Circle Play: A critical reappraisal of a dramatherapy method based on Leary’s Rose to support assertive communication and role repertoire in adults

This article is a critical reappraisal of the dramatherapy method Circle Play, first published by me in Dutch in 2013. Circle Play is a dramatherapy method based on the communication model Leary’s Rose to support adults with assertive communication and a more balanced role repertoire. I share the methodology in more detail, outlining how Emunah’s phases inform the introduction of different aspects of Leary’s Rose. A non-randomized experimental study showed that Circle Play leads to statistically significant improved assertive skills and decreased sub-assertive coping strategies in twelve clients, as well as a more balanced role repertoire. The article then introduces findings from interviews with dramatherapists who have since used and further developed Circle Play to strengthen the ideas in the method and explore further application of the work. New developments include adaptations to the method to effectively support new client groups, such as clients with trauma, medically unexplained symptoms and in couples therapy. Dramatherapists mention techniques such as doubling, mentalization and embodiment as helpful techniques to embed within Circle Play.