Related Terms

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Background

• Expressive therapies include dance, drama, literature, music, poetry and the visual arts combined with the practice of psychotherapy. Psychotherapy is an interactive process between a person and a qualified mental health professional in which the patient explores thoughts, feelings and behavior to help with problem solving. Expressive therapists may use a variety of therapies to engage patients in the resolution of psychological difficulties.
• Expressive therapy is a new and emerging field. Lesley University created the nation's first academic expressive therapy department in 1974, and just recently graduated its first doctoral expressive therapy class. Expressive therapists use multiple art modalities along with psychotherapy in their clinical practice, but often focus on a specific modality. The field of expressive therapy recognizes the importance of the arts and creative expression in the process of healing. This type of therapy is commonly used to treat conditions such as depression, anxiety, and grieving, among a variety of other disease states.
• Art therapy: Art therapy became established as a mental health profession in the 1930s and, like the other forms of expressive therapy, is now practiced in hospitals, clinics, public and community agencies, wellness centers, educational institutions, businesses and private practices. It involves the application of a variety of art modalities including drawing, painting, clay and sculpture. It is believed that these methods of art may help people deal with inner conflicts, such that they become more aware of the "inner self."
• Dance/movement therapy: This category of expressive therapy includes martial arts as well as many types of dance. It aims to help people release pent up emotions and gain inner peace. It may be particularly useful in gaining a sense of peace with one's body after being subject to some type of abuse. This type of therapy became distinct in the 1940s, and is known as a psychotherapeutic use of movement. There are currently dance/movement therapists in 43 United States territories and in 21 countries.
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Practice

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Theory/Evidence

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Safety

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Author Information

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References

Natural Standard developed the above evidence-based information based on a thorough systematic review of the available scientific articles. For comprehensive information about alternative and complementary therapies on the professional level, go to www.naturalstandard.com. Selected references are listed below.

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