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National Dance/Movement Therapy Advocacy Day

Join the movement and advocate for dance/movement therapy on National Dance/Movement Therapy Advocacy Day - let's promote healing through movement!

Sunday

June 2027

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEJune 13

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYHealth

SUBCATEGORYAlternative Health

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Get ready to move and groove on June 13 for National Dance/Movement Therapy Advocacy Day! This day is dedicated to raising awareness about the healing power of dance and movement therapy. It was first celebrated in 1982 and has since become an important event for therapists, clients, and supporters alike. Did you know that dance has been used as a form of therapy for centuries? From ancient civilizations to modern times, people have recognized its ability to promote physical, emotional, and mental well-being. So let's join together in celebrating this unique and impactful form of therapy!

TIMELINE

National Dance/Movement Therapy Advocacy Day Timeline

Dance Therapy Origins

Dance movement therapy began to gain recognition as a distinct therapeutic method during the 1940s by several key pioneers including Marian Chace.

ADTA Formation

The American Dance Therapy Association (ADTA) was established as an organization dedicated to the profession of dance/movement therapy.

Academic Recognition

Dance/movement therapy was recognized as an academic discipline, with formal programs and degrees offered in universities.

First Advocacy Day

Dance/movement therapy was officially celebrated as part of National Dance/Movement Therapy Advocacy Day for the first time.

Global Acknowledgement

Dance/movement therapy gained international recognition, with associations established in many parts of the world.

Official Resolutions

Numerous resolutions were passed across U.S. states officially recognizing dance/movement therapy as an effective method of treatment.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National Dance/Movement Therapy Advocacy Day

Organize a flash mob

Gather a group of dancers and plan a flash mob in a public space to raise awareness for dance/movement therapy. Get creative with your choreography and make sure to include information about the therapy in your performance.

HOST

Host a dance workshop

Invite a dance therapist to lead a workshop and introduce others to the benefits of dance/movement therapy. This is a great way to educate and engage people in the practice.

CREATE

Create social media campaign

Use social media to spread the word about dance/movement therapy. Share personal stories, research, and resources to educate others and advocate for the practice.

WRITE

Write to government officials

Write letters or emails to government officials to advocate for the recognition and funding of dance/movement therapy as a legitimate form of therapy. Share your personal experiences and the positive impact it has had on your life.

COLLABORATE

Collaborate with other advocacy groups

Team up with other organizations that support mental health and wellness to advocate for dance/movement therapy together. This can help amplify your message and reach a wider audience.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why We Love National Dance/Movement Therapy Advocacy Day

It brings together a community of advocates

On this special day, dance/movement therapists, clients, supporters, and other members of the community come together to advocate for the recognition and accessibility of dance/movement therapy. It's a powerful reminder that change can happen when we unite our voices for a common cause.

It raises awareness for an important form of therapy

National Dance/Movement Therapy Advocacy Day is a way to shine a spotlight on the benefits of dance/movement therapy and spread awareness about this valuable tool for mental, emotional, and physical well-being.

It highlights the power of movement in healing

Dance/movement therapy utilizes movement as a way to express and process emotions, providing a safe and effective outlet for individuals to work through their challenges. National Dance/Movement Therapy Advocacy Day celebrates the transformative potential of embodied movement.

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