Psychodrama — meaning “psyche in action” — helps us explore our inner and outer worlds with action. Although it is most well known as a non-traditional form of psychotherapy, the method is highly adaptable to education, theater, business, organizational and worship settings.

Through enactment, participants explore issues and concerns in a safe environment. The goal of psychodrama helps people discover their inner truth, express emotions freely and establish authentic interactions with others.

It was developed by Dr. J.L. Moreno, a European-born physician, starting in the 1920s and was further developed by his partner and collaborator Zerka Moreno. When Dr. Moreno died in 1974, Zerka continued to demonstrate and teach the model throughout the world.

Psychodrama is not drama therapy — which is a separate and distinct creative arts discipline. It is the true forerunner of the creative arts therapies as we know them today. It is also an effective way to build community, which is also a powerful healing force, and an important avenue to develop creativity and spontaneity in daily living. A number of clinicians, including Adam Blatner, M.D., have written thoughts on the place of the creative arts in psychotherapy.

Group leaders who use role play as part of their group activities or presentations are not necessarily using psychodrama although psychodrama theory is the root of modern role play.

Psychodramatists are certified on two levels by the Board of Examiners in Psychodrama, Sociometry and Group Psychotherapy after a rigorous process of training, supervision and written and demonstration examinations. One level is Certified Practitioner (CP), which signifies the ability to competently practice this action method; the other is Trainer, Educator and Practitioner (TEP), which signifies the ability to practice and teach the method and to provide training hours towards certification with the board. Another designation, Practitioner Applicant In Training (PAT), is permitted to offer training hours under the supervision of a master trainer.

For more information on certification information, click here.

For links on psychodrama and other action methods in the Midwest and around the world, click here.