What Is Dance/Movement Therapy?

Dance/Movement Therapy (DMT) is a form of psychotherapy that focuses on the use of the body and movement for self expression rather than cognitive language. DMT promotes emotional and social healing by connecting our bodies responses to cognitive and physical integration. Our bodies and minds are connected-one does not function without the other. As humans, we have a tendency to rely on our brains for interpretations of our world, moving from what is considered a “top down” healing philosophy. DMT, on the other hand, starts with using the body and exploring somatic sensations to heal from “the bottom up.” This format can help uncover emotions and patterns that are hard to express verbally. To be a Dance/Movement Therapist practitioner, DMT’s must complete a Master’s Level program and complete regular continuing education credits. A Board-Certified Dance/Movement Therapist has completed additional requirements by the American Dance/Movement Therapy Association which proves their excellence and competence in providing this psychological service.

DMT can help people of all ages with mental health concerns such as anxiety, depression, trauma, developmental or physical disabilities, children and older adults.

Goals of DMT may include: Increasing self-awareness and body awareness, improving self-esteem and emotional regulation, physical rehabilitation, improving mobility/strengthening/balance and enhance communication and relationships. Examples of what you could expect in a Dance/Movement Therapy session includes: free movement, mirroring, rhythmic activities, guided improvisation, art and some verbal processing.

What Is Authentic Movement?

Authentic Movement is a therapeutic and contemplative practice rooted in dance and psychology. Authentic Movement is inner directed movement, versus directed steps or choreography. Participants are led through mindful and meditative practices to support each individual in listening deeply to their bodily impulses and allowing spontaneous movement to arise. There is no right or wrong way to move in Authentic Movement. Some times Authentic Movement uses music, and sometimes is done in silence. Regardless, there are a few different roles within Authentic Movement practices:

• The Mover: The mover is encouraged to have their eyes closed, or have a soft gaze, moving to their own internal images that come up or from any sensation or physical impulse. Movement can be large—or so subtle that laying on the floor or remaining seated and in stillness, is all considered action and movement. There is no choreography or performance demand for the mover.

• The Witness: The therapist observes the mover silently and attentively, offering a nonjudgemental and compassionate presence. The witness may share reflections, but without interpretation, to the mover.

• Purpose: The purpose of Authentic Movement includes to trust the wisdom of the body, explore unconscious thought through movement, and develop self-awareness, self-acceptance and the ability to witness oneself with compassion. Authentic movement is less based on therapeutic goals, unlike Dance/Movement Therapy, and emphasis on exploration, mindfulness and self awareness.
  

Do I need to have had previous dance or movement experience?

No! A lot of people hear “Dance/Movement Therapy” and assume that it revolves around the “dance” part. However, Dance/Movement Therapy is based on that we all experience movement, be it our heart beats, breath or small muscle adjustments. This makes DMT and Authentic Movement accessible for anyone regardless of past movement experience, ability or even physical restrictions.

What Should I Wear?

Wear comfortable clothes that allows for movement. Socks or bare feet are preferred. Shoes can be worn in some locations, but not all.

Cancellation Policy for Individual Sessions:

Please cancel individual sessions within 24 hours of your scheduled appointment. There will be no refund should a cancellation occur 24 hours or less from the time of the scheduled appointment.

Prepayment Requirement:

All classes, individual or groups, must be paid for 48 hours prior to attendance/date of session. This allows the facilitator time to ensure that materials and space is ready for the participant(s).

Do You Take Insurance?

At this time, Move With Mountains does not take insurances. Reasons for this include:

• Confidentiality: Insurances at times request audits which can share information you would prefer to keep confidential, between you and your therapist

• There is no pressure to have a mental health diagnosis. In order to receive treatment, insurance demands that you meet criteria for a mental health diagnosis. Some folx also benefit from being seen as a whole person, not just a diagnosis. This is to assist in decreasing stigmatization of mental health diagnosis and mental health need. Everyone can benefit from introspection.

  • As Move With Mountains continues to expand, you will find there will be different available offerings at various price points. Stay tuned and keep checking back as we continue to develop our offerings!