Dance Movement Therapy and drawing

In Dance Movement Therapy (a Creative Arts Therapy), therapists use a variety of tools. As a person who is trained in the Halprin Method, one tool is the use of drawn images. When I work with clients I use art in service to therapy, allowing the client to draw before moving so the image becomes a prop, and/or a drawing after moving allowing the client to draw their experience.

In the creative arts process, the symbols that are created contain valuable information which speak to the circumstances of life. The unique aspect of the creative arts is that it often taps into the subconscious using a different part of the brain to express than what is used to verbalize

When using drawings with clients I look beyond the psycho pathological perspective, and view the work for its intrinsic value as an expression. I acknowledge the universality of images and symbols with an open mind to the uniqueness and specific feeling content of the client’s creation.

Unknown's avatar

About RichardB

I am trained and work as a Creative Arts Therapist specializing in group therapy. I have passionately studied, worked, and taught as a hands-on practitioner of the Creative/Expressive and Healing Arts since 1983 integrating various modalities working in a variety of clinical and non-clinical settings. I currently provide Creative Arts and Counseling services to nonprofit agencies as well as occasionally teaching classes and workshops in communities of faith. I use compassion and acceptance to create an environment that is safe and nurturing for all individuals and groups. In my spare time I engage in research and write articles on a variety of subjects, create: poems, music, abstract artwork, and photograph nature.
This entry was posted in Art, creative arts therapy, Dance Movement Therapy and tagged , , , , , , , , , , , . Bookmark the permalink.

2 Responses to Dance Movement Therapy and drawing

  1. ISMETA's avatar ISMETA says:

    Hello – Your interests and professional practice seem aligned with the activities and mission of ISMETA, and I wonder if you have considered becoming a member. Practitioners of somatic movement are recognized internationally as professional and skilled in their craft when registered with us. ISMETA also has reviews training programs and has a growing list of Member Organizations.

    Thank you for your support of somatic movement and education.

    best,
    Anneliese

    Like

Leave a comment