The Origins of Dance Movement Psychotherapy

The practice emerged in the mid-20th century through pioneers like Marian Chace, Trudi Schoop, and Mary Whitehouse, who noticed how movement could unlock emotions and enhance communication in therapeutic settings. Over time, their work evolved into a structured, evidence-based discipline recognized by professional organizations worldwide, such as the Association for Dance Movement Psychotherapy UK (ADMP UK) and the American Dance Therapy Association (ADTA).