Dance Movement Therapy in Palm Beach Gardens, FL

Photo of Elisa Mott Jones, EdS, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Elisa Mott Jones
Counselor, EdS, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33418
If you feel worn down and defeated, do not give up! I can help you uncover what you really want and guide you towards creating lasting, satisfying change. Maybe you're working to keep it all under control, but feel so tired and overwhelmed all the time. You keep checking things off your to-do list but still feel like you're drowning. If pausing and breathing (even for a moment) seems impossible, yet very appealing, let's begin your healing journey today. I help my clients manage anxiety and stress by quieting that voice that keeps yelling "you're not doing enough". I can help you clear obstacles so you can achieve your goals.
If you feel worn down and defeated, do not give up! I can help you uncover what you really want and guide you towards creating lasting, satisfying change. Maybe you're working to keep it all under control, but feel so tired and overwhelmed all the time. You keep checking things off your to-do list but still feel like you're drowning. If pausing and breathing (even for a moment) seems impossible, yet very appealing, let's begin your healing journey today. I help my clients manage anxiety and stress by quieting that voice that keeps yelling "you're not doing enough". I can help you clear obstacles so you can achieve your goals.
(561) 418-6569 View (561) 418-6569
Photo of Elaine Heroux, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elaine Heroux
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33403
If you are experiencing anxiety, depression, hopelessness and frustration your inner and outer worlds may not be in alignment. If you are living in the past, facing life transitions, having relationship problems or feeling there should be more to life, I can help shine a light on unconscious thoughts and beliefs that may be sabotaging your journey. Our night dreams are portals to the past, the future, the body and the next world. They contain immense wisdom and guidance. I see myself as a guide/midwife who will support you to follow an inner spiritual and psychological path which will help you and the way you see the world.
If you are experiencing anxiety, depression, hopelessness and frustration your inner and outer worlds may not be in alignment. If you are living in the past, facing life transitions, having relationship problems or feeling there should be more to life, I can help shine a light on unconscious thoughts and beliefs that may be sabotaging your journey. Our night dreams are portals to the past, the future, the body and the next world. They contain immense wisdom and guidance. I see myself as a guide/midwife who will support you to follow an inner spiritual and psychological path which will help you and the way you see the world.
(561) 250-7631 View (561) 250-7631
Photo of V. Ellaine Peck, LMHC, ATR, REAT, Counselor
V. Ellaine Peck
Counselor, LMHC, ATR, REAT
Verified Verified
Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33410
Navigating through life's transitions can be challenging for anyone. Whether you are healing from grief or trauma, coping with recovery, or choosing a new direction in your life, having someone to support you through the process facilitates healing. As a licensed mental health counselor, registered art therapist, registered expressive arts therapist, certified life coach, grief specialist, I use complementary processes to assist you in building on your strengths and attaining the personal growth you are committed to attaining. For over 34 years, I have assisted individuals, couples and groups with client centered therapy.
Navigating through life's transitions can be challenging for anyone. Whether you are healing from grief or trauma, coping with recovery, or choosing a new direction in your life, having someone to support you through the process facilitates healing. As a licensed mental health counselor, registered art therapist, registered expressive arts therapist, certified life coach, grief specialist, I use complementary processes to assist you in building on your strengths and attaining the personal growth you are committed to attaining. For over 34 years, I have assisted individuals, couples and groups with client centered therapy.
(561) 923-8691 View (561) 923-8691
Photo of Amy Beckler, LCSW, RYT-200, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Beckler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RYT-200
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33418  (Online Only)
If you're ready to embark on a journey of holistic healing, you've found the right place. Taking this step towards therapy is a courageous act, and I honor your willingness to seek support. In this space, your vulnerability is not only acknowledged but celebrated as a catalyst for growth. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I specialize in merging traditional talk therapy with powerful tools such as mindfulness, breath work, and somatic tracking. I am also certified in Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy. Together, we'll foster a connection between your mind, body, and spirit, creating a foundation for deep transformation.
If you're ready to embark on a journey of holistic healing, you've found the right place. Taking this step towards therapy is a courageous act, and I honor your willingness to seek support. In this space, your vulnerability is not only acknowledged but celebrated as a catalyst for growth. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I specialize in merging traditional talk therapy with powerful tools such as mindfulness, breath work, and somatic tracking. I am also certified in Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy. Together, we'll foster a connection between your mind, body, and spirit, creating a foundation for deep transformation.
(772) 320-5821 View (772) 320-5821
Photo of Nikiis Taylor - Pulling Others Up as I Rise, LLC, MS, CCMH, RMHCI
Pulling Others Up as I Rise, LLC
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MS, CCMH, RMHCI
Verified Verified
Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33410  (Online Only)
My ideal client population are adolescents and young adults ranging between the ages of 12 and 30. I take interest in working with that population because there are many mental and emotional challenges that arise during this time period such as struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, anger, codependency, past painful experiences/ trauma and identity challenges. I also enjoy working with the family unit as I take pride in being a Beacon of Light, Speaker of Truth, and Author of Hope. I am here to help you achieve your goals, maintain a peace of mind and confidently walk in your true essence.
My ideal client population are adolescents and young adults ranging between the ages of 12 and 30. I take interest in working with that population because there are many mental and emotional challenges that arise during this time period such as struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, anger, codependency, past painful experiences/ trauma and identity challenges. I also enjoy working with the family unit as I take pride in being a Beacon of Light, Speaker of Truth, and Author of Hope. I am here to help you achieve your goals, maintain a peace of mind and confidently walk in your true essence.
(404) 424-3000 View (404) 424-3000

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Christopher Michael Baird, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Christopher Michael Baird
Counselor, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Palm Beach, FL 33406  (Online Only)
Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT), Existential Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Hypnotherapy, Jungian Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Psychodynamic Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Somatic Therapy.
I have my Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and i'm trained in EMDR as well as a Neurolinguistic Programming Masters Level Practitioner alongside Hypnotherapy and EFT. I am Kripalu Yoga 200/hr Trained Instructor as well as Reiki Master and Vedic Thai Massage practitioner. I am also a Transformational Breath Facilitator in training. I am an Ontological Coach as well and a Transformational Coach. I am also a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor.
Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT), Existential Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Hypnotherapy, Jungian Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Psychodynamic Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Somatic Therapy.
I have my Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and i'm trained in EMDR as well as a Neurolinguistic Programming Masters Level Practitioner alongside Hypnotherapy and EFT. I am Kripalu Yoga 200/hr Trained Instructor as well as Reiki Master and Vedic Thai Massage practitioner. I am also a Transformational Breath Facilitator in training. I am an Ontological Coach as well and a Transformational Coach. I am also a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor.
(561) 861-2544 View (561) 861-2544
Photo of Lisa Rattiner Padilla Lcsw Reiki, LCSW, Reiki, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa Rattiner Padilla Lcsw Reiki
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, Reiki
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wellington, FL 33411  (Online Only)
I have a holistic practice that encompasses mindfulness techniques such as deep breathing exercises, positive affirmations, art and dance therapy. I have over 20 years of experience working with parents & families. Being a parent although rewarding can come with feelings of anxiety or depression. If you are feeling overwhelmed, overstimulated or anxious take the next step in feeling empowered. Together we can build your self-confidence, reduce your feelings of anxiety and reach your goals. I am passionate about supporting women's health as well as women going through infertility. I can provide supervision for clinical hours as well.
I have a holistic practice that encompasses mindfulness techniques such as deep breathing exercises, positive affirmations, art and dance therapy. I have over 20 years of experience working with parents & families. Being a parent although rewarding can come with feelings of anxiety or depression. If you are feeling overwhelmed, overstimulated or anxious take the next step in feeling empowered. Together we can build your self-confidence, reduce your feelings of anxiety and reach your goals. I am passionate about supporting women's health as well as women going through infertility. I can provide supervision for clinical hours as well.
(954) 833-6655 View (954) 833-6655
Photo of Level Up Treatment Center - We Level Up Addiction & Mental Health Treatment, MCAP, LMFT
We Level Up Addiction & Mental Health Treatment
MCAP, LMFT
Verified Verified
West Palm Beach, FL 33411
Nationally Recognized Therapy at We Level Up Treatment Center. Free 24/7 hotline & assessments. Get help, take your first step to get better! Your call is FREE. We're top addiction & behavioral experts backed by the Joint Commission's Accreditation held by the top 10% of treatment centers. Specializing in the treatment of alcohol & substance abuse along with dual diagnosis mental health cases like depression, mood and thought disorders. Treatment via cutting-edge therapy programs using advanced evidence-base modalities for improved recovery results. Offering on-site medical detox programs via world-class specialists to counseling..
Nationally Recognized Therapy at We Level Up Treatment Center. Free 24/7 hotline & assessments. Get help, take your first step to get better! Your call is FREE. We're top addiction & behavioral experts backed by the Joint Commission's Accreditation held by the top 10% of treatment centers. Specializing in the treatment of alcohol & substance abuse along with dual diagnosis mental health cases like depression, mood and thought disorders. Treatment via cutting-edge therapy programs using advanced evidence-base modalities for improved recovery results. Offering on-site medical detox programs via world-class specialists to counseling..
(954) 231-3294 View (954) 231-3294
Photo of Kathryn Shafer, PhD, CAP, RYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kathryn Shafer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, CAP, RYT
Verified Verified
Jupiter, FL 33477
Life is not easy and can be at times difficult. Sometimes we cannot turn to our family, friends, or may not feel we have the support system we can trust to share the intimate details about our life. Here in this confidential office you obtain professional guidance from a seasoned clinician using a variety of approaches for addressing relationships, trauma, addiction, feeling alone, depressed, or not motivated to change. It can be helpful to have "a private friend" to talk to in a confidential place without fear of being judged, talked about, knowing you have their undivided attention and that this professional has got your back.
Life is not easy and can be at times difficult. Sometimes we cannot turn to our family, friends, or may not feel we have the support system we can trust to share the intimate details about our life. Here in this confidential office you obtain professional guidance from a seasoned clinician using a variety of approaches for addressing relationships, trauma, addiction, feeling alone, depressed, or not motivated to change. It can be helpful to have "a private friend" to talk to in a confidential place without fear of being judged, talked about, knowing you have their undivided attention and that this professional has got your back.
(561) 532-1128 View (561) 532-1128
Photo of Jaki Neering - Inspire Recovery, MSW
Inspire Recovery
Registered Social Worker Intern, MSW
Not Verified Not Verified
West Palm Beach, FL 33401
Jaki Neering, MSW, takes a loving & progressive approach when working with the LGBTQIA+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex, Asexual + community. She graduated from Barry University in 2016 with a Master in Social Work. Jaki believes in the power of trauma-informed interventions, which recognizes human vulnerability but focuses on finding strengths, resources, and capacity for healing and recovery, by promoting factors that will enhance a person's resilience. She has a passion for empowering marginalized populations, and she is devoted to serving the LGBTQIA+ population suffering with alcoholism, drug addiction & mental health issues. Jaki assists individuals in finding their voice, and advocates for self-expression. Additionally, Jaki believes in the transformation of recovery, and is passionate about helping others find their truth.
Jaki Neering, MSW, takes a loving & progressive approach when working with the LGBTQIA+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex, Asexual + community. She graduated from Barry University in 2016 with a Master in Social Work. Jaki believes in the power of trauma-informed interventions, which recognizes human vulnerability but focuses on finding strengths, resources, and capacity for healing and recovery, by promoting factors that will enhance a person's resilience. She has a passion for empowering marginalized populations, and she is devoted to serving the LGBTQIA+ population suffering with alcoholism, drug addiction & mental health issues. Jaki assists individuals in finding their voice, and advocates for self-expression. Additionally, Jaki believes in the transformation of recovery, and is passionate about helping others find their truth.
(561) 475-4729 View (561) 475-4729
Photo of Patricia María Andino Pabón, MS, LMHC
Patricia María Andino Pabón
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
West Palm Beach, FL 33417  (Online Only)
Patricia Andino Pabón was introduced to the field of Mental Health and Substance Use Disorders treatment in 2017. Where she gained experience treating individuals with co-occurring disorders such as Depression, Anxiety, Adjustment, Alcohol Use, and other Substance Use. Patricia’s experience working with a population of different socio-economic backgrounds, ethnicity, race, sexual orientation, gender, functional diversity, and age; has equipped her to support her clients as they face multiple challenges. While being able to meet them where they are.
Patricia Andino Pabón was introduced to the field of Mental Health and Substance Use Disorders treatment in 2017. Where she gained experience treating individuals with co-occurring disorders such as Depression, Anxiety, Adjustment, Alcohol Use, and other Substance Use. Patricia’s experience working with a population of different socio-economic backgrounds, ethnicity, race, sexual orientation, gender, functional diversity, and age; has equipped her to support her clients as they face multiple challenges. While being able to meet them where they are.
(561) 821-3244 View (561) 821-3244
Photo of Elizabeth O Oriola-Otenaike, PsyD, Psychologist
Elizabeth O Oriola-Otenaike
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Palm Beach, FL 33480  (Online Only)
Are you looking for an experienced and compassionate psychologist to support your wellness efforts? Do you want to Flourish and Be Well? Do you seek resources in your growth efforts and goals? Do you need psychological assessment, diagnosis and/or treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADD/ADHD and other Pervasive Developmental Disorders? Together, we take a holistic approach as we explore physical, psychological, emotional, intellectual, environmental, spiritual, cultural and relational influences, develop creative solutions and identify resources that will strengthen and help you reach your therapeutic and/or wellness goals.
Are you looking for an experienced and compassionate psychologist to support your wellness efforts? Do you want to Flourish and Be Well? Do you seek resources in your growth efforts and goals? Do you need psychological assessment, diagnosis and/or treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADD/ADHD and other Pervasive Developmental Disorders? Together, we take a holistic approach as we explore physical, psychological, emotional, intellectual, environmental, spiritual, cultural and relational influences, develop creative solutions and identify resources that will strengthen and help you reach your therapeutic and/or wellness goals.
(817) 756-7943 View (817) 756-7943
Photo of Mara Ann Goodman-Davies - Mara Therapy, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mara Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Palm Beach, FL 33480  (Online Only)
Hello for and thank you for taking the time to view my profile. Excited to say I am currently accepting clients! I offer compassionate, heart-and-soul-centered, nonjudgmental, supportive, strengths-based therapy in the comfort of your own home via telehealth. I work with teens, kids, families, parents, individuals and couples. I am trained at Simmons College and Harvard Medical School. You deserve the BEST! I became a therapist because I LOVE PEOPLE and I want to support you becoming the person you always wanted to be. I am not adverse to walking through tough stuff and lingering issues from the past and present that need healing.
Hello for and thank you for taking the time to view my profile. Excited to say I am currently accepting clients! I offer compassionate, heart-and-soul-centered, nonjudgmental, supportive, strengths-based therapy in the comfort of your own home via telehealth. I work with teens, kids, families, parents, individuals and couples. I am trained at Simmons College and Harvard Medical School. You deserve the BEST! I became a therapist because I LOVE PEOPLE and I want to support you becoming the person you always wanted to be. I am not adverse to walking through tough stuff and lingering issues from the past and present that need healing.
(413) 207-0984 View (413) 207-0984
Photo of Jiahui Guo, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jiahui Guo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Palm Beach, FL 33480  (Online Only)
I am a licensed psychotherapist (LCSW) in Florida, Colorado and Virginia, an empathetic healer, an avid mental health awareness advocate. I specialize in working with individuals struggling with addiction, depression, anxiety, trauma, stress, codependency issues, self-esteem issues, anger management issues and other emotional struggles. My passion as a therapist is to assist you in developing skills to help you find the happiness and abundance from within. I strive to create a safe space where you can feel comfortable in sharing your perspectives, hopes, aspirations, fears, and growths.
I am a licensed psychotherapist (LCSW) in Florida, Colorado and Virginia, an empathetic healer, an avid mental health awareness advocate. I specialize in working with individuals struggling with addiction, depression, anxiety, trauma, stress, codependency issues, self-esteem issues, anger management issues and other emotional struggles. My passion as a therapist is to assist you in developing skills to help you find the happiness and abundance from within. I strive to create a safe space where you can feel comfortable in sharing your perspectives, hopes, aspirations, fears, and growths.
(561) 944-9366 View (561) 944-9366
Photo of Terry L Roberto, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Terry L Roberto
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wellington, FL 33411  (Online Only)
Are you feeling like there is more to life? Are there things that may be holding you back from true happiness? Has life dealt you some hardships? Congratulations for taking the first step to your well being! Recognizing areas in your life that need attention is step one. Taking the time to look deep into your emotional being is step two. Step three is the work, that's were I come in. I will be your guide through your personal journey. I specialize in Christian counseling, integrating many types of modalities. I you love the outdoors I offer walking sessions.
Are you feeling like there is more to life? Are there things that may be holding you back from true happiness? Has life dealt you some hardships? Congratulations for taking the first step to your well being! Recognizing areas in your life that need attention is step one. Taking the time to look deep into your emotional being is step two. Step three is the work, that's were I come in. I will be your guide through your personal journey. I specialize in Christian counseling, integrating many types of modalities. I you love the outdoors I offer walking sessions.
(813) 501-6245 View (813) 501-6245
Photo of Kelly Pierce Pineda, LMFT, PMH-C, IMH-E, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kelly Pierce Pineda
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, PMH-C, IMH-E
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Palm Beach, FL 33480  (Online Only)
I specialize in attachment/relationship issues, women's emotional/mental health, trauma, maternal and perinatal mental health disorders. I offer a collaborative, therapeutic partnership that explores the body, mind, spirit connection, and utilizes your strengths, struggles, past experiences and future hopes to create opportunities for change.
I specialize in attachment/relationship issues, women's emotional/mental health, trauma, maternal and perinatal mental health disorders. I offer a collaborative, therapeutic partnership that explores the body, mind, spirit connection, and utilizes your strengths, struggles, past experiences and future hopes to create opportunities for change.
(954) 210-9298 View (954) 210-9298
Photo of Jen Aleixo, RMHCI, RBT, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jen Aleixo
Pre-Licensed Professional, RMHCI, RBT, MS
Verified Verified
West Palm Beach, FL 33401
Welcome to a sanctuary of healing! I am dedicated to cultivating a safe and nurturing environment where clients can freely explore their emotions, beliefs, and experiences without judgment. I specialize in crafting personalized solutions for clients facing life transitions, relationship dynamics, self-worth struggles, and behavior modification. Additionally, I provide support and guidance to both children and women navigating the complexities of anxiety, depression, ADD/ADHD, and Autism Spectrum Disorder. It is my passion to empower women and children to harness their inner strengths and resources on their personal journey.
Welcome to a sanctuary of healing! I am dedicated to cultivating a safe and nurturing environment where clients can freely explore their emotions, beliefs, and experiences without judgment. I specialize in crafting personalized solutions for clients facing life transitions, relationship dynamics, self-worth struggles, and behavior modification. Additionally, I provide support and guidance to both children and women navigating the complexities of anxiety, depression, ADD/ADHD, and Autism Spectrum Disorder. It is my passion to empower women and children to harness their inner strengths and resources on their personal journey.
(772) 404-3829 View (772) 404-3829
Photo of Andrea Michelle Tackore - Phenix Counseling, PLLC, PhD, LMHC, Counselor
Phenix Counseling, PLLC
Counselor, PhD, LMHC
Verified Verified
Palm Beach, FL 33480  (Online Only)
From the outside looking in, you have success...you have the education, the family, the expertise, the profession, or maybe all of the above but you feel stuck in some way. You want to find comfort, peace, stronger self esteem, authentic connections or joy but you're not sure how to obtain those? Our relationship with you becomes the base camp for challenging dysfunctional meanings and for living life in a completely different and healthier way! It's not about a quick fix, it's about your deep and lasting transformation.
From the outside looking in, you have success...you have the education, the family, the expertise, the profession, or maybe all of the above but you feel stuck in some way. You want to find comfort, peace, stronger self esteem, authentic connections or joy but you're not sure how to obtain those? Our relationship with you becomes the base camp for challenging dysfunctional meanings and for living life in a completely different and healthier way! It's not about a quick fix, it's about your deep and lasting transformation.
(689) 204-2412 View (689) 204-2412
Photo of Jessenia Acuna, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessenia Acuna
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
West Palm Beach, FL 33401  (Online Only)
Jessenia Acuna, LCSW, RYT is a holistic therapist seeing clients in New York and Florida. She focuses on working with high-achieving individuals struggling with anxiety, perfectionism, body image, and life transitions. She listens carefully and provide an evidence-based approach to help you discover new ways to reconnect with yourself, heal, and grow in a heal, and grow in a safe, kind, and compassionate way. Jessenia integrates CBT, mindfulness-based interventions, and other somatic practices to help individuals find the right approach to reach optimal health and wellbeing.
Jessenia Acuna, LCSW, RYT is a holistic therapist seeing clients in New York and Florida. She focuses on working with high-achieving individuals struggling with anxiety, perfectionism, body image, and life transitions. She listens carefully and provide an evidence-based approach to help you discover new ways to reconnect with yourself, heal, and grow in a heal, and grow in a safe, kind, and compassionate way. Jessenia integrates CBT, mindfulness-based interventions, and other somatic practices to help individuals find the right approach to reach optimal health and wellbeing.
(561) 783-3415 View (561) 783-3415

Online Therapists

Photo of Rebecca Russ, LMHC, R-DMT, Counselor
Rebecca Russ
Counselor, LMHC, R-DMT
Verified Verified
Coral Gables, FL 33134
I'm Rebecca Russ, a licensed mental health counselor and dance/movement therapist here in Miami. I specialize in helping individuals with anxiety spectrum disorders like OCD, PTSD, GAD, and also eating disorders. My approach is warm, non-judgmental, and direct, focusing on practical strategies to address underlying issues with empathy and understanding.
I'm Rebecca Russ, a licensed mental health counselor and dance/movement therapist here in Miami. I specialize in helping individuals with anxiety spectrum disorders like OCD, PTSD, GAD, and also eating disorders. My approach is warm, non-judgmental, and direct, focusing on practical strategies to address underlying issues with empathy and understanding.
(786) 480-8854 View (786) 480-8854

See more therapy options for Palm Beach Gardens

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.