Drama Therapy can help with:
- socialization and behavior issues
- dealing with feelings around separation or divorce
- anxiety
- depression
- dealing with serious illnesses
- self-esteem
- peer relationships
- learning disabilities
- grief or loss
How does Drama Therapy with kids and teens work?
The exact process will vary from one therapist to another, but most often, the drama therapist will want to meet first with the parents to get some background information about your child, his or her history, current challenges, and family situation.
In the sessions with your child, the therapist will engage them in play using simple theatrical embodiments such as: pretending to become a variety of different characters, role-playing with puppets, acting out scenes or storytelling. Within these activities the themes and issues your child is dealing with in their life will naturally reveal themselves. Drama therapy sessions are at times divided between engaging in play and talking about thoughts or feelings related to real life. Often in-depth discussion is not needed as the act of embodiment is therapeutic itself (especially for younger children).
Throughout the process, the therapist may also want to schedule periodic meetings with you to give feedback and involve you in the treatment plan.