Trauma-informed dance/movement and expressive arts methods mental health professionals: a pilot study

Abstract

This pilot study examined the impact of a trauma-informed expressive arts-based intervention, incorporating elements from dance/movement therapy (DMT), on secondary traumatic stress, interoceptive awareness, and psychological resilience among mental health professionals in Turkey. Conducted between January 21 and February 25, 2024, the study involved 18 participants (M = 28.89, SD = 2.92) randomly assigned to either a six-week intervention or control group. Assessments were conducted at baseline, post-intervention, and one-month follow-up using validated psychological measures. Results showed a significant reduction in secondary traumatic stress in the intervention group at both post-intervention and follow-up. However, no significant changes were observed in interoceptive awareness or resilience. The intervention included limited DMT-inspired activities, such as body-oriented breathing and movement, but focused mainly on intermodal creative arts methods. This is the first known study to implement a trauma-informed expressive arts model with a Turkish sample of mental health professionals.