What is Drama Therapy?
Many people will often ask ‘is it therapy for actors?’, ‘do you act out your problems?’, do you have to be able to act?’ or ‘is it just for children?’. But the most popular is ‘what is drama therapy?’
So what is it?
Drama Therapy is a creative psychological therapy suitable for individual and group work. It utilises creative methods to help facilitate personal growth and development and bring about emotional, psychological and social change.
The use of metaphor and distance are core aspects of drama therapy and this enables clients to feel safe in therapy. Being able to express yourself or talking about your feelings is not always easy for adults or young children, particularly if they have been through some trauma. Drama Therapy therefore keeps the client safe by ensuring they are not re-traumatised.
How does it work?
Drama therapy employs the use of different creative mediums to help individuals express themselves and find something that works for them. This can include the use of masks, puppets, story work, play, drawing, painting, role play, movement, games and of course – talking. Clients are encouraged to reflect on their individual processes and the therapist ensures the space is safe, boundaries in place and always confidential.
Drama Therapy allows you to literally step outside the box, put yourself in someone else’s shoes and get it off your chest!
The goals of ReAct it Out drama therapy
- Improve interpersonal and relationship skills
- Integrate physical and emotional well-being
- Achieve personal growth and self-awareness
- Improve overall quality of life
- Promote positive behavioural changes