The Essential Information On Drama Therapy
Drama Therapy: An Art in Progress
Many people know the saying "All the world's a stage". But could this stage also be a platform for addressing psychological and mental health issues (e.g., depression and anxiety)? Welcome to the interesting world of drama therapy.
What does a drama therapist do?
As an arts therapy, drama therapists work with people to help them express and explore their internal experiences. These practitioners use role play, improvisation, storytelling, and other performance techniques. Therapists aim to foster a safe environment for individuals to explore a wide range of feelings and emotions.
But their expertise can span beyond the therapy room. Drama therapists apply their skills in a variety of settings. For instance, health care and social care institutions, schools, prisons, and even businesses.
What do I need to become a drama therapist?
Embarking on a journey to become a drama therapist starts with a degree in a psychological health-related discipline. Subjects include psychology, social work, or counselling. Then, potential drama therapists complete a postgraduate program accredited by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). These qualifications combine academic learning with clinical practice.
Real-world experience is also vital, much like rehearsals for a play. HCPC mandates drama therapists have relevant work experience. People obtain such credentials in roles such as social workers. This background helps prepare practitioners to work therapeutically with a diverse range of individuals.
How much do drama therapists get paid?
But what's the financial return for this unique profession? Drama therapists in the UK earn an average salary of about £37,000 per year, as reported by the National Careers Service. The cost of education, however, ranges from £7,000 to £15,000 per year for postgraduate drama therapy courses.
What's the evidence?
Now, let's address the evidence supporting drama therapy. While research is still emerging, some studies indicate its potential. A study in The Arts in Psychotherapy suggests that drama therapy could improve psychosocial well-being. However, more comprehensive research is needed.
Currently, the field lacks substantial numbers of large-scale, randomised controlled trials, the gold standard in psychological research. Studies such as those by Sajnani and colleagues (1) and others (2) underscore the need for such trials. These papers emphasise that while anecdotal reports about the transformative impact of drama therapy are encouraging, the scientific community needs robust empirical evidence.
Summary
The field of drama therapy is promising and holds immense potential. Despite the lack of definitive scientific evidence, it offers a unique therapeutic experience. If you're considering this profession or exploring therapeutic options, drama therapy presents an exciting way to enact the scripts of our lives.
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References
(1) Sajnani, N., Mayor, C., Azoulay, R., & Linds, W. (2021). Examining evidence-based practice in drama therapy. Drama Therapy Review, 7(1), 69-93.
(2) Snow, S., D'Amico, M., Tanguay, D., & Hahna, N. (2022). Drama therapy and psychosocial well-being: An emerging field with promising findings. The Arts in Psychotherapy.
