Dance movement psychotherapy with an adult with autistic spectrum disorder: An observational single-case study

Abstract

Dance movement psychotherapy (DMP) is considered to be a relevant and appropriate intervention for people with autistic spectrum disorder (ASD). A number of studies have reported DMP techniques and approaches in therapeutic work with children. Wider therapeutic practice in special education and other settings for children with ASD includes the use of structured narrative approaches in treatment. To date there is limited literature reporting DMP practice with adults with ASD. The aim of the study was to introduce a structured narrative approach in the form of the six-part story within DMP with an adult with ASD. A practice-based research approach was used to generate therapist observations and collect in-therapy responses from one patient. The study results indicate that DMP practice can incorporate structured narrative approaches in work with adults with ASD.

Keywords::

• dance movement psychotherapy
• autistic spectrum disorder
• six-part story
• practice-based research
• single-case study

Acknowledgements

The authors would like to thank the service users and staff at Northgate Hospital Autism Service, Jane Bourne dramatherapist and Toni-Leigh Harrison arts therapies assistant from Northumberland, Tyne and Wear NHS Foundation Trust.