Consultant: Drama Therapist

Home for Every Juvenile (Methle Methlak) recognizes the importance of addressing the unique psychological and emotional needs of incarcerated girls. Drama therapy has been proven as an effective tool for facilitating personal growth, emotional healing, and positive behavioral change. The selected Drama Therapist will play a pivotal role in guiding girls towards rehabilitation and successful reintegration into society.

Drama therapy in a prison setting with girls aims to promote emotional healing, personal growth, and rehabilitation by utilizing creative expression and dramatic techniques. Through this approach, incarcerated girls can explore their emotions, develop empathy and communication skills, build a positive self-identity, learn conflict resolution strategies, and cultivate coping mechanisms. The ultimate goal is to empower them with essential life skills, reduce recidivism, and prepare them for a successful reintegration into society.

Currently, Methle Methlak is implementing a “Drama for Reintegration”  Project for girls in conflict with the law at “Dahr El-Bashek Prison”, funded by the U.S.-Middle East Partnership Initiative (MEPI) under the supervision of World Learning.

The engagement is expected to span for five months starting September 2023 till January 2024, with one session per week. The schedule should be flexible to accommodate the needs of the prison and the participants.

Objectives:

The primary objectives of this engagement are as follows:

- To provide a safe and conducive environment for girls to express themselves, process emotions, and build self-awareness.

- To facilitate emotional healing, personal development, and improved coping mechanisms.

- To foster empathy, communication skills, conflict resolution abilities, and teamwork.

- To contribute to reducing recidivism rates by preparing girls for a successful reintegration into society.

Responsibilities:

The Drama Therapist will be responsible for:

- Designing and conducting drama therapy sessions tailored to the needs of incarcerated girls.

- Creating a supportive and nonjudgmental atmosphere that encourages participation and self-expression.

- Utilizing drama therapy techniques, role-play, improvisation, and creative activities to address emotional and psychological challenges.

- Assisting participants in exploring their emotions, building a positive self-identity, and enhancing interpersonal skills.

- Collaborating with prison staff and relevant stakeholders to ensure the therapy aligns with the overall rehabilitation goals.

- Providing regular reports and updates on session outcomes, participant progress, and any relevant insights.

- Adhering to strict confidentiality and ethical guidelines when working with incarcerated girls and handling sensitive information.

Qualifications:

The selected Drama Therapist should possess:

- A recognized qualification in drama therapy, psychology, counseling, or a related field.

- Demonstrated experience in conducting drama therapy sessions, preferably within correctional or similar settings.

- Strong understanding of trauma-informed care, cultural sensitivity, and the specific needs of incarcerated individuals.

- Excellent communication, interpersonal, and conflict resolution skills.