What is Dance/Movement Therapy?
Dance/movement therapy (DMT) is a creative arts therapeutic modality that draws on the intrinsic characteristics of dance as an embodied art form. Dancing provides a multi-sensory experience that engages the “whole person”: body, mind, and spirit.
Our Approach to Dance/Movement Therapy
In a Dance/Movement Therapy (DMT) session, the format may vary based on the group, but it generally follows this structure:
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1. Embodied Warm-up: Every session starts with a physical warm-up.
2. Responsive Exploration: The dance/movement therapist tailors the session to address the client's needs and encourages movement release.
3. Thematic Development: The majority of the session focuses on exploring and resolving a specific theme.
4. Meaningful Closure: The session concludes with a significant movement-based closure.
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DMT is versatile and can benefit individuals of all ages, including those with various developmental, mental, cognitive, physical, social, and psychological challenges. The goals of DMT sessions are designed to align with the client's abilities and aspirations using a strengths-based approach.
Benefits of Dance/Movement Therapy
Sessions may involve the use of props (e.g. scarves, music-making), partnered dancing, mirrored movement, exploring different movement dynamics/qualities, verbal sharing, and times of stillness/focus on the breath.
Participants are encouraged to engage in the creative process, through which new meanings and personal growth may occur. Outcomes include:
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Increased body-awareness
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Vitality
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Empowerment
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Joy
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Social connection
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Coping skills
How Our Process Works
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Book Your Free Consultation
In our 15-minute consultation, we'll work together to figure out your home and residents' needs. We'll also take a look at what resources and spaces are available as well as which of our avaialble packages can suit your needs. This helps us set clear goals and work within your budget.
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Find the Right Dance/Movement Therapist
Our certified dance/movement therapists are experienced with older adults and long-term care. We'll help you connect with one of our available team members who can visit your home and align with your needs. We'll collaborate to design a tailored program, schedule sessions, and create a comfortable setting in your facility.
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Implement and Monitor the Program
As we roll out the program, we'll keep an eye on the impact it has on your residents. We'll adjust things as needed based on their feedback and the results we see, ensuring that the dance/movement therapy program we've put in place enhances their quality of life.
Powered by Certified Dance/Movement Therapists
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Eden Champagne
Lead Dance/Movement Therapist
In Canada, the field of DMT is growing and evolving. Currently, no Master’s level degree exists in Canada. Practicing DMTs in Canada must either have obtained their training abroad (e.g. United States, Europe) or have completed the Alternate Route DMT program at the National Center for Dance Therapy in Montreal, as well as another Master’s degree in psychology/health.
Packages
Discover your perfect package! Our customized care partnerships offer a certified dance/movement therapist, in-service for your team, individual and group sessions, documentation, specialized programs, and a yearly talent show for your entire community.
Drop-In
Weekly group sessions.
Half-Day
Group sessions, 1 to 1 sessions, and documentation.
Full-Day +
Group, 1 to 1, specialty programs, yearly talent show, documentation and more.
More About MCC
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How can our organization get started with a care partnership with MIYA Creative Care?Initiating a care partnership with MIYA Creative Care is simple and seamless. Reach out to our team through the contact information provided on our website, and we will schedule a consultation to discuss your organization's specific needs, goals, and preferences. Together, we will design a creative arts therapy program that aligns with your vision and enhances the well-being of your residents or patients. We always begin partnerships with an in-service presentation for your team, a referral form, and ensuring clarity along the way.
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How does MIYA Creative Care ensure that its therapists integrate as part of our care team?At MIYA Creative Care, we ensure that our therapists seamlessly integrate as part of your care team by selecting individuals who align with your values and specific needs. Through open communication and collaboration, our therapists become an integral part of your organization, fostering a cohesive approach to care. Each of our therapists is assigned a Clinical Lead who helps to guide them and provide support, sometimes visiting on-site. Moreover, we encourage our therapists can take part in your team's care meetings, documentation and collaborative events. Our referral system and experience with documentation help to provide clear communication tools with the greater care team.
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How can creative arts therapies benefit residents and patients in various settings?Music therapy, art therapy and dance/movement therapy have been shown to have profound positive effects on individuals in care settings. These therapies can help reduce feelings of isolation, anxiety, and depression while fostering a sense of community and self-expression. Engaging in music, art, and movement therapy can also stimulate cognitive function, reduce challenging behaviours and provide an avenue for emotional release and processing.
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What types of creative arts therapies does MIYA Creative Care offer through its care partnerships?At MIYA Creative Care, our care partnerships include a range of creative arts therapies, such as music therapy, art therapy, and dance-movement therapy. Our team of certified therapists are well-versed in integrating these modalities to cater to the diverse needs and preferences of individuals in care settings.
What Our Clients Have to Say
Bring Dance/Movement Therapy to
Your Long-Term Care Home
At MIYA Creative Care, we run in-person DMT groups in the community or in more clinical settings such as long-term care residences and hospitals. Virtual 1-on-1 sessions are also available, as well as groups for particular clients, such as older adults who join in from home. Connect with us today to learn more about the therapeutic advantages of dance/movement therapy.