Movement therapy, also known as mind-body exercise, is a type of therapy that combines physical activity, body awareness, breathing techniques, and meditation. It is frequently beneficial to people who want to take control of their own health. Advanced training is required to work as a movement therapist. Many people who are interested in movement therapy are also interested in alternative therapies like yoga or Quigong, which is a technique for balancing the body’s chi, or life force energy.
To work as a movement therapist, you must have a broad background in dance and a passion for it. General dance techniques, choreography, and teaching experience should all be included in a dance education. Anatomy and physiology, the study of the body and how it works, as well as kinesiology, or the study of how the body moves, are all required. Volunteering at places like summer camps, nursing homes, and dance schools is a great way to see if a master’s degree in movement therapy is right for you.
Because movement therapists work with people who have emotional, social, cognitive, or behavioral issues as well as physical issues like pain, physical limitations, or general deconditioning, they need training and, in most cases, an advanced degree. The American Dance Therapy Association, or ADTA, recommends that movement therapist education be approved.
The Dance Therapist Registry (DTR) or Academy of Dance Therapist Registry (ADTR) is a higher-level registry that verifies a movement therapist’s education, training, and experience. It denotes a level of knowledge appropriate for teaching movement therapy in a variety of settings. Movement therapy courses must be taught an ADTR instructor, and you will be eligible to apply once you have completed your education.
However, there are other ways to gain the knowledge and credentials needed to work as a movement therapist. A graduate degree in movement therapy is obtained some movement therapy professionals. Others supplement their master’s degree with training from nontraditional sources. Individuals who are studying or have completed study in a related field, such as psychology or special education, and who have a strong interest and background in dance or movement, can take the alternative route.
To work as a movement therapist, you must have a graduate degree in dance/movement therapy from an accredited program. This ensures that you meet all of the Registry’s professional requirements. The ADTA has approved six graduate degree programs at this time. The American Dance Therapy Association has more information on the specifics of a movement therapist career.