How I Found My Path to Dance Movement Psychotherapy (DMP)
Early Beginnings: A Passion for Dance
Ever since I was three, dance has been a big part of my life. I trained in ballet, tap, and jazz well into adulthood. But while studying Marketing at the University of North Texas, I never imagined that my love for dance would shape my career. I started off in marketing but always felt a pull towards something more meaningful. This urge led me to quit my corporate job and spend a year in Madrid, Spain, teaching English.
Finding Purpose: Advocacy and Personal Connection
Upon returning to the US, I worked at a women’s shelter, advocating for survivors of domestic abuse. This job resonated deeply with me. It allowed me to connect with these women on a personal level and gave me a sense of purpose. It made me realize that understanding and healing my own trauma could help others. So, I went back to school to study psychology, hoping to find a way to heal myself and others.
Disillusionment with Traditional Approaches
During my psychology training, I became frustrated with traditional mental health treatments. They felt too rigid and narrow, making me question if there was a more holistic approach to healing. While working at a non-profit in London, I found myself searching for a new path.
A Serendipitous Discovery
One day, my flatmate handed me a magazine from the British Psychological Society. I usually didn’t read it, but something made me flip through the pages. I stumbled upon an article about Dance Movement Psychotherapy (DMP). It was a lightbulb moment. I thought, "This is it!"
Related Post: What is Dance Movement Psychotherapy (DMP)? A Comprehensive Guide
Embarking on a New Path
With renewed purpose, I explored DMP programs in the UK, where I had been living for three years. I found two programs in London—Goldsmiths, University of London and Roehampton University. It struck me as ironic that such programs were nonexistent in the southern US, where I'm from.
Becoming a Registered Dance Movement Psychotherapist
Fast forward to today, and I’m a registered DMP therapist in the UK. Many people ask me the same question I had: What is Dance Movement Psychotherapy?
For a deeper dive into DMP, check out my article: What is Dance Movement Psychotherapy (DMP)? A Comprehensive Guide
The Therapeutic Power of Dance
Dance has always been a powerful healing tool. It’s been revered since ancient times for its ability to unlock the body’s hidden traumas. Modern psychology is just starting to recognize its potential, but yogis and mystics have known this for ages (American Dance Therapy Association).
The Principles of Dance Movement Psychotherapy
DMP uses a mind-body-spirit approach to treat trauma. Recent research highlights the deep connection between body and mind (Bessel van der Kolk). Experts argue for moving away from the brain-disease model and recognizing that trauma must be healed emotionally, psychologically, and bodily. This wisdom has been known to yogis, qigong masters, and ancient practitioners for thousands of years.
How DMP Helps Different Groups
DMP benefits everyone—from kids to the elderly. For children, it improves social skills, emotional regulation, and self-esteem. Adults find it helps manage stress, anxiety, and depression. For the elderly, it enhances mobility, cognitive function, and social engagement.
Services I Offer
I offer two main services:
In-Person Sessions
Tailored one-to-one and group sessions for schools, nursing homes, mental health centers, and community centers. These sessions promote well-being and emotional healing for clients of all ages and backgrounds.
Online Sessions
Personalized one-on-one sessions from the comfort of your home. We’ll explore emotions, release tension, and reconnect with your body through guided movement. These sessions are flexible and designed to meet your unique needs and goals.
Conclusion: Embracing the Journey of Healing
Interested in how DMP can help you or your organization? Contact me to learn more. I’m here to provide tips, resources, and support. Let’s work together to foster health, well-being, and self-discovery through the power of movement.
I hope this article has shed some light on DMP and its transformative potential. Now, tell me, how did you first learn about DMP? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Warmly,
Erica
