What is Dance/Movement Therapy?

• Dance/Movement therapy is the psychotherapeutic use of movement as a process which furthers the emotional, cognitive, social and physical integration of the individual.

• Dance/Movement therapists work with individuals who have social, emotional, cognitive and/or physical problems.

• They are employed in psychiatric hospitals, clinics, day care, community mental health centers, developmental centers, correctional facilities, special schools and rehabilitation facilities.

• They work with people of all ages in both groups and individually. They act as consultants and engage in research.

• They live and work throughout the United States, in Canada, Europe, South America, Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and Australia.

What is the Purpose of the American Dance Therapy Association?

Since its founding in l966, ADTA has worked to establish and maintain high standards of professional education and competence in the field. ADTA stimulates communication among dance/movement therapists and members of allied professions through publication of the ADTA Newsletter, the American Journal of Dance Therapy, monographs, bibliographies, and conference proceedings. ADTA holds an annual conference and supports formation of regional groups, conferences, seminars, workshops and meetings throughout the year.

Can One Receive a DTR with a Master's Degree from a Related Field Plus Dance/Movement Therapy Coursework?

Yes, there is an alternate route that requires a master's degree, specific dance/movement therapy courses and supervised internships. For further information write to American Dance Therapy Association (ADTA), 2000 Century Plaza, Suite l08, 10632 Little Patuxent Parkway, Columbia, Maryland 21044-3263, for materials on the alternate route DTR requirements.

What Degree Do Dance/Movement Therapists Receive?

Professional training is on the graduate level. Graduates receive a master's degree in dance/movement therapy or related degree title. Graduates from an "approved" dance/movement therapy program are eligible for the DTR (Dance Therapist Registered) credential.

What Does Approval of Graduate Programs Mean?

An approved program has met the basic educational standards of the American Dance Therapy Association.

What Kinds of Work Experience Would be Helpful for a Future Dance/Movement Therapist?

Working with people in a variety of human service settings and teaching dance and creative movement to groups of children and adults.

What Undergraduate Preparation Should One Have?

Extensive dance experience and a liberal arts background with coursework in psychology. For specific prerequisites contact each graduate program.