When words are not enough, let the body speak
Dance Movement Psychotherapy
for
Children and Teens
Movement and Play (Under 12)
DMP sessions for children under 12 involve play, movement and dance. Children can express thoughts, feelings, past experiences and behaviours through movement and play. I enter the world of the child and follow the child’s lead. Child-led therapy can bring the best outcome to the child.
In DMP, we go creative and do things like dance, play, games, music even drawings sometimes! It is a holistic approach for your child to express and process challenging emotions and behaviours.
More Dance for Teens
Teens have a choice of what they want to do in therapeutic space with me. Some teens may like to express through dance or choreograph a piece with me. Creating their own dance helps them to feel more confident and it becomes a 'body memory' to carry with after every session. But of course some may like to create a game and play too! Possibilities are unlimited.
Props - a fun way to express!
There are props such as parachute, balls, ribbons, puppets that the child can imaginatively play and move with. Some children create own stories through imagination. That is important as nonverbal play, movement, fantasies support them to express something difficult or fearful in a safe way.
There are drawing materials where children can freely express themselves.
A child safe environment
I have a child safety environment policy that is registered with the Department of Human Services. I will explain about my ethical obligations and practice at the first session so that we are clear with the boundaries and your child is always safe in a therapeutic space with me.
Benefits of DMP
for Children and Teens
Regulate Emotions
I will support your child to safely find a way to express, process and regulate difficult emotions and moments.
E.g. Breathing exercise, creating a sequence of movement that calms the child down.
Enhance Imagination
Imagination is important for the child to explore something that may not be possible or unbearable in their reality. Through play and movement, children may project their reality (e.g. frustrations around being not understood by peers and adults) into imaginary plays and express difficult emotions imaginatively.
Learn to build
a positive relationship
Children will learn how to safely and positively build a relationship with the other (therapist) in the space. This will help the child to positively socialise and repair attachment issues if they have.
Improve Motor Skills
DMP can improve the child’s motor skills by moving, balancing, and controlling the body. When the child plays, they naturally learn to take risks, but also learns how to control their body too.