Scoping review: The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the practice of drama-based therapists

The COVID-19 pandemic significantly disrupted traditional drama therapy and psychodrama practices, prompting an urgent shift to online formats. This scoping review aims to map the existing evidence on the provision of tele-drama therapy and tele-psychodrama between 2020 and 2025, with a focus on the challenges, benefits, and future implications of this transition. This study adhered to the JBI methodology for scoping reviews, with a comprehensive search across multiple bibliographic databases and grey literature sources. Two reviewers independently conducted the screening and data extraction processes. Of the 2,491 records identified, 89 studies met the inclusion criteria, representing diverse populations, therapeutic approaches, and global demographic contexts. The findings highlight both the limitations of digital delivery—particularly regarding embodiment and ethical concerns—and its potential to increase accessibility, foster innovation, and promote client inclusion. Rather than serving merely as a temporary solution, tele-based modalities are emerging as distinct subdisciplines. This evolution necessitates ongoing research, methodological development, and professional training to facilitate their sustainable integration into therapeutic practice.