American Dance Therapy Association
Overview
The American Dance Therapy Association (ADTA) is a professional organization dedicated to the profession of dance/movement therapy. Established in 1966, the ADTA promotes the use of dance as a therapeutic tool for individuals of all ages and abilities. The association provides standards of professional competence, and supports research and training in the field of dance therapy.
History
The ADTA was founded in 1966 by a group of dance therapists who had been meeting informally since the early 1960s. The founding members were pioneers in the field of dance therapy, and their work laid the foundation for the development of the profession. The ADTA was incorporated in the state of New York in 1966, and it has grown to become a national organization with members across the United States and around the world.
Mission and Goals
The mission of the ADTA is to establish and maintain high standards of professional education and competence in the field of dance/movement therapy. The association aims to support and encourage the growth and development of dance/movement therapy, and to promote the use of dance as a therapeutic tool for individuals of all ages and abilities.
Membership
Membership in the ADTA is open to individuals who are interested in the field of dance/movement therapy. The association offers several levels of membership, including professional, student, and associate memberships. Professional members are individuals who have completed a master's degree in dance/movement therapy or a related field, and who have met the association's requirements for professional competence.
Education and Training
The ADTA sets standards for education and training in the field of dance/movement therapy. The association accredits master's degree programs in dance/movement therapy, and it provides guidelines for the professional competence of dance/movement therapists. The ADTA also offers continuing education opportunities for its members, including workshops, conferences, and online learning resources.
Research and Publications
The ADTA supports research in the field of dance/movement therapy, and it publishes a peer-reviewed journal, the American Journal of Dance Therapy. The association also publishes a newsletter, and it maintains a comprehensive website with resources for professionals, students, and the general public.
Advocacy and Outreach
The ADTA advocates for the recognition and acceptance of dance/movement therapy as a valid form of therapeutic intervention. The association works to increase public awareness of the benefits of dance therapy, and it provides resources for individuals who are interested in learning more about the field.