Drama As Therapy
Beyond Image Therapeutic Services
Providing Integrative Drama Therapeutic Services to individuals, groups and families in crisis. We work in a variety of settings from individual one to one, groups within the NHS, specialised learning environment units, Psychiatric Hospital settings, and private residences for those suffering from a variety of mental illnesses.
Drama as therapy is a form of psychological therapy in which the performance arts are utilised within the therapeutic relationship.‘Drama as therapy’ is a dynamic approach that helps the client tell his or her story to solve a problem, achieve a catharsis, extend the depth and breadth of inner experience, understand the meaning of images, and strengthen the ability to observe personal roles while increasing flexibility between roles.
As Psychotherapists who specialise in ‘Drama as Therapy’ we draw on our training as Integrative clinician’s, and our training in performance arts, (theatre, drama & dance) to create methods to engage clients in effecting psychological, emotional and social changes.
‘Drama as Therapy’ is a holistic approach which gives equal validity to body, mind and spirit within the dramatic context. Stories, myths, play texts, puppetry, masks improvisation and movement are examples of the range of artistic interventions used in a ‘Drama as Therapy’ session.
Clients who are referred for a ‘drama as therapy’ session do not need to have previous experience or skill in acting, theatre, drama or movement. We are trained to enable clients to find the most suitable medium for them to engage in group or individual therapy to address and resolve, or make troubling issues more bearable.
The first session
We firstly assess the client(s) and find out their exact needs. Then together we will figure out the best way to approach those needs. There are many different types of drama that can take place, but what is best for an individual will be determined by their individual needs, group needs, interests, goals, skill and ability. You will never be forced to do anything that you do not feel comfortable in doing, we move at your pace. Along the way you will discover and learn new skills, and open yourself up to new possibilities.
All our therapists are registered with, and abide by, the BACP professional Code of Ethics and Practice. As part of this code we are professionally supervised by highly experienced and qualified supervisors and are commited to ethical practice.
Please note that ‘Dramatherapy’ is a regulated discipline and as such is controlled by BADTH. For further information on ‘Dramathrapy’ please go to www.badth.org.uk
Jim Rymer CV
JI hold a BSc(Hons) in Integrative Counselling and Psychotherapy from Middlesex University as well as a BA (Ths) From Manchester University. MBACP registered Psychotherapist.
Prior to this I trained as an actor and director in Bull Alley Performance Arts College Dublin for three years gaining a distinction in Drama in Education.(PLC)
I currently work for Norfolk Children’s Services as a member of the Targeted Mental Health in Schools Team in Kings Lynn on the PATHS project.
I work as a psychotherapist for the NHS in Thurlow House a family and adolescent unit in Kings Lynn Norfolk and in the new secure Unit in Hellsdon Hospital Norfolk for the NHS.
For the last four years I have been working as a Psychotherapist in ‘Omnia’ a residential unit for long term and enduring mental health patients, many of which have duel diagnosis and some a forensic history. This successful programme offers group sessions in Drama as Therapy.
I have experience working for NORCAS with those suffering from drug and alcohol abuse. I have also worked as a therapist for Mind in Norwich.
I have given several seminars, training days and Inset days on behalf of Body, Mind & Soul and Well business in Norfolk.
I am a lecturer with Matrix College of Counselling and Psychotherapy Norwich and Ipswich on their Certificate and Diploma course, validated through Middlesex University.
