Modality Library
Movement & Fitness

Dance Therapy

Dance therapy (also called dance movement therapy) uses movement and dance as a therapeutic tool to support emotional, cognitive, and physical wellbeing. It bridges the gap between body and mind, helping clients process experiences that words cannot always reach.

Cultural origin

Developed in the United States in the 1940s, drawing on global traditions of healing through movement and rhythm.

What a session involves

Sessions may be structured or free-form depending on the practitioner. You do not need dance experience — this is not performance. Sessions involve guided movement, body awareness exercises, and often reflection. 60–90 minutes.

Who it's for

Anyone working through emotional processing, trauma, anxiety, or body disconnection. Widely used with children, adults, older people, and those with additional needs.

Find a practitioner

Are you a practitioner offering this modality? List your practice on Tera