Dance Movement Therapy Association in Canada
Education
And those who were seen dancing were thought to be insane by those who could not hear the music.
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Friedrich Nietzsche
How to become a Dance/Movement Therapist?
Entry into the profession of dance movement therapy (DMT) begins at the master’s level of education and requires completion of supervised clinical internships. Dance movement therapists in Canada currently adhere to the Code of Ethics of the American Dance Therapy Association (ADTA) or of the Association for Dance Movement Psychotherapy UK (ADMP UK). Dance movement therapists are also members of psychotherapy and counselling associations in their province or territory.
As there is currently no master’s level programme in dance movement therapy in Canada, two options remain:
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Pursue Alternate Route training in Canada
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Study abroad (international training programs listed below)
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**Please note that these training programs are listed to aid in your search for training but are not particularly endorsed by DMTAC.
Alternate route training in Canada
The Alternate Route is an ADTA-approved alternative to completing a master’s program in DMT. It is a self-directed course of study which requires a master’s degree (ideally in a related field, such as another creative arts therapy, or social work, psychology, counselling, etc.), as well as pre-approved courses in dance movement therapy, supervision and internship hours.
Two Alternate route programs exist in Canada.
The Movement Arc: Dance Therapy and Somatic Education Centre located in British Columbia, offers 2.5 to 4-day weekend courses every 4 to 8 weeks, with 5 to 10-day intensives over the summer. Students can sign up and begin courses any time. Courses are offered in English. Visit www.themovementarc.com
The National Center for Dance Therapy located in Montreal, offers a 405-hour Alternate Route program that takes place over three summers, with a three-week intensive each summer. A new cohort begins the program every three years. Courses are offered in English, with the possibility of submitting written work in French. Visit https://grandsballets.com/en/national-centre-for-dance-therapy/
DMTAC also offers regular workshops, some of which are approved for the Alternate Route or continuing education credits.
Please note that if a continent isn't listed there are no DMT programs at this time.