DMT stands for Dance Movement Therapy. In layman’s terms, this is the clinical practice wherein rhythmic movements accompanied by music (or in a word, dance) are used in the therapy and rehabilitation of a gamut of physical and psychological conditions. These may range from the mildest of impairments to even the more severe diseases. Dance therapy is based on the medical recognition of the link between mind and body, and the use of music to treat even emotional impairments.
DMT dates back to as early as the 1940s, as the American Dance Therapy Association (ADTA) claims. This is a novel approach to disease, because dance movement therapy involves a multidisciplinary system: It incorporates principles of psychology, social work, counseling, special education, physical therapy and rehabilitative medicine. It has shown itself useful in the treatment of children with autism and mental retardation to elderly individuals suffering from Parkinson’s or Alzheimer’s disease.
Like most healthcare positions, DMT careers can be rewarding jobs. You can attend physical therapy schools online, so getting the training you need is more convenient now than ever before. If you think you’d enjoy dance movement therapy jobs, here are the things to consider:
- Will I make a good dance movement therapist? The primary requirement for this health career is a passion for dancing. If you have a natural ability to express yourself through dance, or have studied it before, or simply enjoy the rhythmic movements of the body, you may want to consider this as a viable career path. You should also enjoy the company of people, since this career relies heavily on interpersonal relations. To have an effective career in DMT, you should be adaptable and able to work with people of all ages and passionate in your ideals of service. Like all medical careers, you should be motivated by compassion and service instead of profit. Since you will be giving long term therapy to a lot of patients, you should also be patient and willing to persevere.
- How much will I earn? DMTs earn less than their counterparts in occupational and physical therapy. The average income for these therapist jobs are at $40,000 per year, which is less than OTs and PTs with master’s degrees make. The annual compensation is at a range of $38,000 to $47,000. Despite the financial disadvantage, DMT is the career that allows you to harness your passion for dance, earn a stable amount of income, and help the less fortunate at the same time. The non-financial rewards you reap may be greater than those you can get in other fields.
- What will be my job description? As described, you will be part of a multidisciplinary team that assists in the rehabilitation and therapy of those who require physical and occupational therapy. These will include those with chronic conditions, such as autism, Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s diseases. Therapy will not be limited to physical rehabilitation, but will include emotional and psychological support.
- What are the educational requirements to be a DMT? There are two recognized levels of DMTs: You can either be a registered DMT or a Board-Registered DMT. The registered DMT is the entry DMT, which fresh graduates can apply to. They usually have to be part of a team and do not do solo work. On the other hand, Board-registered DMTs are the ones with more experience and are qualified to teach as well as provide supervisory duties to interns. They can also treat patients as a DMT.
If you’re looking to be a healthcare professional, dance movement therapist careers may be perfect for you. Good luck finding a therapist job.