The Method

Psychodrama was originally developed by Jakob Levy Moreno (1889–1974) as a form of group therapy at the beginning of the last century.
Today, it is a method that is classified in Austria as part of humanistic psychology, in which the client achieves healing or personal growth through a scene (acted out, staged, or narrated).

The method is not only used successfully in group settings, but also in individual and couple settings. The methods and techniques are also used in coaching and supervision.

Psychodramatic methods: Constellations, sculptures, scenic work 

Jacob Levi Moreno and psychotherapists after him, such as Virginia Satir, developed so-called sociometric methods, such as constellations and family sculptures, and also worked scenically. These methods can vividly clarify deeper layers of meaning in groups, or can also be used for individual orientation.

The main difference between psychodramatic constellations and other constellation approaches is that the client knows best "how it works". Therapist and client trust the process together instead of looking for solutions.

Psychodrama is scientifically based and has three structural theories: A modern developmental psychology, or role theory, a change theory and an encounter theory.

Encounter theory can be used to describe and experience the relationship structure of a scene and the therapeutic relationship. The therapeutic relationship is the central effective factor of the method.

Change theory works with concepts such as spontaneity and creativity.

Role theory, or developmental psychology, helps us understand the structure of the scene—when and how roles have developed.
Our sense of self consists of different roles—in personal relationships as well as in professional interactions. Problems arise when roles cannot be chosen in a way that is appropriate to the situation. These role deficits or role fixations trigger a negative sense of self. The psychodramatic goal is to increase role flexibility and, thereby, one’s ability to act effectively.