When we think of therapy, most of us picture talking about our days, weeks, relationships, jobs, etc.
While words are powerful, they’re not the only way to heal.
Drama therapy is a form of creative arts therapy that uses role play, storytelling, movement, and improvisation to help people explore emotions, build insight, and find new paths toward growth.
At Thrive Creative Arts Therapy, we integrate drama therapy into our work because we’ve seen how powerful it can be for children, teens, and adults alike.
How Drama Therapy Works
Drama therapy is based on the idea that we are all storytellers. Through creative play and role exploration, clients can:
- Step into new perspectives and discover hidden strengths.
- Safely externalize difficult emotions or experiences.
- Practice coping skills in a supportive, imaginative setting.
- Rehearse healthier patterns for relationships and communication.
A session might include activities like improvisation, movement, guided imagery, or creating characters that represent different parts of the self. No acting experience is needed, the focus is on process, not performance.
Evidence-Based Benefits
Drama therapy has been shown to support individuals with:
- Trauma recovery and PTSD
- Anxiety and depression
- Social skills and self-esteem challenges
- Stress management and emotional regulation
- Developmental, behavioral, or learning differences
Research highlights that drama therapy encourages neuroplasticity by engaging multiple areas of the brain at once, supporting both emotional healing and cognitive flexibility.
Drama Therapy in Action at Thrive
Our drama therapists Amanda & Mary, tailor each session to the individual. A child might explore emotions through puppetry or role play, while an adult might use storytelling to reframe past experiences. For groups, drama therapy can foster connection, empathy, and community through shared creative expression.
Drama therapy offers a safe, creative space to step into new roles, tell your story in fresh ways, and discover pathways to healing. At Thrive Creative Arts Therapy, we believe creativity has the power to connect us with our deepest selves and with others.
Contact us today to learn more about drama therapy and how it might support your journey.
