MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Somatic Counseling: Dance/Movement Theories & Practice Concentration at Naropa University
he MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Somatic Counseling: Dance/Movement Theories & Practice Concentration is a three-year on-campus program that focuses on counseling, the healing potential of the creative experience, and the therapeutic properties of conscious movement sequencing. Students in the concentration receive robust training in somatic movement therapy’s theoretical aspects.
The Dance/Movement Theories and Practice Concentration spans 64 credits over three years, emphasizing counseling skills, harnessing the transformative power of creative experiences, and using intentional movement sequencing for therapeutic benefits. The concentration is designed to follow standards for Clinical Mental Health Counseling as well as guidelines from the American Dance Therapy Association (ADTA). The concentration has been an ADTA-approved program since 1987.
This unique concentration combines dance movement therapy with contemplative practice and clinical mental health counseling. The Dance/Movement Theories & Practice concentration provides students with the theoretical, clinical, and professional skills to be effective counselors grounded in the integration of body, mind, and movement.
In this concentration, you’ll encounter both traditional and innovative dance/movement therapy approaches while exploring self-psychology, the Gestalt-influenced movement cycle, and applied neuroscience. Beyond its academic depth, the master’s program in dance movement therapy offers opportunities for physical, spiritual, and emotional development. You’ll delve deeply into creative methods for client interaction, employing improvisation, rhythm, and metaphor to discover and express your authentic self.