Dance/Movement Therapy and Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorders: A Reflection of Clinical Practices and History

Abstract

Dance/movement therapy (DMT) is a strengths-based approach to psychotherapy that uses dance and movement as the primary form of communication, while emphasizing the movement relationship in addition to verbal dialogue. Positive and negative symptomatology of a diagnosis on the schizophrenia spectrum often disrupt organized thinking, orientation to reality, overall functioning, communication, and healthy relationships. Therefore, a body-based psychotherapeutic approach can be a pragmatic way to support, join, and process with people who have a diagnosis of a schizophrenia spectrum disorder (SSD). This paper explores the positive and negative symptoms of SSD, bodily manifestations of these symptoms, and particular ways to use DMT as a psychosocial treatment option. The use of creativity with this population can support a psychotherapeutic relationship focused on personal strengths, individuality, community development, and unconditional acceptance. This paper is grounded in the historical framework of DMT, particularly considering the theoretical work of Marian Chace and Trudi Schoop. The work is also substantiated anecdotally through the authors’ respective clinical practice with individuals diagnosed on the schizophrenia spectrum and through individual research focused on working with individuals experiencing acute and chronic manifestations of SSD. A brief overview of the current research has been included.