The Indian Association of Dance Movement Therapy (IADMT) defines DMT as "a psychotherapeutic method that uses movement and creative expression to further socio-emotional, cognitive, and somatic integration. This approach is based on the principle that the body and mind are integrated." It helps in self-expression to bring about a change in the total functioning of an individual. DMT is for individuals of all ages, gender, races, and ethnic backgrounds in individual, couples, family, and group therapy formats.

As an individual’s movement is seen as a form of communication, Dance Movement Therapists utilise this art form to help individuals or the group find a way to express their emotions and their experiences which helps in their own internal processes.

Dance Movement Therapy also provides a holistic and creative approach to healing and wellness. It asserts that the body and mind are interconnected wherein, changes in the body reflect changes in the mind and vice versa. DMT is primarily a sensory and kinaesthetic experience and recognises that all movements are unique. It is based on the presumption that:

• Movement is universal and the first form of communication
• Movements can be of various types, that is, functional, developmental, expressive, and communicative
• Movement may be used as an assessment tool and/or as a primary mode of intervention
• All movements have meaning and reflect the personality of the mover, and the creative process embodied in the use of free association in movement is inherently therapeutic