Dramatherapy online: Here, there, and Black everywhere. Issue 1 (December 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Mitchell, Taylor Ronnie George
• Is Part Of: Dramatherapy. Volume 42:Issue 1/3(2021)
• Page Start: 64
• Page End: 74
• Publication Date: 2021-12
• Subjects: Cyborgs -- dramatherapy and philosophy -- dramatherapy online -- identity -- posthumanism and technology -- remote dramatherapy -- simulacrum; Drama -- Therapeutic use -- Periodicals; 616.89152305
• DOI: 10.1177/02630672221121625
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0263-0672

Abstract

This article highlights the necessary narratives and voice of a Black male dramatherapist working with unaccompanied/separated children and adolescents accessing dramatherapy online as a viable extension of dramatherapy practice. It explores the metaphor of a cyborg in relation to the dramatherapist, examining how feelings of distance may be magnified through the screen, yet offer the opportunity to co-create new connections and relationships. Holding dramatherapy sessions online challenges boundaries and space-holding, as online therapy does not include a shared physical room or container in the same way as traditional place-based dramatherapy. Remote access to therapy is enabled by technology when access to shared physical spaces is compromised. This research uses a phenomenological and naturalist retrospective analysis of voice, language and agency and aims to cultivate a philosophical repertoire to conceptualise and identify themes present in my experience of online dramatherapy.