Date of Award
Spring 5-16-2026
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Bachelor of Arts
Major
Expressive Therapies
First Advisor
Meg Chang
Abstract
This literature review examines the use of Dance movement therapy to enhance trauma processing during Experiential mastery play in Child centered play therapy. The purpose of this review is to evaluate existing research on trauma in adolescents, Dance movement therapy, and Child centered play therapy to understand the support and effectiveness of combining these interventions. The paper discussed research on the following topics: Adverse childhood experiences, Dance movement therapy, Child centered play therapy, Experiential mastery play, and kinesthetic empathy. As this is a growing topic, the discussion section explores the overlap of Dance movement therapy and Child centered play therapy, gaps in the literature, and ideas for future research. Overall the review discusses the effectiveness of these interventions in trauma treatment, but highlights the need for further research to back the argument of the combination interventions to enhance trauma processing.
Recommended Citation
Walsh, Fallon M., "Dance Movement Therapy enhances Experiential Master Play in Child Centered Play Therapy: Literature Review" (2026). Expressive Therapies Theses. 110.
https://digitalcommons.lesley.edu/expressive_therapies_theses/110
