Dramatherapy

From the autoethnographic perspectives of practitioners living and working across the globe, this book considers the socio-political stimuli, cultural differences and educational paradigms which influence international approaches to the practice of dramatherapy.

“One of the first edited collections offering glimpses into dramatherapy practice and practitioners around the world. The contributors to the volume share how the cultures of their countries interact with mental health. Each chapter provides fascinating insights into cultural competency in action.” - Sally Bailey, Kansas State University, USA.

Combining historical, socio-cultural, and autoethnographic accounts from a diverse array of international practitioners, this volume documents and celebrates the role that drama as therapy plays globally.

Across the world, there are thriving networks of practitioners whose work draws on dramatherapy—a psychotherapeutic process grounded in relational work, using drama and embodied creative expression to explore and make meaning of lived experience. This volume provides a ground-breaking exploration of the present reality faced by these practitioners across 14 distinct geographical regions spanning 6 continents.

Each chapter offers an overview of the history of dramatherapy as a practice in that country, as well as reflections on the current social and institutional priorities in each cultural environment: from opportunities for engagement with Indigenous historical practices in Australia, to adaptations of established dramatherapy models through integration with Buddhist principles in Sri Lanka. Together, these accounts capture the realities and challenges of practicing creative arts therapies across diverse cultural landscapes. Through discussion, case studies, and practical examples of how tools have been adapted to meet local demands, contributions emphasize the challenges and opportunities facing the field. This volume offers invaluable insights for experienced dramatherapists and trainees, as well as those in adjacent fields who want to learn more about the arts psychotherapies.