Dramatherapy: Theory and Practice: v.2

The second volume of Dramatherapy: Theory and Practice brings together well-known international artists and clinicians, who are all practising therapists, to debate and describe the practice of dramatherapy. The contributions offer a wide variety of perspectives from contrasting theoretical backgrounds, but all are connected through the dramatherapy itself. Dramatherapy: Theory and Practice provides a developed view of the now established profession and practice of dramatherapy and maintains a balance between our understanding of theatre and therapy. Both editors and contributors believe that there has been an overemphasis of scientific models and the clinical analysis of therepeutic processes and that insufficient attention has been paid to the artistic and creative potential inherent in every human being. Individual chapters deal with theory and practice, research and assessment. Work with individuals as well as groups is considered and attention is paid to the importance of staff and patient settings. Dramatherapy is considered in relation to Playtherapy, a related approach applicable to both children and adults, and also in relation to the community. Dramatherapy: Theory and Practice 2 strikes a comfortable but provocative balance in presenting the practical application of dramatherapy in many different areas and an easily-grasped theoretical understanding of the basic principles and concepts involved. As a sequel to Sue Jennings's earlier book Dramatherapy: Theory and Practice for Teachers and Clinicians (1987), which has become an established text, it will be essential reading for all dramatherapists in training or practice. While professionals in Health and Social Services, Education and Probation will find if very relevant to their practice and thinking, it also makes a valuable contribution to the study of Theatre and Drama for both performers and directors.