Dance/Movement Therapy

An expressive, body-centered therapy that uses movement, creativity, and mindfulness to support emotional healing and wellbeing.

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Dance and Movement Therapy

A therapeutic approach that uses guided movement, expression, and body awareness to support emotional healing and mind body integration.

Best for

Trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, grief, body image issues, stress, social isolation.

Session format

Individual or Group · In person (most common) or Virtual (adapted).

Typical cadence

Weekly · Session length: 50–75 minutes.

Duration

Varies · Short-term (8–12 sessions) or ongoing groups.

Often combined with

Somatic Experiencing, CBT, expressive arts therapy, mindfulness, family therapy.

Evidence base

Established in the 1940s, supported by research in psychology, movement science, and trauma recovery.

What Is Dance/Movement Therapy?

Dance/Movement Therapy (DMT) is a form of psychotherapy that uses movement and body awareness to explore emotions, process trauma, and improve wellbeing. Unlike a dance class, DMT does not focus on performance or choreography.

Therapists guide clients to:

Emotional Movement

Explore emotions through movement and posture

Body Release

Release tension, trauma, or stress held in the body

Self-Awareness

Strengthen self-awareness and body confidence

Connected Movement

Connect with others through shared movement experiences

How Dance/Movement Therapy Helps in Recovery

A Creative Path to Restoring Balance, Expression, and Well-Being

Provides nonverbal expression

Helpful when words feel overwhelming or limiting

Supports trauma healing

Releases stored tension and integrates mind-body awareness

Boosts mood and resilience

Movement stimulates positive emotions and vitality

Improves body image

Encourages acceptance and connection with one’s body

What to Expect in Each Format

DMT sessions are experiential, creative, and supportive. They may include:

Warm-up activities

Gentle movement to build awareness and safety.

Guided exercises

Using posture, rhythm, or gesture to explore inner experiences.

Group connection

Sharing movement in pairs or circles to build empathy.

Integration

Reflection through discussion, art, or journaling.

Who Benefits from Dance/Movement Therapy?

For Individuals Healing Through Movement and Creative Expression

Dance/Movement Therapy supports people who find emotional clarity, grounding, and release through physical expression. It is especially helpful for those who struggle to articulate feelings verbally, offering a body-centered pathway to healing, regulation, and self-discovery.

Trauma & Grief Recovery

Survivors of trauma, abuse, or grief

Depression & Anxiety Relief

Individuals with depression, anxiety, or stress

Body Image & Eating Disorders

People struggling with eating disorders or body image issues

Emotional Expression for All Ages

Children, adolescents, and adults needing expressive outlets for emotions

Community Healing & Resilience

Communities or groups healing from collective stress or trauma

Why TruPaths Highlights Dance/Movement Therapy

Empowering healing and self-expression through movement and rhythm

TruPaths highlights Dance/Movement Therapy because movement is a powerful pathway for healing. When words fall short, the body can speak. This therapy empowers individuals to reconnect with themselves and others through creativity and embodied expression.

FAQs about Dance/Movement Therapy

Do I need dance experience?

No. DMT is about expression, not performance. Everyone can participate.

How is this different from exercise?

Dance/Movement Therapy focuses on emotional healing and self-expression, not just fitness or movement.

Is it only for groups?

No, it can be done individually or in groups depending on personal goals and comfort.

Is it covered by insurance?

Some insurance plans may cover it under mental health services with a licensed therapist.

Can it help with trauma?

Yes, it helps people process emotions and release tension stored in the body after trauma.

Can I participate if I have limited mobility?  

People with limited mobility can fully benefit. All practices can be adapted, and the work focuses more on awareness and nervous-system regulation than physical movement.

Find Recovery Options Offering Dance/Movement Therapy

Healing doesn’t always come through words. Dance/Movement Therapy helps individuals process emotions, release trauma, and build resilience through creative movement.

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About TruPath's Recommendations

Recommendations are based on your location and recovery needs, including the programs you've explored, the services you've saved, and the filters you've used. We use this information to highlight similar treatment options so you never miss a trusted path forward.