Even voorstellen: ARQ IVP

Being a dancer demands a great deal—both physically and mentally. Many dancers begin their journey at a young age in a close-knit and high-pressure environment, where boundaries are constantly tested and sometimes even crossed. This can impact not only physical and mental health but also the development of one’s identity. In some cases, dancers may experience traumatic events. For those struggling with such issues, appropriate care is now available through ARQ IVP. We spoke with Liesbeth Renckens, clinical psychologist and head of care services at ARQ IVP—an organization that supports people after impactful, work-related experiences. What can ARQ IVP offer dancers? And what does the process look like?

“The challenges dancers face are similar to those in other high-pressure professions, but the context is unique. That’s why support from someone who understands the dynamics of the dance world is essential.”

A Career in Trauma Care

Liesbeth Renckens has years of experience in trauma treatment, having worked with people from a wide range of professions—from healthcare and law enforcement to sports, the judiciary, and now the dance world. She found her way into the field by chance, she says, but quickly felt deeply connected to the work. “Anyone can experience something deeply upsetting. That universality makes the work feel very close to me,” she explains. Her strength lies in staying connected with people while allowing them to own their journey. “The goal is to help people move forward on their own. The most rewarding outcome in my field is becoming unnecessary.”

Support for High-Risk Professions

ARQ IVP supports individuals exposed to stressful or traumatic events in their work. These often include first responders or athletes—but dancers also fall into this category. “In dance—as in sports and other high-performance fields—there’s a strong focus on ambition and competition. That can be healthy, but if you push yourself too far, it can lead to burnout,” says Liesbeth. “It’s important to recognize when you’re nearing your limit. We regularly see people who feel overwhelmed, struggle with sleep, or feel disconnected from themselves—without knowing exactly why.” ARQ IVP helps make sense of these feelings. Sometimes they’re tied to a specific traumatic event, but often they stem from prolonged stress, performance pressure, or an unsafe work environment. “The body and mind can go into survival mode—fight, flight, or freeze. It feels unsettling, but it’s a natural response to something that doesn’t feel right. We help people understand what’s going on and guide them toward recovery.”

Tailored Care for Dancers

Through a partnership between Dans Veilig and ARQ IVP, dancers now have access to therapists who truly understand their world. “The challenges dancers face are very similar to those we see in other demanding professions—performance pressure, loyalty, and blurred lines around what’s acceptable,” says Liesbeth. “But the context is unique. That’s why it’s essential to work with someone who understands the dynamics of the dance world.”

ARQ IVP has a nationwide network of experienced therapists. Thanks to this collaboration, there’s now a dedicated care pathway for dancers, making it easier and quicker to find help. “We want seeking help to feel like a first step toward healing—not another hurdle. That means offering the right support, including someone who understands what it’s like in a dance company or academy. We now have nearly 45 therapists across the country who are equipped to support dancers in the most effective way.”

From Expectations to Self-Discovery

Many dancers begin their training in their teens and continue developing personally through their early twenties. “When you grow up in the ‘bubble’ of the dance world, it can shape your sense of what’s normal, what’s acceptable, and where your boundaries lie. That can have a major impact on personal development,” explains Liesbeth. “If you feel stuck, therapy can offer space to explore who you are outside of dance—and what that means for you. That can be transformative, not just for your dance career, but for you as a person.”

Seek Help When You Need It

Liesbeth emphasizes the importance of self-care and recognizing your own limits: “My most important message to dancers struggling with their mental health is: seek help when you need it. Being able to recognize and acknowledge your struggles is key. Self-care and support from others play a vital role. If you feel stuck, it helps to know that help is out there. Often, the healing process begins the moment you admit that you’re struggling.”