caring and empathetic setting. My counseling philosophy is centered on demonstrating authentic concern and regard for your needs. My goal is to establish a bond built on trust and teamwork. I provide a nurturing environment to delve into self-improvement and change. Together, we can focus on transforming old habits and beliefs to discover new purpose and guidance. If you need help, I am here to assist you. Please don't hesitate to contact me for a free consultation with no obligation or hurry.
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Photo of Rebekah Holloman, LCMHCA
Rebekah Holloman
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Wilson, NC 27896
Waitlist for new clients
Maybe you are a go getter who has a good life but wants a great life. A person who pours out their time to everyone else but leaves little time for yourself. An individual that looks okay on the outside but is crippled by anxiety and panic on the inside. A millennial who gets on social media and immediately feels like you have to be more or do more to keep up. A perfectionist that worries and overthinks everything, I mean everything. Any of that sound true for you? I get it. Its easy to tie it all together and look perfect on the on the outside but feel far from perfect on the inside. It’s time for a change.
Maybe you are a go getter who has a good life but wants a great life. A person who pours out their time to everyone else but leaves little time for yourself. An individual that looks okay on the outside but is crippled by anxiety and panic on the inside. A millennial who gets on social media and immediately feels like you have to be more or do more to keep up. A perfectionist that worries and overthinks everything, I mean everything. Any of that sound true for you? I get it. Its easy to tie it all together and look perfect on the on the outside but feel far from perfect on the inside. It’s time for a change.
(252) 336-9694 View (252) 336-9694
Photo of April Allen, MA, LCMHCA, Counselor
April Allen
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27609
Life is a journey that we all get to shape in our own way. However, it can also bring challenges and sadness that we may not have planned for. I am here to walk alongside you on your journey, provide a listening ear, an encouraging word, and remind you that you are not alone. My goal is to create a safe and trusting environment where we can work together to identify your strengths and overcome any obstacles that may be preventing you from reaching your full potential.
Life is a journey that we all get to shape in our own way. However, it can also bring challenges and sadness that we may not have planned for. I am here to walk alongside you on your journey, provide a listening ear, an encouraging word, and remind you that you are not alone. My goal is to create a safe and trusting environment where we can work together to identify your strengths and overcome any obstacles that may be preventing you from reaching your full potential.
(919) 823-3771 View (919) 823-3771
Photo of Jason Lake, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jason Lake
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615
Choosing the right therapist can be a difficult decision; especially when they're working so closely with you or your child. You want someone who listens, understands and hears your concerns but is also supportive and nurturing. Let me begin by stating that I provide a safe environment where I incorporate empathy, encouragement, and laughter as part of the therapy process. But most importantly I believe in building a relationship with every person is the key to the healing process.
Choosing the right therapist can be a difficult decision; especially when they're working so closely with you or your child. You want someone who listens, understands and hears your concerns but is also supportive and nurturing. Let me begin by stating that I provide a safe environment where I incorporate empathy, encouragement, and laughter as part of the therapy process. But most importantly I believe in building a relationship with every person is the key to the healing process.
(919) 582-5005 View (919) 582-5005
Photo of Lauren Jenelle March, PsyD, LCAS, Psychologist
Lauren Jenelle March
Psychologist, PsyD, LCAS
Verified Verified
Sylva, NC 28779  (Online Only)
Founded on a person-centered approach, I believe that the professional relationship is a large part of the therapeutic work. Although I integrate several evidence-based modalities including cognitive-behavioral, mindfulness, somatic, psycho-dynamic, & motivational interviewing interventions, I welcome any presentation for both adults as well as youth.
Founded on a person-centered approach, I believe that the professional relationship is a large part of the therapeutic work. Although I integrate several evidence-based modalities including cognitive-behavioral, mindfulness, somatic, psycho-dynamic, & motivational interviewing interventions, I welcome any presentation for both adults as well as youth.
(828) 372-5855 View (828) 372-5855
Photo of Quintisha China, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Quintisha China
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mebane, NC 27302
CHRISTIAN COUNSELOR (Two different locations) We know how to ask the right questions! We know how to stretch! Stretching can feel uncomfortable but it conditions you to possess your victory to your expected end, promotes a new higher perspective, builds up development and hope, and brings a sense of wholeness. If you utilize your spiritual background or faith as one of your primary coping mechanism or lens towards your concerns in life, we are a great fit for you! Therapy style is direct, empathetic, and affirmative.
CHRISTIAN COUNSELOR (Two different locations) We know how to ask the right questions! We know how to stretch! Stretching can feel uncomfortable but it conditions you to possess your victory to your expected end, promotes a new higher perspective, builds up development and hope, and brings a sense of wholeness. If you utilize your spiritual background or faith as one of your primary coping mechanism or lens towards your concerns in life, we are a great fit for you! Therapy style is direct, empathetic, and affirmative.
(336) 793-9659 View (336) 793-9659
Photo of Choey Gilreath, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Choey Gilreath
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27101
Confronting & coping with challenges can be extremely difficult in this culture filled with pretension. You ever feel like you aren’t allowed to hurt, experience weakness or failure? Feeling trapped & stagnated by your fear? Worried & stressed out? Your confidence seems non-existent? Maybe, you're feeling defeated & overcome by what seems like unending pain. You’re not alone. I have been there too. One great thing about hurt, weakness & failure is that they are a part of the human experience & they can be limited. Instead of allowing challenges to paralyze your life, what if you could heal, grow & capitalize on them?
Confronting & coping with challenges can be extremely difficult in this culture filled with pretension. You ever feel like you aren’t allowed to hurt, experience weakness or failure? Feeling trapped & stagnated by your fear? Worried & stressed out? Your confidence seems non-existent? Maybe, you're feeling defeated & overcome by what seems like unending pain. You’re not alone. I have been there too. One great thing about hurt, weakness & failure is that they are a part of the human experience & they can be limited. Instead of allowing challenges to paralyze your life, what if you could heal, grow & capitalize on them?
(336) 396-7572 View (336) 396-7572
Photo of Damaris Cortes-Figueroa - DC Wellness, LCMHC, MS/P, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
DC Wellness
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, MS/P, NCC
Verified Verified
Waitlist for new clients
Damaris works as an outpatient/school-based counselor providing services to both children and adults in English, Spanish, and American Sign Language (ASL). Damaris loves to listen to people and guide them to identify and build their strengths on what they truly love. Some of the issues she currently addresses include understanding and managing anxiety, defiant behaviors, bipolar disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), as well as navigating new mental health and physical health diagnosis, grief or divorce.
Damaris works as an outpatient/school-based counselor providing services to both children and adults in English, Spanish, and American Sign Language (ASL). Damaris loves to listen to people and guide them to identify and build their strengths on what they truly love. Some of the issues she currently addresses include understanding and managing anxiety, defiant behaviors, bipolar disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), as well as navigating new mental health and physical health diagnosis, grief or divorce.
(828) 385-5535 View (828) 385-5535
Photo of Cynthia Lewis Gaskins - Roots to Blooms Counseling PLLC , LCMHCS , LCAS, CCS, LPC, Counselor
Roots to Blooms Counseling PLLC
Counselor, LCMHCS , LCAS, CCS, LPC
Verified Verified
New Bern, NC 28562  (Online Only)
I HAVE OPENINGS FOR NEW CLIENTS!! Are you feeling stuck? Do you feel trapped by your strong emotional reactions? Are you feeling alone and disconnected in your relationship? Anxious or not good enough? We all have moments in our lives when we need support, and we are not meant to suffer alone. There is no shame in reaching out for help. I help clients work through current struggles & emotional pain by so they can experience calm, self-compassion, freedom and meaning in their lives.
I HAVE OPENINGS FOR NEW CLIENTS!! Are you feeling stuck? Do you feel trapped by your strong emotional reactions? Are you feeling alone and disconnected in your relationship? Anxious or not good enough? We all have moments in our lives when we need support, and we are not meant to suffer alone. There is no shame in reaching out for help. I help clients work through current struggles & emotional pain by so they can experience calm, self-compassion, freedom and meaning in their lives.
(252) 336-9687 View (252) 336-9687
Photo of Robyn Olsen-Nicotra - Artocin Psyche’ Counseling & Consulting, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Artocin Psyche’ Counseling & Consulting
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28409
At Artocin Psyche’ we work with clients through a Mind-Body-Spirit perspective, where we assess each area as we move through therapy together with clients on their life journey. We are very attentive to our client’s issues so we are able to tailor the psychotherapy to each client’s issues. As we work with our clients through Mind-Body-Spirit, we believe the therapeutic relationship is vitally important to the therapy process. We utilize an eclectic blend of therapy models and techniques, including somatic psychotherapies, and upon request spiritual therapies as well. We also provide “Utility”, simply-homework. Ask us about UTILITY
At Artocin Psyche’ we work with clients through a Mind-Body-Spirit perspective, where we assess each area as we move through therapy together with clients on their life journey. We are very attentive to our client’s issues so we are able to tailor the psychotherapy to each client’s issues. As we work with our clients through Mind-Body-Spirit, we believe the therapeutic relationship is vitally important to the therapy process. We utilize an eclectic blend of therapy models and techniques, including somatic psychotherapies, and upon request spiritual therapies as well. We also provide “Utility”, simply-homework. Ask us about UTILITY
(910) 541-9126 View (910) 541-9126
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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.