Mental health patients who struggle to articulate their thoughts and emotions are set to benefit from a broader range of therapeutic options, as Kent and Medway Mental Health NHS Trust rolls out Dance Movement Psychotherapy (DMP) across acute inpatient settings in East Kent.
The expansion marks a significant step in diversifying therapeutic support for patients experiencing acute mental ill health. By extending a service already established in North Kent, the trust aims to ensure more individuals can access interventions that go beyond traditional talking therapies.
Dance Movement Psychotherapy is grounded in the link between mind and body. Rather than relying solely on verbal communication, it encourages patients to explore emotions through movement, body awareness and non-verbal expression. This makes it particularly beneficial for those who may feel overwhelmed, disconnected, or unable to put their experiences into words.
Sessions are adapted to suit the needs of each group, with one-to-one support available where appropriate. Importantly, no prior dance experience is required, removing barriers to participation and ensuring accessibility for a diverse patient group.
Cassie Gallagher, Dance Movement Psychotherapist at Kent and Medway Mental Health NHS Trust, emphasised the inclusivity of the therapy:
“Dance Movement Psychotherapy gives people another way to express themselves when words can be difficult. It’s not a dance class and there are no routines to learn, people move as little or as much as they want.
“One patient felt very disconnected from themselves and was struggling to engage with everyday activities. After a session, they told staff they felt able to have a bath for the first time in a long time. That may sound like a small step, but in an acute mental health setting it can be a significant sign that someone is beginning to reconnect with themselves and their surroundings.”
As a group-based intervention, DMP also plays a vital role in strengthening social connections within inpatient wards. By fostering shared experiences, it helps reduce isolation and encourages peer support, which are key components in recovery.
Clinicians delivering the therapy report noticeable improvements in patient confidence, engagement and self-awareness. For NHS leaders and service managers, this highlights the value of embedding creative and person-centred approaches alongside clinical treatment pathways.
The trust’s decision to expand DMP reflects a wider strategic commitment to improving patient experience across services. By offering a broader mix of therapeutic options, Kent and Medway Mental Health NHS Trust is aligning with national priorities around personalised care and patient choice.
For healthcare professionals and decision-makers, the initiative offers a compelling example of how innovative therapies can be integrated into acute care settings to meet diverse patient needs – particularly for those who may not respond to conventional approaches.
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