Dramatherapy integrates several forms of expression i.e. movement, voice, body language, enactment, art and music. Ideas, issues and problems are explored in a safe and contained environment. The emphasis is not on performance but on the experience gained during the process.

Who can benefit from Dramatherapy?

• Children in need of Intervention
• Special Needs
• Mental Health Problems
• The Elderly
• Service Users of Residential Institutions
• Anyone who wants to focus on a specific issue in a creative way

Aims of a Dramatherapy Session

• To explore ideas, issues and problems
• To express and explore feelings around these
• To develop spontaneity, imagination and creativity
• To improve self-image and self-confidence
• To develop personal growth and Social and Relationship Skills

What are the Benefits of Dramatherapy?

• Facilitates personal growth, expression and insight
• Enhances Emotional Stability and Strength
• Encourages Reflective Skills
• Facilitates communication in more creative ways
• Clients can try out new life roles within the sessions
• Growth is at a conscious and an unconscious level
• Facilitates an awakening of Creativity
• Gives unbiased support for the client
• Provides an opportunity for clients to know other clients on a deeper and more personal level
• Provides Freedom of Expression
• A sense of Empowerment for the individual can be achieved
• Provides a sense of community
• Provides escapism, enjoyment and fun
• Dramatherapy is a Confidential Service and it provides a sense of space where personal issues can be explored without fear

Issues which can be addressed through Dramatherapy

• Low Self-esteem and Lack of Confidence
• Bereavement and Loss
• Trauma and rehabilitation
• It can remove blocks to progress and growth in a client
• Bullying
• Racism
• Conflict Resolution and Respect
• Lack of Tolerance

Methods Utilised

• Spontaneous Dramatic Play through Drama Games and Improvisation
• Mime and Masks
• Role Play and Scripts
• Myths and Story Making
• Metaphor and Symbolism
• Puppets and Miniature Objects
• Playback Theatre
• Theatre of the Oppressed
• Relaxation and visualisation

What a Dramatherapist can bring to a Client?

• Establishment of a Relationship and Trust
• Confidentiality
• Empathy
• Emotional Support
• Unconditional Positive Regard
• Use of Metaphors for Personal Insights
• Containment of Client and their emotions
• A safe space