Rehearsals for Growth: Theater Improvisation for Psychotherapists

Utilizing exercises from improvisational theater, Rehearsals for Growth is a play-inducing, creativity-releasing, growth-enhancing method that can be employed within a broad range of psychotherapies. It offers personal growth and renewal for the therapist as well as techniques that help clients discover and experiment with different aspects of themselves and their relationships. The author begins by discussing how Rehearsals for Growth developed in the course of his work as a psychologist and goes on to illuminate the connection between theater and therapy. Then, through interviews with an actress and teacher, Gloria Maddox, a leading performance artist, David Shiner, and the founder of a major improvisational technique, Keith Johnstone, he shows how performing improvisation enriches our understanding of social behavior. A practical book, Rehearsals for Growth teaches the basic principles of improvisation (accepting offers, paying attention to others, advancing the action, supporting others) through the use of exercises and games that will enable players - therapists, clients, all others - to experience greater freedom of expression and a power based on cooperation, imagination, and insight. The book contains detailed descriptions and instruction for use of over 150 variations of games and exercises that are applicable to group, couples, family, and individual therapy; 14 case examples and numerous clinical vignettes; and a discussion of how Rehearsals for Growth compares to other therapeutic approaches and how its techniques can be integrated with several kinds of therapies. Beyond its utility, Rehearsals for Growth captures the alluring quality of improvising and offers a challengingencounter with the present moment. This book invites you to play, to explore, and to expand the possibilities of who you can be.