Using Voice and Theatre in Therapy : The Practical Application of Voice Movement Therapy

Using Voice and Theatre in Therapy is a guide to how dramatic improvisation can be used in a therapeutic context to promote self-expression. Paul Newham demonstrates how voice, text and speech bring out aspects of character, personality, emotion and diversity of self-image which facilitate self-understanding. He shows how vocal identity derives initially from the theatre of family interaction, and how self-transformation through dramatisation can clarify and deepen a person's sense of connectedness to others.

He details the ways in which dramatic voicework can be used in therapeutic settings to help people with emotional difficulties, mental distress and behavioural problems. The book is illustrated with case examples taken from the author's direct experience of using the therapeutic techniques he describes. It will also inform the practice of non-clinical professionals working with groups to improve social interaction and communication.

This is the third of three volumes which provide practical information on the therapeutic use of vocal expression within psychotherapy, arts therapies and group process. The three books explore the ways in which singing and vocal sound-making can contribute to an artistically orientated psychotherapeutic process, and will be a source of inspiration for practitioners.

Paul Newham is a voice and movement therapist and voice therapy trainer. He is the Founding Director of the International Association for Voice Movement Therapy and directs the professional training course in voice movement therapy at the London Voice Centre.