Alternative Training
The Alternative Training Program was created by the North American Drama Therapy Association (NADTA) to provide a means for individuals who are not pursuing a drama therapy graduate degree through university programs, to satisfy the educational requirements for the RDT. Alternative training permits individuals to work with a Board-Certified Trainer (BCT) and creatively design an individualized learning program that credits related work experience and training opportunities.
The Drama Therapy Institute of Los Angeles is unique in that it offers a complete Alternative Training program, including all required core classes and electives on weekends and evenings on a year-round basis. It is also unique in that new students typically start with a cohort of other students who become part of their core, support group. DTILA students can also receive course credit for classes taken at conferences or other settings. Internship placements are also available pending available openings. Students may receive supervision on site (by licensed mental health professional) or offsite by an RDT-BCT (preferred), RDT or qualified, licensed mental health professional. Students may join the monthly supervision group or receive individual supervision offered by DTILA.
What are the requirements and responsibilities?
The candidate must hold a graduate degree such as an MA, MFA, MS, MSW or doctoral level degree in the behavioral sciences or theater/drama. Students currently pursuing a Master’s degree may simultaneously enroll in the alternative training program. However, they must complete their master’s degree and required internship hours before completing their alternative training.
It is the trainee’s responsibility to select an RDT/BCT who will serve as the primary mentor/advisor in designing an individualized program of study that satisfies the core curriculum requirements. The RDT/BCT serves as a trainer and/or supervisor for an agreed-upon fee.
Prior course work, work experience and other credentials will be reviewed by the BCT Trainer/Adviser. Courses will be evaluated according to course content, not necessarily course title. Credit may be given and applied to satisfy program requirements.
An individual pursuing alternative training studies must sign a contract, which is then updated and signed annually by the BCT and filed with the NADTA office.
Each program of study will be designed in accordance with the needs of the individual and the standards of NADTA. There is a basic core curriculum in drama therapy and psychology for all drama therapy students. Psychology classes can be transferred from previous or ongoing college work. Elective classes are chosen based on the interests of the student.
How to apply:
Meet with the director of DTILA, who will provide an Alternative Training Contract which will be signed, and sent to the NADTA at office@nadta.org. Alternative Training students pay an initial registration fee to NADTA of $80. This fee also covers the first year of membership as an NADTA student. This membership needs to be renewed each year.
More information: NADTA ALTERNATIVE TRAINING MANUAL
