When people hear “Dance Movement Psychotherapy” (DMP), they might imagine learning a dance or dance class but the reality is very different.
A DMP session is a confidential and supportive space where a young person can explore their thoughts and feelings without needing to verbalise everything. We can use dance and movement to explore the things our minds cannot explain. No dance experience is needed for DMP sessions as the movement we use is for expressing our ‘inner world’ and does not have to look or be a certain way.
When we experience difficulties with our mental health it can feel like our body and mind are disconnected. DMP encourages the mind and body to work well together in a safe and therapeutic environment.
As children learn through play and movement before using words, DMP allows us to connect to our early life experiences and understand more about ourselves. We still talk in DMP sessions, but it can be as little or as much as the young person likes.
A DMP session can include:
- A warm up with games and activities
- Using movements and play to express ourselves
- Regulating the body through breathing exercises, stretching, dance
- Building body awareness
- Using metaphors and imagery to explore what’s important to you
- Relaxation techniques
DMP provides a young person with a better understanding of their body’s response to things like stress and anxiety. It also equips them with regulation skills to cope with life’s challenges and strengthen their relationships with others.
