Dance Movement Therapy in Healthcare

Is dance movement therapy (DMT) a viable treatment modality in health care? It is well established as a form of complementary medicine. More recently, oncology, neurology, and geriatrics—especially dementia treatment— have adopted DMT, and this chapter reviews these applications in preventive, curative, rehabilitative, and promotional healthcare. The current state of relevant research is summarized, and practical vignettes illustrate treatment options in various healthcare settings with a wide range of populations. Opportunities for assessment, treatment documentation, and evaluation are highlighted. The chapter’s summary addresses DMT’s contribution to healthcare in promoting wellbeing.