Foster Care Training

Youth navigating the foster system have been exposed to adverse experiences (e.g. – traumas, insecure attachments) that directly impact their body sense of self, their capacity to utilize their bodies as a resource in relationship, and their ability to connect with a global felt sense of safety and ease in their bodies, all symptoms inevitably conveyed in movement. Families systems caring for these youth often must contend with this on some level.

In this introductory workshop to understanding how dance movement therapy is implemented, participants will examine the theoretical core principles of dance movement therapy as a healing art that is creative, expressive, and integrative. A discussion of some basic methods and principles of movement observation and intervention will be explored. Time will also be structured to allow space for considering how one might utilize dance movement therapy in specific case studies and case consultation when working with youth and families in care.

Workshop will involve movement experiences, reflective discussion, structured observations, and multi-media presentation. Participants will be encouraged to supplement their learning through movement experiences and structured observations. Clothing that is non-restrictive and comfortable in is advised.

COURSE OBJECTIVES

1. Articulate 5 core theoretical principles and 5 key objectives of dance/movement therapy, particularly for children and youth in the foster care system.
2. Explore how 3 systems of understanding the psychological meaning and personal language of movement impact youth in foster care, with an eye towards the concepts of Body Knowledge and Body Prejudice/Reaction as may impact the interpretation of movement meaning.
3. Experience and describe 5 fundamental pathways of movement intervention as a means to stimulate somatic awareness, creativity, evoke feelings, and effect therapeutic insight and change within ourselves as service providers and for the youth in care we serve.