Best Schools for Dance Movement Therapists in 2024

Essential Education to Become a Dance Movement Therapist

Becoming a Dance Movement Therapist is a unique and fulfilling career path that combines the art of dance with the science of psychology to promote emotional, mental, and physical healing. To embark on this career, specific educational steps must be followed. Here's what you need to know about the essential education required to enter the field.

Undergraduate Degree

First and foremost, you'll need to obtain an undergraduate degree. While there's no single prescribed path, your bachelor's degree should ideally lay a foundation in both psychology and dance. Consider majors or minors in the following areas:

• Psychology
• Dance or Dance Education
• Human Development or Counseling
• Creative Arts Therapies

Graduate Programs in Dance Movement Therapy

After completing your undergraduate education, the next step is to pursue a master’s degree in Dance Movement Therapy from an accredited program. These programs are specifically designed to provide you with the theoretical knowledge, clinical skills, and practical experience needed to become a professional in the field. Key components of these programs often include:

• Core Courses: These typically cover topics such as movement observation and analysis, dance therapy theory and practice, human development, group processes, psychopathology, and research methods.
• Clinical Internship: An essential part of your training, internships offer hands-on experience under supervision in various settings such as hospitals, schools, rehabilitation centers, or private practices.
• Thesis or Culminating Project: Many programs require students to complete a research project or thesis related to dance movement therapy.

Certification and Licensure

To practice as a Dance Movement Therapist, obtaining certification and/or licensure is an essential step after graduation. The American Dance Therapy Association (ADTA) offers the Registered Dance/Movement Therapist (R-DMT) credential for new graduates who have met specific educational and clinical experience requirements. For those with more extensive experience, the Board Certified Dance/Movement Therapist (BC-DMT) credential is available. Requirements for these certifications include:

• Graduation from an ADTA-approved program
• Completion of supervised clinical internship hours
• Passing a written examination

It's important to note that licensure requirements vary by state, so it’s essential to research the specific requirements in your area.

Continuing Education

The field of dance movement therapy is ever-evolving, making continuing education crucial for professionals who want to stay informed about the latest research, techniques, and best practices. Opportunities for continuing education include workshops, conferences, and advanced courses.

Specialized Training or Certifications

In addition to general dance movement therapy education and certification, you may choose to specialize in working with specific populations or therapeutic approaches. Specialized training programs and certifications can include:

• Working with children or the elderly
• Neurological disorders
• Trauma-informed care
• Integrative/mind-body approaches

By following these educational steps and focusing on continuous learning and specialization, you'll be well on your way to a rewarding career as a Dance Movement Therapist. Remember that the journey doesn’t end with obtaining your degree or certification; it’s a career path marked by ongoing growth, learning, and dedication to helping others through the transformative power of dance and movement.

Dance Movement Therapist Education Resources

Professional Associations

Engaging with professional associations is a great way to dive into the world of Dance Movement Therapy. These associations often provide resources, networking opportunities, and up-to-date information on industry standards and education:

• American Dance Therapy Association (ADTA): ADTA

  • As the leading organization for professionals in the field, ADTA offers a wealth of information on certification, training programs, and continuing education opportunities.

• International Dance Movement Therapy Association (IDMTA): IDMTA

  • This global organization provides resources for dance movement therapists worldwide, including international conferences and journals.

Industry Publications

Staying informed with the latest research, trends, and news in dance movement therapy is crucial for your professional development. Here are some key publications:

• The American Journal of Dance Therapy: AJDT

  • Published by the ADTA, this journal is a leading source of scholarly articles on dance movement therapy.

• Body, Movement and Dance in Psychotherapy: Journal Link

  • An international peer-reviewed journal that explores the relationship between body movement, dance, and psychotherapy.

Educational Resources

When it comes to education in dance movement therapy, finding the right program and resources is vital. Here are some starting points:

• ADTA Approved Graduate Programs: Programs List

  • A comprehensive list of graduate programs approved by the ADTA, ensuring they meet professional standards.

• Career.Guide: Dance Movement Therapist Career Path

  • While specific pages for dance movement therapy might not be directly available, Career.Guide provides extensive resources on related healthcare and therapy careers, educational pathways, and insights into various professions.

Continuing Education and Workshops

For those already in the field or looking to expand their knowledge and skills, continuing education is key:

• ADTA Continuing Education: Continuing Education

  • The ADTA offers various workshops, webinars, and courses for ongoing professional development.

• Local Workshops and Seminars:

  • Keep an eye out for local universities or institutions that offer workshops and seminars focused on dance movement therapy or related fields.

By tapping into these resources, you'll be well-equipped with the knowledge and connections needed to thrive as a Dance Movement Therapist. Remember, staying engaged with your professional community and staying informed are key steps in your career development.

Dance Movement Therapist Education FAQs

What educational background is required to become a Dance Movement Therapist?

To embark on a career as a Dance Movement Therapist, you typically need:

• A bachelor's degree in psychology, counseling, dance, or a related field. This foundational step introduces you to the basics of human behavior, movement, and therapeutic practices.
• A master's degree in Dance/Movement Therapy from a program accredited by the American Dance Therapy Association (ADTA). This specialized training equips you with the necessary knowledge and skills to use dance as a form of therapy.

Are there any specific courses or subjects I should focus on during my studies?

Yes, focusing on certain courses can better prepare you for a career in Dance Movement Therapy:

• Human anatomy and physiology
• Psychology and counseling theories
• Developmental psychology
• Movement analysis
• Dance and creative arts therapies techniques

How important is hands-on experience in this field?

Hands-on experience is crucial for developing your skills as a Dance Movement Therapist. You can gain this experience through:

• Internships or practicum placements during your master's program, which are often requirements for graduation.
• Volunteering at hospitals, rehabilitation centers, or community organizations that offer dance therapy programs.

Do I need any certifications or licenses to practice as a Dance Movement Therapist?

Yes, to practice as a Dance Movement Therapist, you will need to:

• Obtain the Registered Dance/Movement Therapist (R-DMT) credential from the ADTA after completing your master's program and required clinical hours.
• Pursue the Board Certified Dance/Movement Therapist (BC-DMT) certification after gaining additional clinical experience and supervision hours. This certification is also offered by the ADTA and is recognized as a higher level of professional achievement.

How can I stay updated with the latest developments in the field of Dance Movement Therapy?

Staying updated is key to success in any therapeutic field. You can stay informed by:

• Joining professional organizations such as the American Dance Therapy Association (ADTA), which provide members with resources, continuing education opportunities, and networking events.
• Attending workshops, seminars, and conferences related to dance therapy and mental health.
• Subscribing to relevant journals and newsletters.
• Engaging in peer supervision groups or finding a mentor in the field.

What skills are essential for a successful career in Dance Movement Therapy?

In addition to your educational background, certain skills are vital for success in this career:

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills to effectively connect with clients.
• Creativity and improvisation abilities to adapt movements and therapeutic techniques to meet individual client needs.
• Patience and empathy to support clients through their therapeutic journeys.
• An understanding of cultural sensitivity to respect and incorporate diverse backgrounds into therapy practices.

Remember, becoming a Dance Movement Therapist is a commitment to both your professional growth and the well-being of those you aim to help. With the right education, certifications, and dedication to continuous learning, you can make a significant impact in this rewarding field.