Therapeutically Applied Role-Playing Games: The Game to Grow Method

Therapeutically Applied Role-Playing Games provides a comprehensive approach to implementing therapeutically applied role-playing game (TA-RPG) groups for mental health practitioners.

When facilitated by a trained professional, TA-RPGs are a powerful tool for insight, growth, and change for individuals and communities. The Game to Grow Method of Therapeutically Applied Role-Playing Games is a transdiagnostic, transtheoretical, group intervention developed over a decade of practice using Dungeons & Dragons and other popular tabletop role-playing game systems, as well as leveraging therapeutic factors from acceptance and commitment therapy, marriage and family therapy, drama therapy, and interpersonal process groups. TA-RPGs are conceptualized as a gaming system layered on top of established intervention techniques. They can accommodate a multitude of game systems and align with theoretical mechanisms for change found across therapeutic orientations.

This work serves as a comprehensive training manual for TA-RPGs, providing a valuable resource for mental health professionals interested in incorporating TA-RPGs into their practice.

Elizabeth D. Kilmer, PhD, is a clinical psychologist with ADHD and the Director of Education and training with Game to Grow. Her work focuses on the use of applied games with diverse populations.

Adam D. Davis, MAEd, is a co-founder and co-executive director of Game to Grow. His career has focused on using innovative ways to help people learn, connect, and grow.

Jared N. Kilmer, PhD, is an autistic clinical psychologist and the Director of Counseling Services of Game to Grow. His career focuses on the utilization of TA-RPGs among military veteran and neurodiverse children and adolescents.

Adam R. Johns, MA, LMFT, is a co-founder and co-executive director of Game to Grow. He has dedicated his career to the improved understanding of the ways in which games can positively impact our lives.