D&D Group Therapy FAQ
What is D&D group therapy?
D&D group therapy is designed to have you experience therapeutic growth and community building. Groups can include the use of evidenced-based therapy approaches such as CBT, ACT, MI, narrative and exposure therapy. Each group, during session 0, will create a group goal they will work on together during sessions. D&D is the tool we use to apply group therapy practices.
Each player is instructed to develop a therapeutic personal goal. This goal is only known and discussed between the player/client and the therapist/Dungeon Master (DM). Players will be instructed and given guidance in session 0 to create an integrated character that resembles connections to the player’s life experiences. This integration has connection in the character’s backstory and personality traits.
As your DM, I am happy to negotiate the rule of cool. I also add in a new skill for your character to experience: Mental Health Ability Check (WISDOM). Through D&D group therapy, you can gain insights into thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, in a supportive and validating environment.
Who is D&D group therapy for?
Currently, groups consist of ages 18+ and is LGBTQIA2S+ and neurodivergent friendly and supported. This experience can be for those wanting to focus on anxiety, depression, PTSD, grief, communication, and building connections with other group participants and non-player characters (NPCs).
Do I need insurance for this group?
No insurance needed or required. D&D groups are an out-of-pocket cost at $40 per session ONLY.
Can I join more than one group?
Yes! You may join as many groups as you’d like. Other groups may partake in different adventures, online and/or in-person.
How many sessions are included in D&D group therapy?
The number of sessions may vary based on group size and adventure details. Generally, I have seen 10-12 sessions is a number of sessions to complete an adventure.
How long is a session and how frequent will they occur?
Sessions generally will be 2 1/2 - 3 hours per session. Sessions are held bi-weekly. Length of sessions and frequency are subject to change based on client and group demand and requests. Those who are interested in groups will receive email updates with finalized group details.
What do I need to bring to group?
An open mind! You are welcome to bring snacks and drinks, as well as fidgets, to group.
For In-Person Sessions: Items such as safety tools, writing and character sheets, a dice set and dice tray, will all be provided for you in the first group session. I will also have available various fidgets, snacks, and drinks.
What if I can’t think of a therapeutic personal goal?
You don’t have to go through this process alone. We can work on this process together, as needed. Personal goals may include something you’d like more practice in applying, something you may be struggling with in life, something you want to continue to maintain, and/or experience using role-play as a tool.
Will there be a session 0?
Per new adventure, we will have a session 0. During a session 0 we will discuss house rules, safety tools, character development, and/or therapeutic goals.
Where will groups be located?
In-person groups take place at the University Place office location. See the Services tab for more information.
How do I sign up for a group or wait list?
You can sign up by going to the Contact tab on our website and completing the information form.
What happens after I get signed up?
Once you are signed up, if you are a new participant, I will follow up on your email to schedule an initial phone call to explore what you’d like to focus on, strengths, and challenges.
You will also receive an email with adventures and group details to see what you might be interested in. Based on your preferences and focus(es), I will investigate which group(s) and adventure(s) might be best suited for your experience.
