Expressive Therapies Summit

ROOM 802

Beat the Odds® integrates activities from contemporary drum circles and group counseling to teach skills such as focus and listening, team building, leadership, expressing feelings, managing anger/stress, empathy, and gratitude.  UCLA research has shown that Beat the Odds® can significantly reduce a spectrum of behavior problems in children, such as withdrawn/depression, post-traumatic stress, anxiety, attention deficit/hyperactivity, oppositional defiance, and sluggish cognitive tempo.  This scripted program — co-developed by a licensed clinical social worker, drum circle facilitator, and public health educator — is easily adaptable to other populations and can be delivered by those without musical experience. Participants in this workshop will experience the activities in the program and learn about the research demonstrating their benefits.  Additional focus will be given to ways in which movement can be integrated into the program, as rhythm and movement go hand in hand.  Information will also be shared regarding the implementation of Beat the Odds® in various community settings and adaptation for adolescents and adults.