By Hannah Henderson
I believe play is the most natural medium of self expression for all of humanity. Oftentimes, as we grow older and the world begins to mold and conform us, play is abandoned. It is at that point that we begin to lose integral parts of our development; individuality, creativity and freedom. Drama Therapy could play a key role in unlocking true emotional, mental and even physical healing.
Drama therapy is a form of psychotherapy. It involves using drama and theatre techniques to help people resolve conflicts and problems. It may also allow individuals to develop self-awareness, express emotions, and improve relationships. This form of therapy can be useful for people of all ages, including children, adolescents, and adults. Drama therapy allows participants to explore their emotions in a safe and controlled environment. It is an active and experiential approach that can help people address various issues, including trauma, mental illness, relationship problems, and personal goal-setting.
Drama therapists help people explore difficult emotions, process past experiences, and work through challenging life situations. Drama therapy maintains the belief that everyone has an innate capacity for creative expression. When individuals explore their inner lives through drama, they can access hidden parts of themselves, develop new ways of relating to others, and find new solutions to old problems. Drama therapy works for individuals, groups, or family settings. Therapists may use it in conjunction with other forms of therapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy or psychodynamic psychotherapy.
As a highly creative and expressive therapeutic approach, drama therapy can be particularly helpful for those who find traditional talk therapy unengaging or difficult. A drama therapist assesses a person’s individual needs and goals to create a treatment plan. They then use different drama techniques, activities, and exercises to help the person explore their emotions and work through challenging life experiences. These creative methods include: storytelling, games, play acting, improvisation, role-playing, puppetry, creative writing exercises, guided visualizations. The therapist can also incorporate other media into the sessions, such as music or movement therapy, to address specific issues. The therapist guides the clients through these activities, reflecting on their experiences and helping them find new solutions to old problems. The therapist-client relationship is an important part of drama therapy. The therapist creates a safe and supportive environment where clients can express themselves freely.
Resources
Jones, Phil. Drama as Therapy: Theory, Practice and Research . One.
Johnson , David Read, and Renee Emunah. Current Approaches in Drama Therapy . Three.
