Photo From http://www.colum.edu/Academics/DMTC/movement_pattern_analysis_consultant_certificate/

Since I am nearing the end of my first year as a student in Columbia’s Dance/Movement Therapy & Counseling MA program, I have begun to look into the other certifications that the Dance/Movement Therapy & Counseling Department offers.

What many may not know about is that, in addition to offering a 60-credit masters program in DMT&C, my department also offer three certification programs—one of which is the Movement Pattern Analysis Consultant Certificate (MPACC).

To be honest, when I had first started the program, I had no idea what the MPACC was or how it could be beneficial to my professional development.  Over the past few months, I have learned more about just what exactly MPACC is and how it can be useful in the development of professional skills.

You may be wondering how exactly movement pattern analysis (MPA) may be applicable?  MPA is used to help determine the decision-making styles of an individuals by studying different movement patterns.  Based on this information, a movement pattern analysis consultant can deduce whether or not an individual’s decision-making compliments the responsibilities of the job they are considering that individual for.

MPACC is also a valuable tool for companies in terms of management. The skills this certification can provide me with include the ability to make a movement profile for all members of a professional team.  This in turn can help create a cohesive group that is able to collaborate based on the strengths extenuated by their own personal movement profiles.

Today, Movement Pattern Analysis is used in over 400 organizations, some of which include American Express, Bank of America, Columbia College Chicago, General Electric Company, General Motors, and many more!  Susan Imus, the head of the Dance/Movement Therapy & Counseling department, also uses MPA as a managerial tool for overseeing the department!

Lastly, MPACC is a 12 month program that is held one weekend (Friday and Saturday) of every month so it would not interfere with my Dance/Movement Therapy and Counseling classes which are held during the week.

If you or someone you know is potentially interested in joining the MPACC program you can check out the program website for more details!  Applications are rolling admission through August!