Date of Award
Spring 5-16-2026
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Major
Clinical Mental Health Counselling
First Advisor
Wendy Allen PhD, LPC, BC-DMT
Second Advisor
Ashley Abesamra, LMHC, BC-DMT
Abstract
Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD) affects approximately 5% to 6% of school-age children globally. While the primary symptoms involve challenges with motor coordination, the impact often extends to a child’s social and emotional well-being, leading to increased anxiety and social isolation. Current interventions, such as occupational and physical therapy, focus largely on functional skill-building. However, these methods may not fully address the emotional and psychological experiences of the child. This thesis explores how Dance/Movement Therapy (DMT) can serve as a vital link between physical rehabilitation and emotional support. By examining research on neurobiology and therapeutic movement, this paper argues that DMT helps children move beyond the frustration of motor limitations. By prioritizing creative expression and bodily autonomy, DMT allows children to build confidence and develop a more positive relationship with their bodies. This research suggests that integrating expressive movement into existing support frameworks is essential for improving the overall quality of life for children with DCD.
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial 4.0 License
Recommended Citation
Espinoza-Flores, Anjelica R., "Bridging the Gap - Integrating Dance/Movement Therapy (DMT) into Support Frameworks for Children with Developmental Coordination Disorder: A Literature Review" (2026). Expressive Therapies Theses. 97.
https://digitalcommons.lesley.edu/expressive_therapies_theses/97
