Dance Psychology
Professional dance uniquely demands excellence in both artistry and athleticism. The path includes high-levels of ongoing competition, physical exertion and early specialization. Dance psychology is a branch of dance medicine which focuses on enhancing the health, well-being, training, and performance of dancers through the application of medical, scientific, and educational methods and strategies. Dr. Rowan applies her interdisciplinary knowledge as a clinical psychologist and a former professional dancer to a variety of roles working with dancers, schools, companies, and medical professionals who treat dancers.
Coaching and Psychotherapy for Dancers
The dance world comes with its distinct cultural nuances. The dancer’s elite training experience is a time-urgent path with limited room for physical or mental error. The pursuit demands intensive investment and sacrifice. Pre-professional, professional, and retired dancers may seek Dr. Rowan’s mental skills coaching and psychotherapy to address the distinct occupational challenges of the art form or navigating career transition.
Parent Consultations
Dr. Rowan also offers guidance to parents of aspiring pre-professional and professional dancers. Parents sometimes seek a greater understanding of how to support their teen’s decision-making around whether to go to college or audition for ballet companies. Many parents of pre-professional dancers work with Dr. Rowan to address fears around their child leaving home earlier than expected and determine how best to navigate parenting from a distance while their child is at boarding school.
Education for Dance Organizations
Dr. Rowan offers education and direct training services to faculty, directorship, and administrative staff at dance organizations. Clients often seek tools to enhance the holistic development, wellbeing, and performances of their students and professionals. She provides education and training to faculty on how to support mental health issues present among their student body. Additionally, schools may enlist Dr. Rowan to educate their students on healthy thinking patterns, the mind-body connection, and behavioral strategies to support training advancement and optimal performance.
Supervision and Consultation to Medical Professionals Working With Dancers
Medical professionals often seek information, resources, and guidance to further their competence and specialization in treating professional and pre-professional dancers. Dr. Rowan provides education, consultation, and ongoing professional supervision to doctors, psychologists, social workers, dietitians, physical therapists, and other professionals working with dancers. Healthcare providers build confidence in working with dancers through a deepened understanding of the “dance world” and the distinct nuances and circumstances needed to connect with and properly assess the dancers who walk into their offices.
