What is Drama Therapy?

Child playing with PlaydoughDramatherapy (correctly spelled as one word) is a unique form of psychotherapy suitable for children aged three and upwards that uses story, art, music, drama and play.

Drama therapists are trained to use these art forms as way of communicating with children about their feelings, thoughts and behaviour. It is often difficult for children to find words for their feelings, and these creative activities offer them a natural and safe way to understand and express their experience.

Who can benefit from Dramatherapy?

Children and adolescents with:

bullet Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
bullet Emotional and Behavioural Difficulties (EBD)
bullet Learning difficulties
bullet Physical and sensory disabilities
bullet Attachment related difficulties

Children and adolescents who are dealing with:

bullet Change or loss, e.g. divorce, bereavement, or moving home
bullet Peer related difficulties
bullet Foster care and adoption transition
bullet Physical and sensory disabilities
bullet Lack of self-esteem

Children and adolescents who have experienced or been witness to:

bullet Trauma e.g. violence or abuse

How Can Dramatherapy Help?

Dramatherapists work closely with each client and their parents/carers/teachers to determine what their aims and hopes are, and sessions are tailored to meet the individual needs of the child and the creative activities they prefer. Dramatherapy is a unique and effective approach, which allows children to:

bullet Develop interpersonal communication
bullet Improve their relationships
bullet Increase their self-esteem and self-awareness
bullet Process difficult life experience
bullet Discover new coping strategies
bullet Realise their full potential

A Note On Confidentiality:

Dramatherapy is most likely to be successful if the child is secure in knowing that what they say and do in the sessions will remain private. The therapist will explain the limits of confidentiality to the child in the first session (using age appropriate language) and make clear that general feedback will be provided to their parents/carers to keep them informed of themes and progress. Our therapist is fully trained in child protection practice and will ensure that she is informed of the rules of the organisation within which the sessions occur.