This book explores six themes, with one to four suggestions following each and utilizing these techniques in applying Dance/Movement Therapy (DMT) to individuals with complex disabilities-both physically and intellectually. Many of the individuals that are a part of this learning experience are wheelchair users, non-verbal, and dual-diagnosed; however, they are still capable of experiencing life through movement. These sessions take place at their residence over an eight-month period. Through my own data collection, I have concluded a limited number of sources exist to support this population in a DMT capacity. It is my hope to present my experiences while mobilizing them into ideas to further DMT practice.

This book provides an overview of dance movement psychotherapy for young people and adults with learning disabilities. Contributors from a variety of backgrounds examine their work with clients from across the disabilities spectrum, ranging from mild to complex needs. The book chapters present theory and practice relating to the client group and subsequent therapy processes. This comprises psychotherapeutic interventions, dance movement interventions, theoretical constructs, case study material, practitioner care, and practitioner learning and development related to individual and group therapy work. The logistics of a Dance Movement Psychotherapy intervention, the intervention itself and the ripples of influence into the clients’ wider socio-cultural context are discussed. This stance speaks to current research and practice discourse in health and social care. The book champions acceptance of difference and equality in the health and social care needs for people with learning disabilities whilst emphasising the importance of dance movement psychotherapy for people with non-verbal communication. Dance Movement Psychotherapy with People with Learning Disabilities: Out of the Shadows, into the Light will provide a practical and theoretical resource for practitioners and students of dance movement psychotherapy as well as allied health professionals, service providers and carers.

The Art and Science of Dance/Movement Therapy offers both a broad understanding and an in-depth view of how and where dance therapy can be used to produce change. The chapters go beyond the basics that characterize much of the literature on dance/movement therapy, and each of the topics covered offers a theoretical perspective followed by case studies that emphasize the techniques used in the varied settings. Several different theoretical points of view are presented in the chapters, illuminating the different paths through which dance can be approached in therapy.

`This book is a very useful starting point for trainees in DMT, or for those training or practicing in other arts therapies or allied professions who would like an overview of theories and methods in DMT. For more experienced DMT practitioners and researchers, this book provides an introduction to theories of creativity and the notion of the movement metaphor as a basis for DMT theory and practice. There is constant dialogue and contextualizing between Meekum′s theory and approach, psychological theories that have influenced the development of DMT, case studies, and the historical development of DMT. What is important in this book is the acknowledgement that DMT is a unique psychotherapy practice with a distinctive theory and methodology based on the intrinsic interaction between movement, the creative process, and psychology′ - Body, Movement and Dance in Psychotherapy `Along with the "how" and "why" of psychotherapy, Bonnie Meekums provides realistic examples of people whose lives have benefited from dance movement therapy. It is my honour to recommend this book′ - Dianne Dulicai, President of the American Dance Therapy Association `It is a very accessible book - it′s an introduction to Dance Movement Therapy, ideal for students who have started DMT training, people who work in related fields (eg other arts therapies) or anyone who is interested in DMT. However, the book goes beyond the introduction in Bonnie′s attempt to develop a new framework. It encourages practising DMTs to question their own approach introducing a different terminology to describe the creative process.... It is food for thought and for discussions in supervision′ - e-motion `Dr Meekums surpasses her goal of contributing to the development of DMT; her book serves as a catalyzing guide for all health care professionals who seek creative processes in healing.... Meekums provides an innovative framework for DMT, and offers adequate references and recommendations for further study, research and evidence-based practice. I enthusiastically recommend this book to creative arts therapists, allied practitioners and especially to practicing and interning dance movement therapists as a professional resource and guide′ - Maria Brignola Lee, The Arts in Psychotherapy Dance Movement Therapy is a concise, practical introduction to a form of therapy, which has the body-mind relationship at its centre. Movement, with both its physical and metaphorical potential, provides a unique medium through which clients can find expression, reach new interpretations and ultimately achieve a greater integration of their emotional and physical experience. In the book, Bonnie Meekums maps the origins of Dance Movement Therapy (DMT) and its relationship to other more traditional forms of therapy. Outlining a new model for DMT, she describes the creative process, which develops in cycles throughout each session and over the course of therapy. The stages in this creative, psychotherapeutic process are described as: - preparation - incubation - illumination - and evaluation Illustrated throughout with vivid case examples, the book defines the role of the therapist in working with clients to bring about change. This is a practical and accessible guide, which will help new trainees become orientated within the field of DMT. It also has much to offer practising psychotherapists who wish to develop more holistic and creative ways of meeting their clients′ needs.

The complexity and diversity of dance movement therapy is both clarified and celebrated in the contributions to this book which documents pioneering practice in a variety of settings in the UK. Experienced dance movement therapists from many different theoretical orientations and working with a range of clients, from the very young to the very old, come together to reveal their thinking, working methods and techniques. Dance Movement Therapy: Theory and Practice offers practising dance movement therapists new ideas and approaches, students an insight into their subject's versatility and adaptability, and other mental health workers, allied educators and professionals a clear picture of the nature and importance of dance movement therapy.

What can dance movement contribute to psychotherapy? This thoroughly updated edition of Dance Movement Therapy echoes the increased world-wide interest in dance movement therapy and makes a strong contribution to the emerging awareness of the nature of embodiment in psychotherapy. Recent research is incorporated, along with developments in theory and practice, to provide a comprehensive overview of this fast-growing field. Helen Payne brings together contributions from experts in the field to offer the reader a valuable insight into the theory and practice of Dance Movement Therapy. The contributions reflect the breadth of developing approaches, covering subjects including: dance movement therapy with people with dementia group work with people with enduring mental health difficulties transcultural competence in dance movement therapy freudian thought applied to authentic movement embodiment in dance movement therapy training and practice personal development through dance movement therapy. Dance Movement Therapy will be a valuable resource for anyone who wishes to learn more about the therapeutic use of creative movement and dance. It will be welcomed by students and practitioners in the arts therapies, psychotherapy, counselling and other health and social care professions.