What is Dramatherapy? The intentional and systematic use of drama and theatre processes to achieve healthy psychological growth and change. Action methods, spontaneous and dramatic play, drama games, mime, movement, voice, role-play, scripts, masks, myths, stories, metaphor and symbolism are used to enable clients to express, experience and explore relevant issues. During my career in health care, I worked with many clients with acute and enduring mental illnesses, as a qualified and experienced Registered Mental Health Nurse RPN (NMBI 61340) and as a qualified Clinical Dramatherapist (MADT), I have developed a specific set of skills to assist people with any blocks they might have preventing them having an active and productive life. In my Dramatherapy practice, I assist people by exploring issues ‘within the metaphor', which means that difficult topics or emotions can be explored through the frame of, for example, a story, a poem, a play or a role, creating a safe distance between clients and their troubles.
“It’s my life, my script and I’m in the leading role” ©
Who can benefit? Dramatherapy's creative flexibility makes it an appropriate intervention for children, adolescents and the elderly. Dramatherapy offers a variety of working methods that are applicable to a wide variety of clients. Consequently, dramatherapists work in a diverse range of settings including mental health, education, services for people with intellectual and/or sensory disabilities, community settings, social and prison services, as well as private practice. The role of the dramatherapist is to develop a programme with appropriate aims, objectives and structures to meet the needs and abilities of the specific client group. A dramatic talent is not necessary for participation. The emphasis is on the experience of the group or individual, not on performance. A dramatherapy session takes place within clear boundaries that protect the client(s). It usually lasts between 40 and 90 minutes and contains five phases: Opening: creative check-in with the client(s). Focusing: warm-up activities to bring focus to the work of the group or individual. Core: group themes are explored through dramatic activities. Closure: de-roling and discussion/reflection on the work of the session. Completion: ensuring the work is left in the room.
Therapeutic Outcomes Therapeutic outcomes vary according to the setting, the dramatherapist’s specific approach, and, above all, the client’s presenting issues. Treatment goals can be summarised as follows: Emotional expression and/or containment. Gaining of distance and perspective in relation to issues, consequently enabling the development of a new relationship to personal material. Expansion of role repertoire. Better understanding of self and improved self-image. Development of interpersonal skills with the aim of reducing the sense of isolation/alienation felt by many clients. Drama Therapists Dramatherapists are trained to Master’s level and are accredited by IACAT. They carry out assessments, design and implement therapy programs and evaluate outcomes with reference to the most up to date research base. Therapists undertake continuing professional development and regular clinical supervision.
Individual Sessions
I work with a client-centred approach using a wide range of drama and movement therapy techniques. I have a particular interest in the therapeutic use of script, theatre and film.
I offer an initial consultation session with each client so that I can meet each other and decide whether it is appropriate to work together. Some clients feel more comfortable expressing their feelings in a one-on-one session. My Individual Dramatherapy sessions offer a chance to explore each client’s feelings and emotional issues in a more intimate setting
Group Sessions
Group sessions are a great way to develop social skills and communication skills. I work in small groups of up to 12 clients where I encourage each client to not only explore their thoughts and feelings but to find their own ways to cope with them on their own.
WorkShops / Cooperate Sessions
Workshops can be delivered short-term or long-term. They can be designed specifically to suit the needs of a group/workplace/ organisation. They can be based on certain themes such as bullying, stress, mindfulness or managing emotions
Looking to revitalise your practice? Do you have clients who are stuck or resistant, repeating the same patterns over and over? Tired of using the same interventions, session after session?
I help you by creating custom build therapy according to your needs. We create innovative interventions to help even your most resistant clients become unstuck and express themselves