Amanda Rothman

Imagine a therapy session where storytelling, creative writing, and role-play become powerful tools for healing and self-discovery. This is the innovative approach of Amanda Rothman, MA, LCAT, RDT, a clinical drama therapist who brings the transformative power of theater to the realm of mental health.

Amanda's journey in drama therapy is as diverse as it is impressive. With a background spanning 12 years of studying and performing improvised theater, she brings a unique blend of creativity and clinical expertise to her practice. Her work extends beyond traditional therapy settings, having served as both a group and individual drama therapist in inpatient psychiatric departments and virtual therapy group practices. This varied experience allows her to adapt her methods to suit the needs of a wide range of clients, whether in person or online.

As a testament to her expertise, Amanda was awarded a Fulbright Scholarship to conduct Participatory Action Research in Sri Lanka. This research focused on creating additional support systems for mental health care providers, highlighting her commitment not only to client care but also to the wellbeing of her fellow practitioners. Her dedication to advancing the field is further evidenced by her recent publication in the peer-reviewed journal, the Drama Therapy Review.

Amanda's innovative approach extends into the corporate world as well. She facilitates drama-informed staff wellness workshops in partnership with HR departments of various private companies, demonstrating the versatility and broad applicability of drama therapy techniques. Additionally, she serves as adjunct faculty at NYU's Stern School of Business, where she teaches "Improvisation for Ethical Leadership" to MBA students, bridging the gap between theatrical techniques and business leadership.

In her clinical practice, Amanda emphasizes creating a warm and empowering framework that builds on each client's specific strengths. She understands that the term "Drama Therapy" might sound intimidating to some, but she assures potential clients that she always moves at their pace. Her approach complements traditional talk therapy, offering tools based in theater practices to help clients move through stuckness and create more freedom in their lives.

Amanda's commitment to ethical practice is evident in her dedication to maintaining a culturally humble and anti-racist clinical approach. As a cis-het white woman in the mental health field, she recognizes the importance of continuous learning and advocacy for community care and liberation. This awareness infuses her practice with a depth of understanding and respect for diverse experiences.

For those feeling overwhelmed, Amanda offers a compassionate reminder: "When it all feels like too much, we don't have to do it alone." Her practice stands as a testament to the power of creative approaches in therapy, offering a unique blend of drama therapy techniques, improvisational skills, and traditional therapeutic methods to support clients on their journey toward healing and self-discovery.