Martine L’Ecuyer, M.A.

Creative Arts Therapist / Drama Therapist

NADTA, CCPA, AQTN

Martine L'Ecuyer, M.A. holds a Master's degree in Creative Arts Therapies specializing in Drama Therapy from Concordia University in Montreal (2017), a Bachelor's degree in Dramatic Art from École supérieure de théâtre de L'Université du Québec à Montréal (2015), as well as an Attestation of Collegial Studies in acting /comedy from École nationale de l’humour de Montréal (2008).

Since obtaining her Master's degree, Martine has been involved in arts intervention with children, adolescents and adults. She offers her services in French and English. She has worked in multiple organizations such as Vers l'Équilibre (adults and mental health), the Miriam Home and Services (adults and neurodevelopmental disorders and/or intellectual disabilities), the Foundation Papillon (children and physical disabilities and/or pervasive developmental disorders (PDD) and/or disorders under the autism spectrum (ASD) and/or attention deficit disorders with or without hyperactivity (ADD / ADHD). She also accompanied through creative arts methods, patients of the Institut Universitaire de Gériatrie de Montréal (elderly and Alzheimer and/or neurodegenerative diseases).

Martine has been part of the teaching faculty of École nationale de l’humour de Montréal for several years, where she has taught physical (stunt) and clown comedy to recreational class students. Also an actress and comedian, she has traveled across Québec as a comedian specializing in physical (stunt) and burlesque humor, appearing in numerous shows for young and old, and has appeared in several television shows.

What is drama therapy?

Drama therapy is an embodied practice that is active and experiential and it is for everyone across the lifespan. It is the intentional use of drama and/or theater processes (e.g.: play, embodiment, projection, role, story, metaphor, distance, performance, improvisation, puppets, masks, costumes, sandplay, creating rituals, etc.) to achieve therapeutic goals. It is a humanistic, creative and person-centered approach, allowing the exploration of self and the externalization of emotions by being "in action" and without necessarily having to speak. Indeed, drama therapy differs in this way from other forms of therapy, since in addition to using words, it also uses expressive means that can pass through the whole body: bodily movements, deep breathing and mindfulness exercises.

Drama therapy helps promote the externalization of emotions, strengthen self-esteem, develop social skills and improve the ability to be spontaneous and to adapt to changes. We can find creative and positive solutions, in order to regain a feeling of calm and serenity in our daily life and thus regain power over our actions. We do not have to be “good” at acting to benefit from drama therapy! Martine's therapeutic approach is eclectic and adapts to the specific needs of each individual.

When she works with children, in addition to using her expertise in drama therapy, humor and teaching, Martine uses a multidisciplinary approach including techniques inspired by "nondirective play therapy (child-centered play therapy)," those of "embodiment, projection and roles and neuro-dramatic play", as well as some theoretical concepts of neurobiology. Play is an essential aspect of early childhood brain development. Children express themselves fully and more directly through spontaneous, self-initiated play than they do verbally, because they are more comfortable with play than with speaking. Drama therapy sessions provide a space in which they can explore their concerns in a safe, kind and supporting environment.

When she works with adults, Martine uses in her sessions, projective techniques (images, storytelling, metaphors, miniature worlds, figurines, masks, costumes, sandplay for adults, etc.), various drama therapy techniques (role theory, playback theater, psychodrama, DvT, performance, etc.) and the creative potential of individuals and groups. Through drama, the depth and breadth of inner experience can be actively explored and interpersonal relationships skills can be enhanced. Clients can expand their repertoire of dramatic roles to find that their own life roles have been strengthened.

Martine is passionate about her work and her clients. Her clinical interests include: anxiety, stress, depression, self-esteem, self-confidence, anger management, bullying / harassment, violence and abuse, addictions, trauma, development of social skills, development of coping skills, life’s transitions, grief, loss, identity, sexual orientation, professional challenges, learning disabilities, ADHD, neurodevelopmental disorders, relationship difficulties (couple, friendships, family), parent-child relationships and family dynamics.

Martine is a professional member of the North American Drama Therapy Association (NADTA), the Canadian Counseling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA) and the Quebec Association of Natural Therapists (AQTN).

She is always happy to answer questions about Creative Arts Therapies and Drama Therapy.

For more information, she offers free 20-minute telephone consultations, by appointment.