How does Dramatherapy Work?
Dramatherapy uses drama techniques and integrates several forms of expression i.e. movement, voice, body language, enactment, art and music. Ideas, issues and problems are explored in a safe and contained environment. The emphasis is not on performance but on the experience gained during the process.
Who can benefit from Dramatherapy?
- Children in need of Intervention
- Special Needs
- Mental Health Issues
- Elderly
- Service Users of Residential Institutions
- Anyone who wants to focus on a specific issue in a creative way
Aims of a Dramatherapy Session
- To explore ideas, issues and problems
- To express and explore feelings around these
- To develop spontaneity, imagination and creativity
- To improve self-image and self-confidence
- To develop personal growth and Social and Relationship Skills
What are the Benefits of Dramatherapy?
- Facilitates personal growth, expression and insight
- Enhances Emotional Stability and Strength
- Encourages Reflective Skills
- Facilitates communication in creative ways
- Clients can try out new life roles within the sessions
- Growth is at a conscious and unconscious level
- Facilitates an awakening of Creativity
- Gives unbiased support for the client
- Provides an opportunity for clients to know other clients on a deeper and more personal level
- Provides Freedom of Expression
- A sense of Empowerment for the individual can be achieved
- Gives a sense of community
- Provides escapism, enjoyment and fun
- Dramatherapy is a Confidential Service and it provides a sense of space where personal issues can be explored without fear
Issues which can be addressed through Dramatherapy
- Low Self-Esteem and Lack of Confidence
- Bereavement and Loss
- Trauma and Rehabilitation
- It can remove blocks to progress and growth in a client
- Bullying
- Racism
- Conflict Resolution and Respect
- Lack of Tolerance
Methods Utilised
- Spontaneous Dramatic Play through Drama Games and Improvisation
- Mime and Masks
- Role Play and Scripts
- Myths and Story Making
- Metaphor and Symbolism
- Puppets and Miniature Objects
- Playback Theatre
- Theatre of the Oppressed
- Relaxation and visualisation
What a Dramatherapist can bring to a Client?
- Establishment of a Relationship and Trust
- Confidentiality
- Empathy
- Emotional Support
- Unconditional Positive Regard
- Use of Metaphors for Personal Insights
- Containment of Client and their emotions
- A safe space