City counsel

ART THERAPY  |  PSYCHOTHERAPY  |  MUSIC THERAPY  |  DRAMA THERAPY  |  LAUGH THERAPY  |  COGNITIVE BEHAVIORAL THERAPY  |  DANCE/MOVEMENT THERAPY  |  JUNGIAN ANALYSIS

Drama therapy

Vanessa Pierce Rodriguez, LCAT, describes her practice as allowing you to “access thoughts and emotions in a physical, creative way”—especially for those who have gone through trauma and have an easier time exploring things in a less directive, nonverbal form. The approach includes playwriting, psychodramatic techniques (like restaging an experience and analyzing what went on), mask making, costumes and role-playing. “We identify which roles they play in their lives—for example, if someone is stuck playing the victim over and over again—that have become dysfunctional,” says Rodriguez of her private sessions. “Then we see what other roles might achieve more of a balance, or how the role can be played in a different way.”

Where to find it: While it won’t replicate the psychotherapeutic focus of drama therapy, doing acting-based activities like joining an improv group, taking a mask-making class or even just watching a play “can bring out interesting stuff for you to process on your own,” according to Rodriguez. “It’s about expanding your worldview, and understanding the experiences of others.” Try the four-session “Joy of Improv” intro class at the Peoples Improv Theater (154 W 29th St between Sixth and Seventh Aves, 212-563-7488. Starts Sat 26, $150) or, if your social anxiety is your issue, get in on an acting class at Acting Drama Therapy (225 West End Ave between 70th and 71st Sts, No. 67; 212-724-2299, speakeeezi.com. Free trial session Fridays 8–9:30pm), which focuses on learning to be more comfortable in group situations.