The Use of Dance Movement Psychotherapy in Trauma Intervention

Abstract

This literature review explores the intentional use of movement in psychotherapy and trauma intervention. Several questions led to this research: How can movement be integrated pragmatically and seamlessly into the psychotherapeutic process? When is the use of movement in psychotherapy most beneficial to the client? What differentiates a movement-orientated therapist and a psychotherapist who uses movement techniques? Finally, what is the relationship between movement and more traditional talk-based psychotherapies? Following the review, I attempt to answer these questions. Inspired by the uses of DMT in trauma intervention, I suggest an approach for a single session movement/talk therapy hybrid.