Drama Therapy

A Drama Therapist follows the code of ethic set by North American Drama Therapy Association or other governing boards. The educational requirements for the Drama Therapist involve: A master's or doctoral degree in drama therapy or psychology with additional in-depth training in drama therapy in addition to required theatre arts experience. Drama therapy education includes supervised internship and work experience.

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Drama therapy can take many forms depending on individual and group needs, skill and ability levels, interests, and therapeutic goals. Processes and techniques may include improvisations, theatre games, storytelling, and enactment. Many drama therapists make use of text, performance, or ritual to enrich the therapeutic and creative process. The theoretical foundation of drama therapy lies in drama, theatre, psychology, psychotherapy, anthropology, play, and interactive and creative processes.

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Drama therapy is for everyone across the lifespan. You do not have to be “good” at acting to benefit from drama therapy! Client populations may include persons recovering from addiction, dysfunctional families, developmentally disabled persons, abuse survivors, prison inmates, homeless persons, people struggling affected by disease, older adults, behavioural health consumers, at-risk youth, and the general public. Drama therapists work in a variety of mental health and community settings.

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What are the Research Outcomes?

• Drama therapy is beneficial for individuals, families, and communities struggling with transition, loss, social stigmatisation, isolation, and conflict. It is an effective option for the treatment and prevention of anxiety, depression, and addiction, among other conditions. Drama therapy can promote positive changes in mood, insight, and empathy, and it can facilitates healthy relationships.

• We invite you to learn more about drama therapy research and the Drama Therapy Review.