Association for Dance Movement Therapy UK

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FAQ

How do I know if DMP is a career I would like to pursue?

ADMP and some of the training institutions offer Foundation Courses and Introductory Workshops in DMP. Please refer to the workshops and training and workshop sections.

Can you give me information about training in DMP?

DMP training is a postgraduate training at Masters Level. There are currently five trainings in the UK Goldsmiths University, Roehampton University, University of Derby, Queen Margaret University and Dance Voice Therapy Centre
On completion of these trainings ADMP UK can offer the successful student professional membership to practice as a DMP.
For further information please look at the training section

Am I able to work as a DMP in the UK if I have been trained as a DMP in another country?

At present, ADMP UK does offer automatic professional registration to DMPs who have not completed one of the British accredited courses.
However, you will need to apply to ADMP UK to ascertain that your training and qualifications meet the criteria to practice in the UK.

As the trainings in DMP are at postgraduate level you should have an undergraduate degree preferably in psychology, dance or a related field Alternatively there are foundation courses in Dance Movement Psychotherapy available at several institutions
However, if you do not have an undergraduate degree, then relevant work experience would be necessary in dance and the caring professions.
Please contact the universities who run the training courses to find out exactly what their requirements are for entry to their courses. For further information, look at the training section

While excellence in any particular dance technique is not necessary, applicants will need to have a good understanding and aptitude of dance and movement and have attended a range of classes over a period of two years which will afford insights into dance forms, rhythms, patterns, and experience.
You will also need to maintain your dance/movement skills throughout the length of your postgraduate course and beyond in order to have a practical resource from which your therapeutic practice can develop.

Most DMPs work within the statutory services (health, education, prisons, social services) and/or in private practice. This work is often on a sessional basis, although sometimes part and full time contracted jobs also become available.
Hours worked will depend on the employer. Within the NHS the work is mainly nine to five, but with private practice the hours can be more varied to fit around both the client and practitioner and could involve weekends and evenings.
Opportunities exist for part-time and portfolio working, for example some DMPs may divide their working time between the NHS, private practice and teaching, and many DMPs combine DMP practice with other types of related work.
Career breaks are possible but it is vital to keep up to date with developments in the profession through attending courses and maintaining established networks.
Work can be gained in several ways: by responding to advertised jobs; by generating work through a range of activities including networking; DMPs working in private practice may take referrals from other professionals or organisations
Travel within a working day is frequent. Some DMPs work for several employers and may travel between them during the week.
In addition travel may also be necessary to attend residential courses, seminars and workshops for Continuing Professional Development (CPD). CPD is an essential element of continued professional registration with ADMP

What are the salaries like?

Salaries vary according to expertise and experience
Within the National Health Service (NHS) DMPs salaries are usually covered by the Agenda for Change Pay Scale consisting of nine pay bands. Typical salaries for NHS art therapist entry level posts (band 6) are: £25,528 -£34,189, rising to £46,000 for principal DMPs
Salary levels outside the NHS can vary depending on the employer and whether working part time and/or self-employed.
Payment for sessional work varies depending on the employer, as well as the experience and seniority of the DMP. The range can be between twenty five and sixty pounds per hour. A session is expected to last for two hours which includes preparation, the session and note taking. Usually the DMPs works in each setting on a weekly basis, they may visit several settings during a working week.

It is advisable to make a personal application to a therapist listed in the Professional Register of DMPs register (See Find a Therapist / Find a Supervisor) who is working in one of the statutory services or who has access to a range of client populations and clinical experience
During their training students have to complete clinical placements and this may be alongside qualified DMPs.
In addition, ADMP UK offers workshops which focus on specific DMP issues that may arise within DMP, this is an excellent way to gain insight into DMP experience.) Please refer to the workshops page.

Personal therapy should be undertaken with a DMP who is registered as a professional member of ADMP and is on The Register of Private Practitioners.

Clinical supervision should be undertaken with a DMP who is registered as a professional member of ADMP and is on The Register of Supervisors