Movement Psychotherapist

Do I need to have previous experience of movement or dance?

No. The aim of using movement is to help people recognise and communicate feelings, and support healthy development by building on each individual’s potential for change. You will not be taught a particular way of moving that is right or wrong, but will be encouraged to explore a greater range of movements.

Does it matter if I feel very scared or shy about movement/my body?

No. People who feel awkward or ill at ease with their bodies often have a lot to gain from this type of therapy. Therapists are used to helping people find a way to start and many people overcome their initial anxiety about moving quite quickly; others may need longer before they feel at ease. The most helpful balance between talking and movement is different for everybody - so you and the therapist will need to discover what is best for you.

What happens if I sometimes don't feel like using movement?

You will never be forced to do any movement that you do not want to do. It is common for people to have times when they are hesitant about moving and talking this over often helps. Sometimes people learn from movements that feel new or unfamiliar but it will be up to you to decide if you want to try a movement that you find challenging.

What sort of problems can be addressed using Movement Psychotherapy?

This type of therapy can help with a wide range of problems to do with the way people feel about themselves and the relationships they have with other people. In particular it can help people to overcome:-

periods of anxiety, panic, lack of confidence and difficulty in coping with feelings of depression, moodiness or emptiness

problems in making or sustaining healthy, satisfying relationships with a partner, friends, or work colleagues

difficulties in adjusting to life changes such as bereavements and separations, job changes, moving home or a period of ill health.

difficult or distressed feelings following childhood trauma or a more recent traumatic incident

some physical health problems caused by, or associated with, stress e.g. eating or sleeping problems.

some longer-term mental health problems.

Movement Psychotherapy can be especially helpful for people who find it hard to talk about personal issues or who 'talk themselves around in circles’ but cannot easily recognise or communicate their feelings.

Is Movement Psychotherapy more suitable for men or women?

Movement Psychotherapy is equally suitable and effective for men and women.

Do I have to wear special clothing?

It is usually best to wear comfortable clothing that does not restrict your movement and that will not be damaged if you stretch or sit on the floor. Women may prefer to wear trousers. However it is not necessary to wear specialist sports or dance clothing. People often work in bare feet, as this enables them to benefit from the sensitivity of their feet, however this is not essential and some people prefer to wear soft, non-slip footwear. In order to protect the floor for those who may wish to work in bare feet, and for people who want to lie down or work at floor level, you will be asked to change out of outdoor shoes/boots.

How long do sessions last?

Individual sessions usually last an hour and group sessions one and a half hours. Before starting a course of therapy, the therapist will arrange to meet so that you have the opportunity to think together about whether Movement Psychotherapy might help you. It is likely that you will also have various questions you would like to ask. A second session is often arranged so that you have time to think over any issues that have been discussed, before making a decision about starting.

How often will I need to attend?

Many people attend therapy once a week but others may attend twice weekly. The therapist will take holiday breaks and will inform you of the dates well in advance. You will usually be expected to pay for all sessions except those when the therapist is on leave.

How long will I need to attend?

This is different for everyone. Therapy takes time and commitment and will not produce sudden changes as some medications do. How long it takes will depend on the problems you bring and how you are able to use the therapy. Some people benefit from 3-6 months of therapy, whilst others may need to continue over a period of several years. Your therapist will discuss this with you at the initial assessment meeting.

Generally therapy is felt to be supportive but it is common for people to find it difficult at times. This may happen when the therapy is touching issues that are uncomfortable to confront. It can be the most important time to continue attending regularly and may eventually prove to be the most rewarding.

It is wise to plan the end of your therapy in discussion with your therapist, well in advance. Discussing and working towards an agreed date will help to prepare you for the ending and is likely to make it an especially beneficial part of therapy.

Does it matter if I am taking medication prescribed by my doctor for my symptoms?

Sometimes medication improves people’s capacity to make use of therapy and at other times it can be less helpful. Always discuss this with the therapist at your initial meeting. You may find that you need less medication as therapy progresses, but always consult your doctor before reducing or stopping your dose.

Can people with physical health problems use Movement Psychotherapy?

Movement Psychotherapy is not necessarily physically demanding and can be adapted to suit people with a variety of physical health problems. It is important for the therapist to be aware of any problems immediately so make sure you discuss this at your initial meeting or, if you are already in therapy, as soon as the problem arises.

Will the therapist need to touch me as part of Movement Psychotherapy?

Touch is not an essential part of Movement Psychotherapy and often it is not used at all. If the therapist thinks touch would be useful at any point she will ask if you are comfortable with this beforehand and respect your wishes. Touch is more likely to be used in group work than in individual therapy, however the therapist will still check out how group members feel about this and support any member of the group who does not wish to be touched. Touch of an intimate or sexual nature is never used or permitted.

How much does therapy cost?

Fees for sessions of individual therapy are on a sliding scale between £40 and £65. Group sessions are £110 per calendar month. The initial assessment meetings vary between £55 and £85.
In certain circumstances of difficulty fees may be reduced.