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The British Association for Dramatherapists (BADth) is the professional organization for Dramatherapists in the U.K. It plays a major role in the continual development of dramatherapist as a professional discipline.

Since its inception in 1977, BADth has been advocating for the use of creative methods including drama, movement, and story-telling in special education and mental health settings. It also facilities training, research, and professional development in the emerging field at the time.

History
When BADth was first established, it was a small group of practitioners from diverse backgrounds. Over almost five decades, the organization has grown into a dynamic body of professionals.

BADth's advocacy work was instrumental in the approval of salary scale by the Whitehall Council in 1990, enabling dramatherapists to be employed in National Health Service (NHS) settings.

In the 1990s, BADth was accepted by the Council for Professions Supplementary to Medicine (CPSM). In 1998, dramatherapy finally became a State Registered discipline. Only those who are registered with the Health Professions Council (HPC) are qualified as dramatherapists.

Academic Journal
BADth also publishes a peer reviewed academic journal “Dramatherapy (DRT)” that covers theory, practice, and research, with contributors from both within the U.K. and internationally. With the aim to promote and examine the diversity of Dramatherapy, the journal also provides a platform for other arts-based practices in healthcare, including theater, psychotherapy, and performance. It also welcomes co-authored contributions that explore inter-disciplinary collaborations between other arts therapies.