Dramatherapy
Using storytelling, role play, movement, and performance to help people communicate, understand themselves, and heal, Dramatherapists use their passion and knowledge of performing arts and drama alongside psychotherapy to helping others.
Discover what it takes to become a registered Dramatherapist, approved postgraduate training routes, HCPC registration requirements, and key professional bodies to support your journey.
What is Dramatherapy?
Dramatherapy is a type of specialised psychotherapy that uses creative theatre techniques, such as role play, movement, storytelling, puppetry, masks, and improvisation, to help people express feelings, explore experiences, build self-awareness, and improve wellbeing.
It is suitable for people of all ages and backgrounds, and can support those facing emotional difficulties, developmental needs, trauma, mental health conditions, neurological challenges, or stress. Dramatherapists work across a wide range of settings, including the NHS, schools (mainstream and special education), prisons, private practice, and community services.
Registration & Training
To practice legally in the UK and to use protected title 'Dramatherapist', you must register with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). Registration requires completion of an approved Master’s-level postgraduate course in Dramatherapy or qualifying through an equivalent Level 7 apprenticeship.
Entry into these courses typically demands:
- An undergraduate degree; commonly in drama, creative therapies, psychology, nursing, occupational therapy, social work, or equivalent professional experience.
- Practical experience in drama and experience working (paid or voluntary) with individuals in educational, healthcare, or social care settings.
Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC)
For legal and registration requirements, HCPC is the official authority in the UK and holds a public register with the Professional Standards Authority (PSA).
Passing an HCPC-approved postgraduate qualification allows you to legally register as a Dramatherapist in the UK, enabling professional practice.
Standards of proficiency for arts therapists >
British Association of Dramatherapists (BADth)
The main professional body for Dramatherapists in the UK. Whether your training, qualified or just interested in professional development, you can join as a Student, Associate, Non-practising, or Full Member.
BADth offers accreditation and oversight of training standards, curriculum guidance, CPD events, conferences, newsletters, journals, insurance benefits, and networking support.
Find out more >
Level 7 Degree Apprenticeship
The Level 7 Art Therapist Apprenticeship (MA/MSc integrated) is a relatively new and exciting pathway to qualifying as an art therapist, and includes options in Music Therapy. It combines work-based learning with postgraduate-level study, leading to HCPC-approved professional
This route is currently offered by a limited number of training providers across the UK, so apprenticeship places are quite competitive and limited compared to traditional MA/MSc courses.
Find out more >
More resources
Regulated Professions
Find out more about the UK standards for PSA regulated professionals to help you navigate your career path.
Membership Bodies
There are many UK membership bodies that support and guide dramatherapists throughout their careers.
How-to guide
Find out what it takes to train, register, and become a qualified dramatherapist in our handy career guide.