What is TTRPG Therapy?

Tabletop roleplaying games (TTRPGs) are interactive games in which a group of people talk, solve puzzles, and fight their way through a world created by a Game Master (GM). When this becomes therapeutic, a therapist can lead the game and work on traditional therapy goals through the lens of playing. Drawing heavily from various theories of therapy and the working knowledge of a trained therapeutic GM, game and group therapy meld together in a collaborative endeavor to overcome struggles that might be challenging for some to address in typical talk therapy. 

This is a growing approach to nontraditional means of reaching typical treatment goals. Groups for anxiety, for example, would drop clients in situations that safely expose and de-escalate emotions in a fictional environment with real world applications. Games geared towards coping skills and stress reduction have built-in mechanics to keep a character in top shape for every adventure.

In general, TTRPG experiences can give insight into personal choices and self-exploration, but a therapeutic game takes that idea, turns up the focus on introspection and action, and makes it a creative vessel for therapy to take place. If talk therapy has been difficult for you in the past; if you’re looking for something to supplement your current mental health improvement; if there is fear about starting traditional therapy, this could be a good place to start!

Why is TTRPG therapy good for Neurodivergent people?

People with ADHD, Autism, and other neurodivergent identities can struggle to define what their real-life challenges are in a traditional setting, and most benefit from a supportive community of like-minded people. TTRPG therapy groups are a safe, inviting, exciting and fun way to invest in bettering your mental health and improving your social skills. We as neurodivergent people also often learn best by seeing and doing, and therapy doesn’t get more hands-on than in TTRPG!

What kinds of groups are available?

-Anxiety group

10-weeks

Start date TBD after group limit is reached

How can this help my anxiety? Acting out scenarios that could have a real-life analog can be a safe form of exposure therapy. The challenge to your character is also a challenge to you as a client. You’ll be tested with tough decisions, impending threats, and battles that will help simulate anxiety-inducing situations and teach you how to navigate them with success. Players and characters also have the support of the other clients participating in the game, creating a feeling of security and a chance to learn from others’ examples.

-Coping skills group

10-weeks

Start date TBD after group limit is reached

What coping skills can I get from a fictional environment? In this game, your decisions affect your character’s well being. Routines, behaviors, and attention to self-care are all integral to having a successful game. In life, as in the game, you benefit from taking stock of your needs and acting accordingly to get those met. Additionally, actions always have consequences, which could turn out to be beneficial or have a detrimental effect. Acting out how to address consequences in-game is a safer outlet for working on how the real you takes on life’s consequences.

How do I get started?

Use the button below go to our contact page, and reach out to us to schedule your initial session with our GM Therapist, Hanna Sherwood, MSED, LPCC-S (They/Them)

*An initial session must be completed no later than 3 days before the group start