Introduction to Dramatherapy

This book, by one of the world's leading dramatherapists, introduces the reader to the basic theory and practice of dramatherapy. A brief history of dramatherapy is given, showing how it has developed over the past 40 years, the sources that influenced and shaped it, and the new schools that are emerging. The author explains the therapeutic value of the theatre and the drama that takes place within it, discussing the difference between imagination and fantasy, and the contribution of the drama teacher and play leader to preventative drama. The book also examines the importance of dramatherapy in long-term psychiatric wards, and demonstrates its use in working with people with learning difficulties. The final chapter stresses the importance of specialized training, and explains how a wide range of professionals are able to integrate dramatherapy into their work.