Setting the stage

Neuro-Dramatic-Play is an extraordinary instrument that can guide and offer support especially for children dealing with trauma, loss, neglect or abuse. This developmental paradigm was created by Dr. Sue Jennings, an important pioneer of Dramatherapy worldwide.
NDP is an attachment based intervention that focuses on the early playful relationship between mother and unborn child and mother and newborn child. Through play and drama, clients can experience a powerful combination of security, trust and ritual, with exploration, risk taking, stimulation. Ritual and Risk are the dual components of early physical play and the balance beteewen them is essential in the healthy development of the child.
By using NDP we can give our clients the opportunity to explore the world in a safe way, in the therapeutic circle so they can re-connect with their strengths, resources and re-own their body.
During this workshop we will explore the three stages of NDP: Sensory Play-Rhytmic Play-Dramatic Play and their impact on the development of trust, independence, resilience, healthy attachment and sense of security in our clients.
We will also touch upon how neuroscience plays an integral role within NDP.
Participants will also experience how to work with a range of NDP exercises and materials including creative play using the five senses; messy play, working with water, foam, songs, rhythm, storytelling and dramatic playing.
Also in this exciting workshop two assessment models for NDP will be shared: dramatic role stages and the story-making model developed by international dramatherapists including Alida Gersie and Mooli Lahad.
This workshop will be a safe yet powerful experience in how to help clients heal attachment issues that may have been broken through trauma with the primary care giver and assist in the development of healthier future relationships towards both the self and others.
Irina Calota and Christian Dixon