Psychodrama (JL Moreno)

- is a form of group psychotherapy developed by J L Moreno (from the 1920s

onwards).

-This therapy provides an opportunity to explore life situations from the

perspectives of the present, past and future.

-The psychodrama therapist will draw on the group’s energy and spontaneity to
explore the protagonist’s situation. This can include how past experiences have
influenced thoughts, feelings and behaviours in the present, which in turn
shapes the future.
-By working in this creative way, the significance and
meaning of events becomes clearer. Using imagination and
the support of the group, the past can be reviewed and
understood from a broader perspective.
 How does Psychodrama Help?

• Moreno described psychodrama as "the scientific exploration of truth

through dramatic method.”

• Using creativity combined with group dynamics and role theory, its aim is
to help clients gain a new perspective through better understanding of
their own roles in life.
• This approach offers clients a safe space to explore their past, present or
future. As clients gain a unique perspective, they are free to explore new
solutions to challenges they’re facing.
• Within a psychodrama session there will typically be a director, a stage
area and participants. The director (psychodrama therapist) will
facilitate the session and encourage participants to share how they
related to the session and what they learnt.
• Psychodrama identifies a protagonist with a specific issue. The
therapist works directly with the protagonist, maintaining them focus
on this problem throughout the psychodrama, while utilising group
energies and creativity
Psychodrama techniques
Sessions usually comprise of three phases, a warm-up
activity, the ‘action phase’ and then time for reflecting
and sharing. A session will normally focus on one
individual’s life situation with members of the group
taking on roles as and when needed.
While psychodrama therapists may differ in their specific methods,
the following techniques are often used:
Role reversal - The protagonist acts out the role of
someone other than themselves, someone important in
their life. This can improve empathy and help the
protagonist understand the other person’s role.
Doubling - A group member will replicate the behaviour
and actions of the protagonist, expressing out loud what
they believe the protagonist is thinking/feeling.
 Mirroring - The protagonist takes a step back while group
members act out the protagonist’s event. This can help
those feeling distanced from their feelings about the scene
gain a different perspective.
Soliloquy - The protagonist relates his/her inner thoughts
to the audience (other group members).
Once the action phase is finished, the sharing phase
begins. This is when the director shifts back into a
counsellor role, talking to the group about feelings that were
provoked during the session. This offers space for group
discussion and reflection.
What can psychodrama help with?
Most mental health concerns can be addressed using
psychodrama. The following are common examples:
depression
phobias
post-traumatic stress syndrome
eating disorders
self-harm
alcohol and drug abuse
relationship issues
family difficulties
Technique

Psychodrama works directly with the protagonist's story and uses

distancing techniques (story/ myth) when required.

Outcome
Psychodrama aims to have a resolution, or potential solution, by the
end of the session.
verse
Thank you
and
God bless