Let yourself EXPRESS. Somatic focused therapy can help release stored emotions.
Photo by Mike Tan
What is Dance/Movement Therapy?
I describe Dance/Movement Therapy (DMT) as:
a somatic approach to counselling that gives individuals an opportunity to understand themselves, their emotions, and their thought processes from a new and embodied perspective.
DMT does not necessarily involve “dancing” as we typically think of it.
It is a therapeutic style that trusts the wisdom of the body, and supports individuals to process experiences and emotions from a body-based lens.
The American Dance Therapy Association (ADTA) defines Dance/Movement Therapy (DMT) as the psychotherapeutic use of movement to promote emotional, social, cognitive and physical integration of the individual.
The Dance/Movement Therapy Association of Canada (DMTAC) says that DMT is based on the premise that thoughts, feelings and the experience of self are expressed through the body and movement. It is a relational process that integrates emotional, cognitive, physical and social aspects of self.
Who can benefit from Dance/Movement Therapy?
All humans inhabiting a body can experience benefits from Dance/Movement Therapy.
Marie-Claire has worked with a wide range of physical and cognitive abilities, ages, and emotional concerns.
Dance/Movement Therapy can be particularly beneficial for:
Children
Teenagers
Adults
Couples
Non-Verbal Individuals
Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
Individuals with sensory sensitivities
Individuals struggling with addiction
Individuals who have experienced T/trauma
Individuals who experience anxiety
Individuals who experience depression
Individuals who identify with ADD/ADHD diagnoses
Individuals experiencing grief and loss
Individuals processing challenging emotional transitions
and more…
Photo from classes at Edelweiss Preparatory School
When people hear the word “dance”, all kinds of pre-conceived notions may surface.
But ultimately…
It begins with breath. It begins with acknowledgement of the body and our emotional connections to physical sensations.
If the word “dance” throws you off, stay connected to the word “movement” - and consider this practice as a somatic invitation into alignment with your body’s wisdom.
