This article traces two related but distinct traditions: Mettler-based Creative Dance and Dance/Movement Therapy (DMT). It describes the historical development of DMT and Barbara Mettler’s contribution to creative, experiential movement practice.
Creative Dance is presented primarily as an art form centred on creativity, free expression, body awareness, aesthetic experience and connection. It may have therapeutic effects, but it is not psychotherapy.
DMT is described as a clinical psychotherapy practice with treatment goals, assessment, intervention, documentation and specialist professional training. A DMT practitioner may use creative dance as one tool among many, but the therapeutic purpose lies in the clinical relationship and treatment process rather than the dance form itself.
The article concludes that Creative Dance and DMT share the language of movement while differing clearly in purpose, responsibility and professional scope.
