When words aren’t enough, experiential therapies like psychodrama can open new doors to healing. Rooted in theater and group process, psychodrama allows clients to explore past events, inner conflicts, or future goals through guided role-play, movement, and storytelling. It can be powerful, surprising, and deeply moving.

What Is Psychodrama?

Psychodrama is a form of group or individual therapy developed by psychiatrist Jacob L. Moreno in the early 20th century. It uses dramatic enactment to:

• Revisit significant life events

• Externalize inner conflicts or unspoken feelings

• Rehearse future conversations or decisions

• Develop empathy by seeing situations from another’s perspective

Through role-play, clients can take on different roles: themselves, another person in their life, a symbolic object, or even a part of their own psyche (e.g., their “inner critic” or “wounded child”). This process often leads to emotional release, new insights, and greater self-compassion.

How It Works

In a psychodrama session, your therapist may guide you through:

• The warm-up: Getting grounded and identifying a theme or scenario to explore

• The action: Stepping into roles to reenact scenes, express emotions, or imagine new possibilities

• The sharing: Reflecting on what was learned and integrating the experience

Psychodrama can be used in individual therapy, but it is especially powerful in group settings, where other participants can serve as role players or witnesses.

What Psychodrama Can Help With

Psychodrama is especially helpful for:

• Trauma and unresolved grief

• Identity and self-esteem issues

• Relationship challenges

• Role transitions (e.g., parenthood, career change)

• Shame, guilt, and emotional blockages

It’s a way to move beyond intellectual insight into embodied understanding—helping clients feel their truth and try on new ways of being.

Why We Use Psychodrama at Tripeak

For clients who feel stuck in talk therapy or who want to engage in healing in a more creative, embodied way, psychodrama can offer a transformational experience. It bypasses defenses, builds emotional expression, and fosters a sense of connection, both to self and others.

At Tripeak, we may use psychodrama alongside other modalities like CBT or Gestalt therapy.  We tailor each session to your needs and comfort level, always emphasizing safety, respect, and choice.

Ready to Learn More?

Curious about whether psychodrama might be a fit for you? Reach out to schedule a session or consultation. You don’t have to be an actor to benefit, just willing to step into the experience.

Contact Tripeak Behavioral Health in Albuquerque to get started.