Summary of Koch et al. (2019): Dance Movement Therapy and trauma

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The article by Sabine C. Koch and colleagues (2019) concerns a systematic review and meta-analysis of the effects of dance movement therapy (DMT) and other body-oriented movement interventions on psychological functioning, including trauma- and stress-related complaints. The study combines results from multiple studies to determine whether structured, rhythmic movement has a therapeutic effect on emotional regulation, body awareness, and psychological symptoms.

The authors conclude that body-oriented forms of movement—such as dance, rhythmic coordination, and expressive movement—can have a measurable positive effect on stress reduction, mood, and interoception (the ability to perceive bodily signals). In people with trauma and PTSD, these interventions appear to work primarily through bottom-up regulation: the body is engaged through rhythm, posture, and movement, allowing the autonomic nervous system to stabilize.

An important mechanism described is sensorimotor integration. Through repeated, mindful movements, motor, emotional, and cognitive processes are activated simultaneously. This can help reduce fragmentation—a core problem in trauma. Additionally, rhythm appears to have a regulatory effect on arousal and stress response, comparable to findings from research into breath regulation and co-regulation.

The meta-analysis shows that DMT can have significant effects on depressive symptoms, anxiety, and body awareness. Studies for PTSD populations are still limited, but the results point towards improved regulation and a reduction in dissociation.

Koch and colleagues emphasize that body-oriented interventions are particularly effective when integrated into a broader therapeutic context. They do not replace trauma-focused psychotherapy but can strengthen the physical component of recovery. The research thus supports the growing understanding that trauma must be processed not only cognitively, but also physically.