Ōtautahi Christchurch Multi-Level Psychodrama Training 2026
The Ōtautahi Christchurch multi-level training in 2026 involves participating in a year-long programme consisting of experiential workshops, reading, writing, a peer practice group and supervision.
The training will cover all the psychodrama specialties of psychodrama, role training, sociodrama and sociometry. As group members, you will have the opportunity to learn the psychodrama method while exploring issues such as social and personal relationships, your families of origin, work issues and finding your creative potential. We will build a cohesive working group in a supportive, positive environment. The purpose of the teaching is to develop greater flexibility in functioning, a greater perceptiveness and a wider range of functioning in the here-and-now situation. The training will introduce you to the core elements of the psychodrama method and then strengthen your abilities as directors, auxiliaries and group members. Trainees are encouraged to write short papers in areas of interest applicable to their work. You can expect to stretch yourselves and to identify and get involved with the perceptions, and values, of people who challenge you, especially in your professional capacity.
Psychodrama methods are effective, empowering, and fun. Psychodrama was created early in the twentieth century by J. L. Moreno. It has been continually evolving and developed since then as a method that emphasises action, rather than talk – because people learn through action and interaction with others. Since its inception, psychodrama has had a significant impact on psychotherapy, group psychotherapy and professional training. Psychodrama has a strong theoretical foundation and philosophy and uses many techniques aimed at deepening emotional expression, building cognitive insights and developing roles.
*2026 enrolments will open on 1st December 2025*

Dates
- 27 February – 1 March. Spontaneity Training. Simon Gurnsey, Maria Snegirev. (15 hrs).
- 10 – 12 April. Topic to be confirmed. Bev Hosking, Maria Snegirev. (15 hrs).
- 26 – 28 June. The Director as Producer. Simon Gurnsey. (15 hrs).
- 25 – 26 July. Doubling, Mirroring, Role Theory. Simon Gurnsey. (10 hrs).
- 10 – 11 October. Psychodrama as group-psychotherapy. Paul Baakman, Judith McDonald. Venue: Village Health, 30 Lincoln Road, Ōtautahi
- 6 – 8 November. Production and Supervised Practice. Simon Gurnsey, Maria Snegirev. (15 hrs)
- 6 November. Trainee Review Interviews.
Times
15 hr weekends
Friday: 6.30 – 9:00 PM.
Saturday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Sunday: 9:00 AM – 3:30 PM
10 hr weekends
Saturday: 9.00 AM – 3:00 PM
Sunday: 9.00 AM – 3:00 PM
Enquiries
Venue
START, 18 Queenswood Gardens, Ōtautahi Christchurch.
Except for 10 – 11 October: Village Health, 30 Lincoln Road, Ōtautahi