Let's be honest, I'm kind of a nerd
I can still remember my mother stating as a child "video games will rot your brain away." I have to laugh now as I get paid to play video games with kids, how neat is that? Granted, video games in general can cause quite the controversial discussion, but I'm a firm believer that video games can be therapeutic and foster growth and change within a client. Majority of children are playing video games, and this provides the "buy in" needed to begin therapy. This is often an immediate connection between me and then client and often times makes therapy enjoyable due to our shared connection.
What does Video Game Therapy look like?
If your child is 8+, I offer Roblox & Minecraft as the platform to facilitate therapy. This becomes the playroom within therapy. We can play in-person together or virtually over a telehealth session making video games a perfect virtual option for therapy. We become friends on the platform and play the game the client has picked for 50min.
How does Video Game Therapy work?
Much like play therapy within my office, I am looking for themes to emerge within the play. For example, if a client is struggling with anger, I will see aggression come up in their play. By allowing the space for the play to unfold, the client heals through the play process. There are four stages within play therapy that I will watch a client go through until the final stage of mastery play. I will watch the play reduce in intensity and frequency and in turn "problems" resolve.
Video Game Therapy effective?
Using video games (virtual playroom) + play therapy (just looks different but feels the same) is just as effective if not more than traditional methods of therapy. Client's often look forward to therapy and having their own "world" to address their concerns and struggles. Plus, the added benefit of "fun" while playing reduces overall anxiety and pushback within the session.
Parent Concerns?
I love teaching parents about Roblox and Minecraft and discussing the usage of video games. Most parents are concerned about video game usage, and I'd love to share how they can be used in a therapeutic way with a child and/or parent. I also help parents set limits and promote mental wellbeing with the use of video games.
*Video game therapy is NOT just for children. I also offer video game therapy to players of all ages. Inquire today to learn more about Video Game Therapy!