Into the Body - Dance Movement Psychotherapy Taster Session

Into the Body is an introductory session for anyone interested in Dance Movement Psychotherapy (DMP).

Join Fiona and Mareike for a taster of what a DMP session feels like and some theory around how and why DMP works! 

The session will include embodiment and guided movement exercises, space for creative exploration and DMP experientials to understand the science behind Dance Therapy. 

You might be interested in Dance Movement Psychotherapy for your own wellbeing, as a possible future career or you might just be curious and keen to try something new! 

Everyone is welcome. 

No dance/movement or creative experience necessary. 

Open to adults only. Please contact movingwithfiona@gmail.com to enquire about work with children/young people.

What is Dance Movement Psychotherapy?

DMP is one for the creative arts therapies and is a space for psychological, emotional, relational and spiritual exploration and growth. DMP recognises body movement as universal and innate communication and expression. DMP is a relational process in which client(s) and therapist engage creatively using body movement and dance, as well as verbal and non-verbal reflection.

Dance Movement Psychotherapists offer embodied interventions that take into account the client’s lived experience in the context of the social system they live in, how they experience living in their body and relationship to their body, how they think about themselves and their relationships, as well as emotional responses that may be hard to put into words. 

At the heart of DMP is the intrinsic belief in the interconnection between psyche, soma, and spirit.

Practised both 1:1 and in groups DMP can be helpful for:

• Increasing self-esteem and confidence
• Building inner resources
• Processing and expressing emotion
• Communication and social skills
• Relationship skills
• Building coping strategies
• Improving Body/mind connection
• Exploration of relational/developmental issues
• Developing creativity and freedom of expression

This session also serves as a taster for a Dance Movement Psychotherapy group that will be running at Yogasara in the Autumn. 

About the Facilitators:

Fiona -

Fiona is a Dance Movement Psychotherapist and Creative Practitioner working across the third sector and in private practice.

Her approach to therapy is integrative, with a person-centred approach at the heart of her practice. Since graduating in 2019, Fiona has been working with children, young people and adults affected by parental substance use, bereavement and experience of trauma, abuse and neglect.

Fiona is passionate about the power of the therapeutic relationship alongside creative expression to provide an environment for growth and change. She sees the development of compassion as vital in improving mental health and wellbeing.

Fiona uses a multi-disciplinary creative approach to meet her clients where they are. With a background in art and theatre, the use of imagery, play and improvisation are also key elements of her work.

Website: www.movingwithfiona.com

Mareike -

Mareike is passionate about exploring creative ways that enable a deepen connection with the self and our environment. 

Working with a person-centered approach, she offers a range of creative ways for connection, expression and exploring deeper psychological issues – through movement, play, the use of art and imagery, as well as talking.

Dance Movement Psychotherapy can help by using the creative process to unlock our own inner resources, find alternative perspectives, and realise our sense of safety within the body. 

Her core work lies in providing a safe and trusting environment in which inner processes can unfold in their own time and their unique way. 

Since 2012 she has also been practicing Focusing – allowing a deep sensitivity towards the more subtle and complex ways of inner experiencing.

She currently work in a special needs school as well as a Creative Therapy Centre, working with children, teenagers and adults.

Email: mareikeringena@gmail.com