The Mechanisms, Effects, and Benefits of Dance Therapy as a Treatment for Mental Health Outcomes

Abstract

This project examines the mechanisms of dance in order to make a case for the potential benefits of movement therapy, and more specifically Dance/Movement Therapy (DMT), as a modality to treat mental health outcomes. Through the explaining of emotional theories, there is a connection made between emotions, movement, and the environment, that establish the foundations for the emerging therapeutic approach. Research reviewed in this project includes studies that examine the bi-directional and dynamic connection between an individual's movement postures and emotional states on a personal and interpersonal level. This phenomenological connection is made relevant to dance movement therapy as it applies to the interaffective therapeutic movement relationship that is created between the therapist and the client/patient. To better create a cohesive understanding of dance movement therapy, a few techniques/mechanisms of the therapy are synthesized and defined in the project which include: empathy, music, embodiment, mirroring, transference, and countertransference. Finally, gaps in the current dance movement therapy research are identified to call for more reliable and valid research to encourage a valid standard manual for Dance/Movement therapy.