What, video games and tabletop games can be therapuetic? – Why, yes they can!
I’ve held the belief that video games and tabletop games are versions of adult play therapy and have the ability to connect with people on deeper levels than “traditional” talk therapy for some. Every person has their own way of eating yogurt, and incorporating gaming into treatment is another medium in which others may “eat their yogurt” in whatever way they prefer. Games provide spaces in which an individual may project their inner world onto the video game, tabletop game, and card game. This allows for an individual to explore their inner world and the world around them in a safe manner.
“Research has shown that video games can be used to treat conditions such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, and addiction. One of the main benefits of video games in therapy is that they can provide a sense of engagement and immersion that traditional therapy methods may lack.”
Bocci, F., Ferrari, A., & Sarini, M. (2023). Putting the Gaming Experience at the Center of the Therapy—The Video Game Therapy® Approach. Healthcare, 11(12), 1767. https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare11121767
I grew up with gaming, and I recall all of the moments throughout my life in which a video game and tabletop game had a porfound impact in my life. I’m big on the narrative, the story that serves as the backbone of the video game. In this, people may gravitate to a story or narrtive that aligns with their ideals, values, and principles within their inner world, or to explore or experience others within the safety of a game.
Need more information about the credibility of video game therapy and tabletop game therapy? There are numerous research articles that have been published that speak to the therapeutic benefit of using video games and tabletop games in treatment.
Some important takeaways:
- Engagement: Video games are designed to be engaging and immersive, which can make them effective at keeping individuals focused and motivated during therapy sessions.
- Interactivity: Video games are interactive, allowing individuals to actively participate in therapy. This can be especially beneficial for individuals with difficulty in verbalizing their thoughts and feelings.
- Visual and auditory feedback: Video games can provide visual and auditory feedback, which can be used to reinforce positive behaviors and provide instant feedback on progress.
- Customization: Video games can be customized to suit the specific needs and goals of the individual. This can include tailoring the difficulty level, the type of game, and the session length.
- Variety: Video games offer a wide range of options, from action games to puzzles and simulations, which can help individuals find a type of game that they enjoy and are motivated to play.
- Accessibility: Video games can be accessed remotely, making the therapy more convenient for individuals who may have difficulty traveling to a therapy office.
- Assessment: Video games can be used to assess an individual’s cognitive abilities, such as memory, attention, and decision-making skills.