Apply to the Drama Therapy (MA) Program
Master of Arts, Counseling Psychology
"My time in the Drama Therapy Program at CIIS was pivotal and life-changing, both in allowing me to build concrete skills as a clinician and drama therapist, as well as transforming my sense of self. The coursework was powerful, challenging, growth-enhancing.
"The program has given me a foundation of great clinical depth coupled with crucial skills in group leadership, creative arts, and nonverbal processes. During my interview for the highly competitive Clinical Psychology Program at Columbia University, I was again reminded of the jewels I received from the Drama Therapy program."
-Shefali Tsabary, MA (1996), PhD
About the Program
This concentration is one of only two master's-level programs accredited in the field nationwide. Small and highly selective, our program is distinguished by our international reputation and focus on group work, which is in high demand professionally.
The curriculum encompasses clinical training with individual and small-group supervision, an Integrative Seminar and a final project-written, performed live or videotaped. CIIS' student troupe also applies drama therapy techniques in "Theatre for Change," whose performances aim to raise consciousness about diversity.
Our graduates are prepared to sit for the Marriage and Family Therapy license and work with all age groups in private practice as well as in schools and psychiatric services. Many Bay Area facilities have integrated drama therapy as a key modality.
Faculty Credentials
Renée Emunah, author, Current Approaches to Drama Therapy
F. Antonio Ramirez-Hernandez, founder, CECEVIM-method for working with Latino men who abuse their partners
Gary Raucher, vice-president, National Association for Drama Therapists
Diversity
We encourage and embrace diversity in our program, and place a high value on having students from a variety of racial and cultural backgrounds; other representations of diversity (including age range) are also important to us. We look at each applicant holistically, and if you feel passionate about this field, we welcome your application.
Applicants must have a background in drama/theater and a minimum of two undergraduate psychology courses. Volunteer or paid work experience in human services is strongly recommended.
Admission Requirements
We seek (and seem to attract) creative, motivated, mature students who have already demonstrated a strong interest in the integration of theater and therapy.
Integrity, introspection, and dedication are all essential attributes. Our students come to the program from around the world. Most have a strong background in drama, some coursework in psychology, and a commitment to human service.
Admission is for the Fall semester only. Application to the program also requires the following:
Application for Admission
Non-refundable $65 Application Fee
Degree Requirement: An undergraduate degree (BA, BS, or the equivalent) from an accredited college or university.
Academic Prerequisites: A minimum of two undergraduate psychology courses from an accredited college or university.
Transcripts: Official transcripts from all accredited academic institutions attended within the United States. Transcripts must arrive in their official, sealed envelopes.
Autobiographical Statement: A four-to-six page (typed, double-spaced) introspective autobiographical statement discussing your values, emotional and spiritual insights, aspirations, and life experiences that have led to your decision to apply.
Goal Statement: A one-page (typed, double-spaced) statement of your educational and professional objectives.
Two Letters of Recommendation: Letters of recommendation will be accepted from academic advisors, professors, professional supervisors, or someone able to attest to your ability to undertake the work required for your program. Recommenders should use standard business format and include full contact information-name, email, phone number, and mailing address.
Resume/Outline: An outline indicating applicant's background in theater, psychology, and human services work, or any creative arts therapy experiences.
Individual and group interviews by invitation from the admissions committee.
For International students there are additional requirements. Please see the International Student page for additional information.
For more information on applying please visit Applying to CIIS.
If you have any additional questions about admissions please contact:
Shawna Holbrook
415-575-6153
sholbrook@ciis.edu
