Thania Acaron

Thania Acaron is a Lecturer in Arts, Health & Wellbeing at the University of South Wales, affiliated with the Faculty of Business and Creative Industries. She holds a PhD from the University of Aberdeen (2015) on dance's role in violence prevention and a Master's in Dance Education from New York University (2003). Her expertise spans dance movement psychotherapy, LGBTQ+ health advocacy, and embodied decision-making frameworks. She founded The Body Hotel CIC, a social enterprise delivering therapeutic interventions in arts, education, and healthcare sectors.

Academic Qualifications:

• PhD: Role of Dance in Violence Prevention, University of Aberdeen (2015)
• M.A.: Dance Education, New York University (2003)
• Certifications: Clinical Supervisor (UK R-DMP), Dance Movement Therapist (US BC-DMT)

Research Interests:

Her work focuses on culturally responsive therapeutic practices, particularly for LGBTQ+ communities, and integrates movement-based approaches to violence prevention, workplace wellbeing, and interdisciplinary arts. Her Body Questions methodology bridges decision-making theory with somatic practices.

Key Projects:

• Embodied Decision Making Through the Arts (2020–2025): Examines somatic strategies for professional and personal decision-making.
• The Body Hotel: Offers training programs and therapeutic services prioritizing marginalized communities.

Awards & Recognition:

• 2024 Diversity and Inclusion Awards (Wales)
• 2023 Wales Startup Awards Finalist
• 2017 Puerto Rico International Dance Festival Ambassador

Teaching & Mentorship:

Acarón leads courses on dance movement psychotherapy, physical theatre, and embodied self-care. She has trained over 500 professionals globally through her workshops on LGBTQ+ competencies and therapeutic mentorship for artists.