Dramatherapy intentionally applies creative techniques to support psychological change. This course introduces students to the practice through experiential learning, theoretical lectures & seminars.

This course will be of interest and benefit all those interested in the arts and those working in theatre, health, social care and education. Completion of the course will provide students with a good general introduction to Dramatherapy and a foundation on which to progress to possible further accredited training.

Dramatherapy is an established profession regulated by the Health and Care Professions Council, and Dramatherapists who’ve completed a master’s level training practise under a protected title. Treatment settings include psychiatry, adult and child psychotherapy, physical and learning disability services, forensic and other custodial settings, special and mainstream education, services for the elderly, palliative care and private practice.

Dramatherapy is concerned with the ways in which the dynamic and flexible application of creative techniques can contribute to beneficial psychological change.

The Introduction to Dramatherapy Short Course will introduce students to the practice of dramatherapy through experiential learning, theoretical lectures and seminars. The course will build awareness of the history and development of dramatherapy and introduce students to some of the key theories informing current practice. Reading materials (articles and reading list) will be provided.

This course will run entirely dependent upon required number of students.

Teaching, learning and assessment:
Experiential workshops will offer students the opportunity to encounter the various processes themselves in a group setting, sharing experiences whilst exploring key themes pertinent to dramatherapy practice. All creative materials and equipment will be provided for the workshops.

Key details:
Entry requirements: There are no formal entry requirements.

Professional Registration: This is a non-qualifying course and does not allow persons to practice as a ‘Dramatherapist’ or use this legally protected title. If you are interested in progressing to one of the UK’s professionally accredited training programmes, please visit the website of the British Association of Dramatherapists (BADth) at www.badth.org.uk.
Outcomes: Certificate of attendance
Delivery: At QMU Campus, Musselburgh . All weekends run 10am – 5pm.

You will be required to attend on the following dates:
1-2 November 2025
13-14 December 2025
24-25 January 2026
7-8 March 2026

Please see their website for full details including fees for 2025 entry.

For further information, please contact lpalmer@qmu.ac.uk (Lizzie Palmer) or visit https://www.qmu.ac.uk/study-here/short-courses/short-courses/introduction-to-dramatherapy-short-course/.