Washington Mental Health Counselors Conference 2026

Therapeutic Applications of Tabletop Role-Playing Games

Tabletop role-playing games such as Dungeons and Dragons and Pathfinder have increased in popularity in the last several decades. When facilitated by a trained professional, therapeutically applied role-playing games (TA-RPG) are a powerful tool for insight, growth, and change for individuals and communities.

Therapeutically applied role-playing games are an emerging area of treatment for many populations, and are particularly well-suited for use with adolescents and adults with ADHD and autism. TA-RPG groups allow opportunities for real-time social practice and genuine relationship building, with the engagement and psychological safety of a game environment. Especially for individuals who are averse to traditional therapies, TA-RPG groups can create opportunities for mental health intervention and connection in-line with the participant’s comfort and interests. Further, TA-RPG groups can be run both in-person and virtually, increasing the accessibility of this intervention.

Speakers:

Elizabeth Kilmer, Respec Psychological Services, PLLC, Co-Owner, Clinical Psychologist

Hayden Jones, Respec Psychological Services