About M
MA Registered Dance and Movement Psychotherapist
Bio - Qualifications - ADMPUK - AMT - Volunteering
About M Gallego
Originally from Los Angeles, My journey with movement began early through Street Hockey, Competitive Gymnastics, Dance, and Drumming, all of which helped me express and understand myself. Over the years, I gained experience in various dance styles, including Jazz, Hip Hop, Contemporary, Lyrical, Ballroom, Latin, and Social/Partnered dances. This led me to train as a Professional Ballroom Dance Instructor, where I competed with students and managed a Ballroom Dance Studio.
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Inspired by the therapeutic power of dance, I pursued a Master’s degree in Dance and Movement Psychotherapy in London. With over 300 hours of clinical work, I’ve spent more than three years supporting Neurodiverse and mental health communities in southwest London. Additionally, I developed a movement program for Neurodiverse children and young people in a SEN school, using dance to transform their lives.
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My goal is to bridge the therapeutic potential of Ballroom/Partner Dance with Dance Movement Psychotherapy, helping people reconnect through touch and movement after periods of isolation.​​​​​​​
Dance and Movement Psychotherapy
Associated with ADMPUK
M Gallego, MA, RDMP, is a registered Dance Movement Psychotherapist (ADMP UK) offering group therapy to schools, organizations, charities, and community centers. She believes expressive dance and movement can shift clients' perspectives on trauma through creative interventions.
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Dance Movement Psychotherapy (DMP) uses expressive movement to promote emotional, physical, and cognitive integration, supporting personal growth through both verbal and non-verbal communication. DMP is adaptable for individuals and groups across health, education, forensic, and community settings.
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With 20 years of drumming experience, M incorporates music and percussion to help clients release tension and trauma. Her background as a ballroom and Latin instructor further deepens her understanding of physical connection, integrating partner dance into therapy.
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Group sessions are available for hire by organizations and community centers.
Please note, this is not a private practice at this time. However, I invite you to check back soon for updates on private psychotherapeutic sessions.
Qualifications
Master of Arts with Distinction in Dance and Movement Psychotherapy
University of Roehampton, Roehampton, UK | 2019-2021
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Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies
Azusa Pacific University, Azusa, CA, USA | 2016-2018
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Associate of Arts in Behavioral Science and Humanities
Pasadena City College, Pasadena, CA, USA | 2009-2016
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Volunteering Experience
Step Change Studios – London, UK
Volunteer Dance Partner for Partially Sighted Ballroom classes and competitions
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University of Roehampton – London, UK
Dance and Movement Psychotherapist Trainee
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SEN school: Group and 1-1 sessions for young people with learning difficulties
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Community Drug and Recovery Center: Group and 1-1 sessions for adults with mental health needs​
Movement Works – London, UK
Volunteer observer in Autism Movement Therapy​
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City Internships – London, UK
Women's Talk Therapy Group and Social Media Intern for Café De Paris
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Free 2 B Me – Los Angeles, CA
Dance Company for individuals with Down Syndrome (Ballet, Contemporary)
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Down for Dance – Los Angeles, CA
Dance Company for individuals with Down Syndrome (Hip-Hop, Jazz, Contemporary)
Additional Qualifications:
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African Drumming and Drum Therapy
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Music Therapy
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Art and Play Therapy
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Autism Movement Therapy
CPD:
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Mental Health First Aid
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Enhanced DBS
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First Aid
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GDPR & Safe Guarding
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Level 3 Autism & Positive Psychology
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Group Trained
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Diversity Trained
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Project Management