ABSTRACT
This chapter presents an overview of a trauma- and culturally responsive dance/movement therapy treatment approach to engage individuals in treatment for substance abuse, asserting that the following are integral elements of the holding environment, foundational to the initial invitation, engagement, and relationship: (a) the presence of the therapist, (b) utilization of music as a relational and culturally responsive tool, (c) access to the aesthetics, and beauty in dance, and (d) a strengths-based, recovery model framework. A case vignette highlights engagement within a short-term treatment setting, followed by a toolbox for identifying elements of engagement within the session.
