Gamer Therapy Groups

When Play Becomes a Path to Growth

For many kids, teens, and adults, gaming isn't just entertainment - it's a primary way they connect, problem-solve, regulate emotions, and build community. Gamer therapy groups intentionally use this familiar world as a bridge to meaningful emotional and social growth.

Rather than asking clients to step away from something they love, gamer therapy meets them where they are. 

What is Gamer Therapy?

Gamer therapy combines evidence-based counseling principles with structured, therapist-led gameplay. Sessions are designed around specific therapeutic goals such as emotional regulation, communication, confidence, teamwork, and healthy peer interaction.

Games are not chosen randomly. Each session is intentionally structured, monitored, and facilitated by a licensed therapist who helps participants reflect on what happens in the game and connect those experiences to real-life situations at school, work, home, and relationships.

Why Gaming Works in Therapy

Gaming naturally creates opportunities to practice important life skills:

• Managing frustration when things don't go as planned
• Communicating clearly under pressure
• Collaborating toward shared goals
• Recovering from mistakes
• Taking leadership or supporting others

These moments offer real-time insight into how individuals respond to stress, conflict, success, and teamwork - making them powerful opportunities for growth when guided by a therapist.

How Our Gamer Therapy Groups Are Structured

Our gamer therapy groups meet weekly on Sundays for one hour and are limited to six participants to ensure safety, connection, and individualized support. Groups are divided by age, including middle school, high school, college, and adult groups.

Each session includes:

• A brief check-in and goal-setting
• Guided gameplay using therapist-selected games
• Real-time coaching and support
• Reflection and discussion to connect in-game experiences to everyday life

We use a rotating selection of games such as Minecraft, Fortnite, Roblox (curated experiences), and Animal Crossing, chosen intentionally based on the group's developmental level and therapeutic goals. 

Who Gamer Therapy Is For

Gamer therapy can be especially helpful for individuals who:

• Struggle with social confidence or peer relationships
• Experience anxiety, stress, or emotional overwhelm
• Learn best through hands-on, experiential approaches
• Feel disconnected or misunderstood in traditional therapy settings

No prior gaming expertise is required - just a willingness to participate.

Beyond the Screen

While games are the tool, growth is the goal. Skills practice during gameplay are intentionally reinforced and applied to real-world situations, helping participants build confidence, emotional awareness, and healthier relationships beyond the screen. 

A Different Way to Connect

Gamer therapy offers a supportive, engaging alternative to traditional talk therapy - one that honors individuality, strengths, and interests while fostering meaningful change.

If you're curious about whether a gamer therapy group might be a good fit for you or your child, we'd love to connect.