What is the American Dance Therapy Association?

The American Dance Therapy Association (ADTA) is a professional organization that promotes the use of dance and movement as a therapeutic tool. Founded in 1966, ADTA aims to support the field of dance therapy and foster professional development among dance therapists.

What is Dance Therapy?

Dance therapy, also known as dance/movement therapy (DMT), is a type of therapy that uses dance to help individuals express their emotions and improve their mental and physical health. It combines movement with creative expression to help individuals connect with their feelings in a safe and supportive environment.

Benefits of Dance Therapy

• Emotional Expression: Dance therapy allows individuals to express feelings that may be difficult to articulate with words.
• Physical Health: Movement can improve physical health, such as flexibility and coordination.
• Mental Well-Being: Engaging in dance can reduce stress and anxiety while promoting a sense of joy and accomplishment.

How Does Dance Therapy Work?

Dance therapy typically involves several steps:

1. Assessment: The therapist evaluates the individual’s physical and emotional needs.
2. Movement Exploration: The therapist guides the client through various movements to express feelings.
3. Creative Expression: Clients may be encouraged to create their own dance sequences or movements.
4. Reflection: After the session, clients reflect on their experiences and feelings.

Types of Dance Therapy

There are several approaches to dance therapy, including:

• Expressive Dance Therapy: Focuses on free movement to express emotions.
• Structured Dance Therapy: Involves specific movements or choreography to address particular issues.
• Somatic Dance Therapy: Combines dance with body awareness and mindfulness practices.

Real-Life Examples of Dance Therapy

• Children with Autism: Dance therapy can help children with autism improve social skills and emotional regulation by engaging in creative movement.
• Trauma Recovery: Survivors of trauma may find dance therapy beneficial in expressing feelings that are hard to verbalize, helping them to heal.
• Senior Fitness Programs: Many senior centers now incorporate dance therapy to enhance mobility and social interaction among older adults, promoting both physical and emotional health.

Getting Involved with ADTA

If you're interested in dance therapy, consider the following steps:

• Education: Look for programs that offer degrees or certifications in dance/movement therapy.
• Networking: Join the ADTA to connect with professionals and learn about workshops and conferences.
• Resources: ADTA provides various resources, including research articles, training opportunities, and a directory of certified dance therapists.

By engaging with the American Dance Therapy Association, individuals can explore the many ways dance therapy can enhance emotional expression and improve overall well-being.