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The Use of Improvisation in Therapeutic Practices

Betz, Jennifer
http://orcid.org/0000-0002-4949-7148
http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=ksuhonors1557312650223249

Abstract Details

2019, BA, Kent State University, College of Arts and Sciences / Department of Psychological Sciences.
In theatrical improvisation, actors create a performance without the use of a script, and with no prior preparation. The skills and cooperation required for such a feat mirror positive client-therapist relationships, and exercises in improvisation cultivate healthy, flexible ways of being. An array of approaches makes theatrical improvisation flexible enough to use regardless of therapeutic framework. Therapists have used an improvisational mindset to spur improvisational moments, and they have directly integrated exercises and skills into sessions in order to assist in evaluating underlying issues clients may be facing. Short-form improvisation is goal-oriented and can be used in training therapists as well as helping clients. Long-form improvisation provides a structure for longer-term, relationship-based therapeutic interventions. Research is limited, due to the challenge of operationalizing an art form for empirical investigation, but there is plenty of literature on theory and practice. Findings on the few empirical studies available, as well as anecdotal examples provided by authors, indicate that learning and practicing improvisation skills can help therapists develop confidence, therapeutic presence, and charisma. For clients, intervention programs can help them feel more connected and congruent with themselves, and more emotionally flexible.
James Shepherd (Advisor)
Leslie Heaphy (Committee Member)
Robert King (Committee Member)
Brian Betz (Committee Member)
70 p.
Behavioral Sciences; Counseling Education; Counseling Psychology; Performing Arts; Psychology; Psychotherapy; Theater; Therapy
improvisation; theatrical improvisation; therapy; therapeutic practice

Recommended Citations

Citations

  • Betz, J. (2019). The Use of Improvisation in Therapeutic Practices [Undergraduate thesis, Kent State University]. OhioLINK Electronic Theses and Dissertations Center. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=ksuhonors1557312650223249

    APA Style (7th edition)

  • Betz, Jennifer. The Use of Improvisation in Therapeutic Practices . 2019. Kent State University, Undergraduate thesis. OhioLINK Electronic Theses and Dissertations Center, http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=ksuhonors1557312650223249.

    MLA Style (8th edition)

  • Betz, Jennifer. "The Use of Improvisation in Therapeutic Practices ." Undergraduate thesis, Kent State University, 2019. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=ksuhonors1557312650223249

    Chicago Manual of Style (17th edition)

ksuhonors1557312650223249
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© 2019, all rights reserved.
This open access ETD is published by Kent State University Honors College and OhioLINK.