“I understand more what works”: Evaluating an intervention developed to support dramatherapists in writing their first clinical case study

Authors Tobias Constien, Eleanor Keiller, Jane Bourne, Marc Willemsen, Ellen Foyn Bruun, Simone Klees, Susana Pendzik
Published in The Arts in Psychotherapy
Publication date 2026
Research groups Youth
Type Article

Summary

Despite increasing implementation, the field of dramatherapy continues to have a limited evidence-base. Although publications have steadily grown, contributions remain concentrated among a small group of researchers, while structural barriers alongside confidence- and skills-based barriers restrict practitioner engagement. Consequently, programs that aim to develop research capacity have emerged, including the EFD Case Study Project, from the European Federation of Dramatherapy (EFD), the *Dramatherapy Journal*, and the British Association of Dramatherapists’ research committee. The objectives of this project were to support practicing dramatherapists (*N* = 10) in sharing their experience, to diversify the voices active within dramatherapy research, and to advance the development of the field. This convergent mixed-methods study evaluated the initial iteration of the project in regard to its impact and perception by participating dramatherapists. To assess changes in research skills and perceptions of the intervention, the study employed adapted versions of the Perceived Research Competencies Scale and the Perceived Characteristics of Intervention Scale. Session satisfaction was measured using a self-developed questionnaire and post-intervention interviews were analysed qualitatively. Participant satisfaction was high (>71% workshops; >83% mentoring) and improvements in perceived research competencies were observed post-intervention (*β* =.70, SE = 0.20, *p* = .002) and maintained at four-month follow-up (*β* =.64, SE = 0.19, *p* = .004). Qualitative findings indicated a greater integration (“bridging”) of research and practice, enhanced research confidence and a strengthened professional role. Notwithstanding, fewer case studies were submitted for peer-review than originally intended. Continued efforts to support sustained practitioner engagement in research are recommended.

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Language English
Published in The Arts in Psychotherapy
Year and volume 101 Article: 102524
Key words dramatherapy, drama therapy, research engagement, research education, mixed methods, case studies, continuing education
Digital Object Identifier 10.1016/j.aip.2026.102524
Page range 1-10

Youth