On September 23, 2025, the National Centre for Dance Therapy hosted an introductory workshop for individuals interested in discovering dance therapy and its use as a therapeutic approach. Led by Paula Duffy and Émilie Barrette, the event offered an accessible and experiential introduction to this discipline that combines movement, therapeutic relationship, and well-being.
The facilitators first presented the foundations of dance therapy. This approach is based on the intentional use of movement within a therapeutic setting in order to support personal development, overall health, and the well-being of participants. The workshop also helped distinguish dance therapy from other movement-related practices, such as recreational dance, cultural mediation, adapted dance, or dance intervention.
Following this theoretical introduction, participants were invited to experience a mini session inspired by the classic structure of a dance therapy session. The experience was divided into five stages: warm-up, release, theme, centering, and closure.
The warm-up and release phases allowed participants to gradually connect with their bodies, recognize their sensations, and enter into a collective exploration of movement. These initial stages encouraged greater self awareness as well as openness to the group.
The central theme of the session was then explored in small groups. Although the workshop was not conducted within a complete therapeutic setting, the experience demonstrated how movement can become a language of expression and a tool that encourages reflection and exchange. Participants were able to observe how the body can support communication and personal exploration.
The session concluded with moments of centering and closure that allowed participants to integrate the experience and gradually return to a calmer state. This transition created a gentle and structured ending to the workshop.
In conclusion, the facilitators presented different training opportunities in dance therapy in Canada and internationally. Discussions with participants highlighted a growing interest in this approach, which combines art, human connection, and therapeutic intervention.
This workshop offered a concrete and accessible introduction to dance therapy while demonstrating the potential of movement and body awareness as tools for well-being and support.
