Current Approaches in Drama Therapy

Book excerpt: This second edition of Current Approaches in Drama Therapy offers a revised and updated comprehensive compilation of the primary drama therapy methods and models that are being utilized and taught in the United States and Canada, including four new approaches. It is intended as a basic textbook for the field of drama therapy. Section I provides a context for the state of the field of drama therapy in North America, describing the history of the field, stages in professional development, theory building, emerging areas of interest, and challenges for the future. Section II includes the Integrative Five Phase Model, Role Method, Developmental Transformations, Ritual/Theatre/Therapy, Healing the Wounds of History, Narradrama, Omega Transpersonal Approach, Psychoanalytic Approach, Developmental Themes Approach, ENACT Method, STOP-GAP Method Bergman Drama Therapy Approach, Rehearsals for Growth, and Performance in drama therapy. Section III describes four related approachesOCoPsychodrama, Socio-drama, Playback Theatre, and Theatre of the Oppressed, each of which has had significant influence on drama therapy practice. A distinct index of key concepts in drama therapy is included, demonstrating the consolidation and breadth of theory in the field. This highly informative and indispensable volume is geared toward drama therapy training programs, mental health professionals (counselors, clinical social workers, psychologists, creative art therapists, occupational therapists), theater and drama teachers, school counselors, and organizational development consultants."