The Drama Therapy minor integrates study in psychology, biology, and theatre and prepares students for post-Baccalaureate programs in Drama Therapy or to pursue National Association for Drama Therapy accredited certification programs.
The exciting reality of Drama Therapy is the integration of biology, psychology, and theatre and its relation to physical and mental rehabilitation. Its function is to assist the patient in achieving symptom relief, emotional and physical integration, and personal growth. Using role play, theatre games, mime, puppetry, improvisation, mask work, psychodrama and developmental psychology, drama therapists work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, schools, mental centers, prisons, and businesses.
The National Association for Drama Therapy (NADT) was incorporated in 1979 to establish and uphold rigorous standards of professional competence for drama therapists. The organization maintains requirements that must be met to qualify as a Registered Drama Therapist (RDT). NADT promotes drama therapy through information and advocacy and defines the field as “…the intentional use of drama and/or theater processes to achieve therapeutic goals.”
“Drama therapy is active and experiential. This approach can provide the context for participants to tell their stories, set goals and solve problems, express feelings, or achieve catharsis. Through drama, the depth and breadth of inner experience can be actively explored and interpersonal relationship skills can be enhanced. Participants can expand their repertoire of dramatic roles to find that their own life roles have been strengthened.” (http://www.nadta.org/)
Career Opportunities
The Drama Therapy Minor at Marymount Manhattan College prepares students to enter post-Baccalaureate programs in Drama Therapy (e.g., New York University and Concordia University) or pursue Integral Studies, The Institute for the Arts in Pyschotherapy, Drama Therapy Institute of Los Angeles, New Haven Drama Therapy Institute and The Institute For Healing and Wellness, Inc. and Omega Theatre. This minor encourages students from various disciplines to become aware of alternative career opportunities.