Dance Movement Therapy Processes and Interventions in the Treatment of Children With Anxiety Disorders Derived From Treatment Therapy Logs

Abstract

"Dance movement therapy (DMT) offers children a space to encounter strengths and experience a sense of vitality in order to increase their sense of confidence and self-awareness, thereby easing their anxiety and/or helping them achieve more adaptive emotion regulation. While previous studies indicate that DMT effectively reduces anxiety symptoms, such as stress, scant research focuses on the nature of the therapeutic interventions and how they assist in treating anxiety. This study examined DMT techniques and interventions through their documentation in therapy logs tracking eight long-term treatments of children aged 8–11 coping with anxiety symptoms. Four intervention axes were identified: (1) action-promoting interventions (2) separation-promoting interventions; (3) interventions for strengthening the sense of self; and (4) integration-promoting interventions. Based on the findings, a therapeutic model is proposed drawing on various “mirroring” interventions as the basis for forming the therapeutic relationship and additional therapeutic interventions involving movement. The model enables the child to explore their experience of the relationship, understand themselves in a new way, and create meaning. This manuscript is part of manuscripts submitted for publication."

Harmonizing Mind, Body, and Earth: Exploring the Therapeutic Synergy of Dance Movement Therapy and Ecopsychology

“…The demonstrated impact of DMT across diverse populations, including individuals having dementia (Wang et al, 2021) and breast cancer patients (Ho et al, 2016), underscores its versatility and potential applicability across different contexts. Additionally, qualitative assessments of DMT techniques, as conducted by Nardi et al (2022), propose a therapeutic model based on "mirroring" interventions, enabling individuals, especially children coping with anxiety, to explore personal experiences and create meaning through movement. Overall, the literature review paints a rich tapestry of DMT research, showcasing its adaptability and application across various contexts.…”

“…Auborg's (2018) project delves into the efficacy of DMT in engaging adolescents within a therapeutic context, highlighting the positive impact of movement experiences and emotional content on motivation and emotional well-being. This theme is echoed by Nardi et al (2022), who propose a therapeutic model based on "mirroring" interventions for children coping with anxiety, emphasizing the role of movement in exploring and understanding personal experiences. The importance of DMT (Dance Movement Therapy) reaches various groups, as demonstrated by Bräuninger's (2015) investigation into grounding activities during sessions involving elderly individuals with dementia and adults with intellectual disabilities.…”