Before Drama Therapy Starts: Preparation, Client Selection, and Therapeutic Contract
Drama therapy does not start the moment the client enters the room. It starts much earlier – in the background, where quality determines if the process will be safe and effective.
This preparatory phase is one of the most important parts of the drama therapy craft. Without it, drama would be just play, but not therapy.
Who is a suitable candidate for drama therapy?
Drama therapy is not for everyone in all circumstances. One of the first tasks of a therapist is to assess whether a particular person is indicated for drama therapy – meaning whether this form of therapy matches their needs and current psychological state.
The Therapeutic Contract
The word "contract" may sound formal, but in a therapeutic environment, it has a deep human meaning. It is an agreement between therapist and client that defines the goals, frequency, rules, and boundaries of the work.