Understanding and Applying Elements of Drama Therapy Appropriately
Given that contemporary pop-culture often, unfortunately, depicts “the drama” as the experience of extremely unpleasant, out-of-control behavior best avoided (“Don’t make a scene…”), there is clearly a great need to articulate the beneficial aspects of drama. For health professionals that already appreciate the therapeutic benefits of theatre, there is a clear need to distinguish the therapeutic from the therapy; to differentiate between the clinical practice of drama therapy and the many beneficial education and outreach programs run by improv and other theatre companies.
Drama contains many essential elements that can be directed to therapeutic ends. Projection, Transformation, Perspective, Scripting, Spontaneity, Role Investment, and Role Variation are but a few of the powerful components within drama that can bring about positive change when properly understood and effectively channeled. The clinical practice of Drama Therapy draws from a rich variety of theatre practices that truly go back centuries.
You can gain an assisted launch into the play space of drama in clinical practice by coming onboard the webinar, “Introduction to Drama Therapy”, conducted on August 23rd from 12 – 2 pm (CST), and offered again August 24th from 6 – 8 pm (CST) by Registered Drama Therapist, Keith Whipple (RDT). Mr. Whipple has been involved in the field since the late 80’s, has performed and taught improvisation (or improv) with Chicago ComedySportz since 1994, and for the past 14 years has served clients of all ages at the Institute for Therapy through the Arts. 
This 2 hour webinar will cover the foundations of a practice in Drama Therapy with applications to a wide variety of clientele, providing explanation of terminology and methods and case history examples, as well as reviewing the importance of a clearly defined application criteria and scope of practice when using drama methods in any setting.
This webinar does not act as, nor can it be taken as a substitute for, the introductory coursework in drama therapy necessary for certification in the field. However, it will provide creative arts therapists and other interested clinicians and students with a more developed understanding of concepts and practices in Drama Therapy.
Grab your paper and pen, or tablet and stylus, think of a story you know by heart, and please join us!