Most commonly asked questions:
What are Action Methods?
Action Methods refer to forms of experiential learning derived from psychodrama, experiential and expressive arts therapies, engaging the right side of the brain as well as the left side. Powerful outcomes can result from single well-executed session.
Psychodrama is a form of psychotherapy developed by Dr. J.L. and Zerka Moreno that uses acting to facilitate problem solving. The client, called the protagonist, puts his/her truth into action with the assistance of the therapist, called the director, and other participants, called auxiliaries.
Does this happen in a theatre?
Originally, it did. Today, it may happen in any safe, private space mutually agreed upon by the director and protagonist.
How can this help beyond talking about things?
Recent neurobiological research shows that modalities like psychodrama which engage both sides of the brain are most effective. To paraphrase Dr. Bessel van der Kolk, people need to move beyond talk into action:
- Integration of Mindbodyheartspirit
- Gain insight, express feelings in a safe environment
- Heal emotional wounds from trauma, loss, eating disorders, addictions
- Resolve interpersonal conflicts
- Discover and build strengths and skills
- Release potential for creativity
- Transform old patterns of living into positive choices
- Expand the possibilities of a purposeful life
- Let go of old roles that are no longer useful, and develop new, healthier ones
- Practice more effective ways of communicating
- Experience the life–changing power of this safe, expressive, experiential modality of healing heartwounds
What is a Private Psychodrama?
“ Whether or not one is familiar with psychodrama, a private experience of this form of inner work offers a powerful personal growth modality. With the help of the director, the individual (who is called the “protagonist”) establishes a contract for the work to be addressed during the psychodrama (usually 3-4 hours). One or more experienced assistants (called “auxiliaries”) will most likely be available to take necessary roles not being played by the protagonist. The protagonist needs to have in mind and heart awareness of the subject to be explored. The director of the psychodrama will take care of everything else.
With Linda as my director, I have worked on a series of private psychodramas over the past year. It is not possible to overestimate the growth I have experienced as the inevitable outcome of each undertaking. For me, the ongoing effects of each deep intrapsychic episode tend to manifest over time. Since I started my private psychodramas, I am different as I live my life from day to day. I realize that my psychodramatic work has synergized with and potentiated all that I do to take care of myself in the here-and-now, and all that I do to progress toward self-realization.
In particular psychodramas, I have faced betrayals, self-doubts, relationships with family members, and my creativity. Because I have worked through an ongoing series of private psychodramas, each one has built upon those before. Although an “ah-ha!” moment – – or many – – is not unusual during the drama itself, I have come to treasure the long-term effects of the psychodramatic work that I slowly discern over weeks and months. I have changed patterns of behavior entrenched for years. Always my work has been intense, sometimes it has made me laugh, sometimes cry, but always psychodrama has helped me to experience who I am on deeper and deeper levels.
As I cannot overestimate the growth I have experienced as a result of my psychodramatic work, likewise I cannot overestimate the expert leadership of Linda through all that I have encountered. First and foremost Linda has unfailingly maintained a completely safe psychodramatic space in which the work takes place. And she has shaped each drama masterfully: Linda assists me as I begin the work, she facilitates my entry into the deep work, she helps me to emerge from the deep work, and she makes sure I am ready to re-enter daily life. Linda does all of this so seamlessly that I am often surprised at the smoothness of the transition from part to part of each drama.
My private psychodramas with Linda as my director have become a major way that I help myself to become the best person that I can be. I hope to continue to explore what needs discernment through more private psychodramas with Linda.”
~ E. S., Maryland, Private Psychodrama Client
What about my counselor / psychotherapist?
The director works closely with your individual therapist before and after a private drama, group experience or workshop, and he/she may attend and/or participate in the private drama. (You will need to sign a form to authorize this.)
What if I need more than one session?
Respectful pacing is fundamental to this work. A series of private sessions may be scheduled if needed; or you may participate in on-going groups or workshops.
What about fees?
Payment for a private psychodrama is made prior to the day of the drama by cash or check. Insurance and credit cards not accepted. The protagonist pays the director, auxiliaries, and space rental costs. Director’s fee is $200/hour plus travel expenses (if any). Fees for groups and workshops vary.