Drama-based Therapy

Sometimes a truth is best expressed through what is not necessarily “true”, but through stories and symbols. Using techniques drawn from expressive arts such as drama, literature, and poetry, we explore through embodied and vocal expression what mere words and formulas cannot always accurately touch. At the heart of any arts-informed therapy is the discovery of the meaning-filled nature of your experience,

We all play roles in our lives, in dramatic settings through which various plots are enacted. The objects and relationships in our lives work symbolically to reveal the depth of our interconnectedness to others and the world, in the past, present, and future.

Using theatrical techniques like story-telling, scene work, solo performance, mime, improvisation, ritual, and dance, a drama-based therapist works with individuals and groups to discover their potential for growth. Imagine using wordless movement to express a feeling you can’t explain. Imagine writing a poem to capture an experience you can’t fully describe. Imagine sharing this with a reflective, empathetic guide who accompanies you on your journey as a person and your discovery of yourself as an artist. As your therapist, I offer that accompaniment and guidance.

With a long background in theatre and drama, including children’s theatre, community theatre,  and theatre improv, I received a PhD in Performance Studies in 2011 from UC Davis, and went on to teach dramatic literature at the university level for a number of years. I continue to discover new ways to integrate the power of performance with the art of therapy.