Center for Eating Disorders at Focus Healthcare

Center for Eating Disorders

at Focus Healthcare of Tennessee

Dance & Movement Therapy

Overview



Dance/Movement Therapy Group at Focus Healthcare

Dance/movement therapy is defined as "the psychotherapeutic use of movement to further the emotional, cognitive, physical, and social integration of the individual" (ADTA, 2008, pp. 2). The freedom in movement and creative expression provides the opportunity to explore non-verbal experiences. As a metaphor for relationships and interactions, dance provides a powerful tool to facilitate wellness for patients with eating disorders. Employing the body to work through body image and disconnection seems a logical method to effect change for these patients.

    Goals for dance/movement therapy group:
  • Develop an accurate body image.
  • Help patients connect with their bodies.
  • Provide a nonverbal expression format to facilitate integration of experiences and insight.
  • Build group cohesiveness and develop understanding of commonality in experiences.

Melissa Meade, Dance Movement Therapist, is a graduate student in mental health counseling at Capella University and alternate route student in dance/movement therapy at the Pratt Institute.

"My life has changed to much since Focus. I am off all medication for the first time in my life. I have not thought this clearly in ten years. I have a voice now. I speak my truth. I still struggle with food issues, but use my Food and Feelings every day. Since Focus I am more confident and clear thinking. I am active in my own recovery."