The Couch and the Stage: Integrating Words and Action in Psychotherapy

The widow of J.L. Moreno, a pioneer of psychodrama, introduces this book by noting that drama therapy helps bring about client change and wholeness. Landy (educational theatre and applied psychology, New York U.) overviews additional influences on his work including shamanism; psychoanalysts (especially Otto Rank and Sandor Ferenczi); Gestalt therapist Fritz Perls; and others who promoted action-oriented therapies. Drawing on role theory, case examples, and Shakespeare's plays, he discusses methods in fostering "developmental transformations," and summarizes aspects of drama therapies and assessment instruments useful for mental health professionals. Annotation c2007 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

Robert J. Landy, Ph.D., RDT/BCT, LCAT is Professor of Educational Theatre and Applied Psychology and Director of the Drama Therapy Program at New York University. A pioneer in the profession of Drama Therapy, he lectures and trains professionals internationally. As researcher and writer, Landy has published and produced numerous books, articles and plays in the fields of Drama, Drama Therapy, Musical Theatre and related topics. He has been featured in the media in the CBS-TV series 'Drama in Education,' the award-winning documentary film, 'Standing Tall,' and his own production, 'Three Approaches to Drama Therapy.' As a drama therapist, Landy has more than 30 years of clinical experience, having treated children and adults with a wide range of psychiatric, cognitive and adjustment problems. He has also worked in prisons, developing drama therapy programs within the New York State Department of Corrections.