WHAT IS THERAPEUTIC GAMING?Progress through play
Your Role is a unique approach to therapy in the Roanoke Valley from Seeking Wellness Counseling. In group and individual sessions, we want to help students explore and overcome their challenges through the medium of games - video games and tabletop/role-playing games. Whether you’ve tried traditional therapy in the past or are new to it, Your Role is for young people who feel more comfortable talking during a few rounds of Fortnite or exploring a dungeon as a Half-Elf rogue. If this feels like a good fit for you, check out what we offer below.
HOW IS YOUR ROLE DIFFERENT?Next-level engagement
Traditional therapy isn’t for everyone. We get that. Therapeutic gaming lets you to work through your issues in a space that allows you to be comfortable, engaged and doing something you love - playing games. Make no mistake, this is a real, research-based methodology. We bring the same expertise and care to Your Role that we use in our traditional practice. The difference is that playing games may help you open up in ways that regular 1-on-1 or group sessions might not. Play can help lower the pressure some folks feel in a clinical setting, which can be especially helpful for young people.
WHAT ARE SESSIONS LIKE?Fun, focused on you
Your Role helps clients make progress through play. But what does that look like? Sometimes traditional therapy can be stressful for some people. When the “spotlight” is on them, they might find it hard to open up, or feel pressured to describe challenges in their life that they would rather not talk about. Your Role provides both group and individual sessions where you play video or tabletop games with a qualified therapist or social worker. They use what is happening in the game, and your reactions to it, to explore your issues. The staff members at Your Role are the same qualified professionals who work in our traditional practice, ensuring sessions stay focused on your progress.
PLANS & SERVICESGet in the game
Ready to play? Here’s what we’re currently offering (college students only):
In-Person Gaming: Shadow Dark
Collaborative tabletop role-playing game, Shadow Dark (similar to Dungeons & Dragons) provides opportunities for students to practice interpersonal and emotional skills in an engaging, structured environment. Participation limited to 12 students, divided into two alternating groups. Duration: Through the end of the Fall semester. Pre-registration required.
Therapeutic goals will include:
Identity exploration; relationship building; communication and teamwork; problem-solving; emotional awareness and regulation; distress tolerance; and flexibility and coping with setbacks.
Online Gaming: LEGO Fortnite
In LEGO Fortnite, participants collaboratively build, explore, and problem-solve in a shared virtual environment while engaging in guided therapeutic reflection. Participation limited to 12 students, divided into two alternating groups. Duration: Through the end of the Fall semester. Pre-registration required.
Therapeutic goals will include:
Creating a safe and collaborative environment; identity exploration and creative self-expression; building interpersonal connection and community; communication and shared decision-making; coping with challenges and setbacks; emotional regulation and resilience; and reflection on personal growth and future goals.
Looking for traditional therapy?
We’ve got you covered. Schedule your first appointment where you can share what’s going on for you, and we can explore how we can help.
We’re here for you.