Dance therapy, also known as movement therapy, is a form of alternative therapy that uses dance and movement to promote emotional, cognitive, and physical well-being. The field is growing rapidly, and there is a high demand for trained dance therapists. Let’s take a look at some of the best colleges and universities in the world that offer dance therapy programs.
1. Naropa University, USA
Naropa University, located in Boulder, Colorado, offers a Master of Arts in Dance/Movement Therapy and Counseling. This program is highly respected in the field of dance therapy, and many of its graduates are employed as dance therapists in hospitals, mental health clinics, and private practices.
2. Lesley University, USA
Lesley University is located in Cambridge, Massachusetts, and offers a Master of Arts in Expressive Therapies with a concentration in Dance/Movement Therapy. The program is nationally recognized and prepares students for careers in dance therapy, art therapy, and music therapy.
3. Columbia College Chicago, USA
Columbia College Chicago offers a Bachelor of Arts in Dance/Movement Therapy, as well as a Master of Arts in Dance/Movement Therapy and Counseling. The program focuses on integrating dance and movement with psychology and counseling, and includes a clinical internship for hands-on experience.
4. Zurich University of the Arts, Switzerland
Zurich University of the Arts offers a Master of Arts in Dance/Movement Therapy. The program is highly respected in Europe and includes an interdisciplinary approach to dance therapy, integrating theory and practice from psychology, neuroscience, and dance.
5. University of Derby, UK
The University of Derby in the UK offers a Master of Arts in Dance Movement Psychotherapy. The program emphasizes experiential learning, and students participate in a variety of workshops and clinical placements to prepare them for careers in dance therapy.
6. California Institute of Integral Studies, USA
The California Institute of Integral Studies in San Francisco offers a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology with a concentration in Expressive Arts Therapy. The program includes a specialization in Dance/Movement Therapy, and students are trained in various modalities such as body-centered psychotherapy, somatic psychology, and mindfulness-based interventions.
7. University of Haifa, Israel
The University of Haifa in Israel offers a Master of Arts in Creative Arts Therapies with a specialization in Dance/Movement Therapy. The program includes courses in psychology, counseling, and dance therapy, and students have the opportunity to practice in various clinical settings.
In conclusion, dance therapy is a growing field, and there is a high demand for trained professionals. These colleges and universities offer excellent dance therapy programs that provide students with the skills and experience necessary to succeed as dance therapists. If you are interested in pursuing a career in dance therapy, consider applying to one of these institutions.
