Let’s Get Moving!

Let’s Get Moving!

Dance/Movement Therapy (DMT) is “the psychotherapeutic use of movement to promote emotional, social, cognitive, and physical integration of the individual, for the purpose of improving health and well-being.”

(ADTA, n.d.) 

American Dance Therapy Association
adta.org

Benefits of Therapeutic Movement and DMT for Healthier Aging and Improved Quality of Life

  • Complements and supports a multi-disciplinary team approach
  • Increases social and sensory engagement
  • Provides a safe space for self-expression
  • Promotes nostalgia
  • Activates and strengthens neural connections
  • Enhances coping skills
  • Encourages physical exertion
Picture of a happy and healthy older adult smiling

Common session themes include:

  • Connection
  • Relationships and support systems
  • Coping and adaptation
Let’s Get Moving!

FAQs

  • Sessions are inclusive and held with individuals of all ages, races, cultures, ethnic backgrounds, sexual orientations, and gender identities.
  • Each member is encouraged to participate at their own pace/comfort level.
  • Sessions may take place with either one individual or a group of individuals.
  • Memories and feelings are expressed playfully through movement (and often also through verbal sharing) and supported by the therapist.
  • Sessions may be held in many different types of settings (therapeutic day rooms of various healthcare establishments, wellness centers, rehabilitative settings, community centers, and on virtual platforms).
  • The entire session may be seated based upon participant comfort and ability.
  • Appropriate music selections are often played in the background to help “set the scene” and promote rhythm and nostalgia. I use culturally-sensitive music of all genres as a primary stimulus for movement and engagement. See my sample playlists below.

The Sounds of Music

Sample Session Playlist 1

The Sounds of Music

Sample Session Playlist 2