Lesley University’s Master’s program in Expressive Therapies: Dance Therapy with a specialization in Mental Health Counseling equips students with the theoretical and practical knowledge needed to become an effective, qualified dance/movement therapist.
• Qualify for the Registered Dance/Movement Therapist (R-DMT) credential and graduate with a degree approved by the American Dance Therapy Association
• Qualify for the Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) credential in Massachusetts
• Gain extensive and valuable field experience
• Learn from leaders in the fields of dance/movement therapy and expressive therapies
• Study full-time or part-time
• Celebrate creative expression through the use of movement and dance
The 60-credit M.A. in Expressive Therapies: Dance Therapy with a Specialization in Mental Health Counseling trains students in the psychotherapeutic use of dance and movement. Students learn to address the emotional, cognitive, physical, and spiritual health of the individual. Dance/movement is the primary medium used for observation, assessment, research, therapeutic interaction, and intervention. The Lesley Dance Movement Therapy program focuses on using self as instrument, integration of theory and practice, making connections with diverse populations and building community.
The Dance Therapy specialization encourages students to become critical thinkers; creative, reflective, mindful practitioners; and instruments of therapeutic and social change. Direct supervised contact with clients from a range of populations is required within the 1150 hours of field experience so that you can leave the program fully prepared for professional practice.
Program Coordinator:
Dr. Nancy Beardall (617-349-8413)
Meet our Dance/Movement Therapy FacultyView the program of study for the Master of Arts in Expressive Therapies: Dance Therapy w/ a Specialization in Mental Health Counseling
SUMMER AT LESLEYExperience Lesley's Dance Therapy Program by enrolling in a summer course.
Introduction to Dance/Movement Therapy
August 5th - August 9th
Low-Residency Option
The M.A. in Dance Therapy is now offered in a low-residency learning
model.
Learn more.
Sample Course Descriptions
Theory and Practice of Group Work
3 credits
A group experience which familiarizes participants with the theory and practice of group dynamics in mental health counseling and dance therapy. It fosters professional development by emphasizing self awareness in the counselor. Students also come to understand their interpersonal style as it aids and/or hinders effective group functioning and leadership style.
Body/Movement Observation and Assessment I
3 credits
This course introduces the student to LMA (Laban Movement Analysis) and how this system is used for observation and assessment in everyday movement and clinical settings.
Examining Power, Privilege and Oppression in Clinical Practice
3 credits
Examines theoretical and personal perspectives pertaining to gender, race, class, ethnicity, religion, and sexual orientation in mental health counseling and expressive therapies. Students examine their cultural identities and identify sociocultural biases and prejudices. They develop the ability to critique existing theory and practice from a multicultural lens. Students will be expected to understand issues of power, privilege, and oppression as they apply to the therapeutic relationship.
Faculty Spotlight
Michele Forinash
Professor of Expressive Therapies; Director of the Doctoral Program in Expressive Therapies
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Karen Estrella
Associate Professor, Expressive Therapies
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