I have an amazing client. She loves Fantasy. Makes some amazing cosplay creations and also absolutely loves role playing games. I’ve had the immense honour to build a world with her that is worthy of … Read more
I’m running a Starfinder (scifi pathfinder/dungeons and dragons 3.5) this friday night at Lalor Neighbourhood House. $5 entry fee for hall hire comes with snacks and drinks.
I’ll be running Lord of the Rings 5e Dungeons & Dragons games with Affirming Care Services Pty Ltd as part of their Socio-Emotional Language groups. Players will get to step into the world of Middle … Read more
Always Invited, an autistic advocacy organisation, received a community grant from the Victorian Government’s Disability Self Help grants program to run a Dungeons & Dragons beginners game aimed at young neurodivergent people. They selected my … Read more
Circle of Twilight is a free online Dungeons & Dragons campaign co‑created by Affirming Care Services Pty Ltd therapists and clientelle for the 16-19 age group. It is a safe, imaginative space where neurodivergent players … Read more
I have been thinking about the words we use when we talk about teaching and learning, particularly when supporting young people with Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA). A simple question I have found useful is this: … Read more
At Affirming Care Services, our group programs are built around connection, shared interests and meaningful participation. Rather than expecting children and young people to fit into rigid social skills programs, we create supportive spaces where … Read more
Each image showcases some of the tools of my trade as a therapist running Dungeons and Dragons sessions. We have places for each of these social emotional language (SEL) groups at Affirming Care Services Pty … Read more
The following is a recap of a session I ran today. Player names have been changed to protect the innocent. This session was part of my therapist duties with Affirming Care Services Pty Ltd It … Read more
Looking for players in outer north of Melbourne. I’m running an Eberron (steampunk) game of DND at Craigieburn Library, Monday late afternoon/early evening. Beginning with a prequel until we get enough players for a good … Read more
My first time being officially involved in lego therapy sessions – and I am also running the DND sessions in this school holiday program. A mix of DND board games, DND roleplaying games and DND … Read more
Ashley Thorburn has recruited another awesome gaming focused support worker for her business, Thrive Disability Activity Support. “Kohl is based in Footscray and is a safe, queer friendly and trauma-informed support worker. They love table … Read more
One of the DMs I mentor asked me recently about handling a younger player, in online sessions , who struggled a bit with talking over others and social timing during sessions. Thought I’d share my … Read more
Sundays Fortnightly at Reservoir Library. Suits 14.5 to 16. Dungeons and Dragons. Free game. Private client. Fridays weekly online via discord. 3pm to 5pm. Age 16-17. 18-19 possible if a volunteer Working with Children check … Read more
I was asked today by a young neurodiverse client – how did I predict the players actions and their consequences then weave them into the larger story so quickly (there were some big, cinematic moments). … Read more
We meet every second Friday in a relaxed, supportive environment focused on storytelling, creativity, and social connection The game we’re playing is Scion — a modern mythological roleplaying game where you play as the child … Read more
Just because it’s a board game (Adventure Begins), doesn’t mean you can’t put your own spin on the events. This is a very effective method for working with kids with pathological demand avoidance as it … Read more
It’s not just “support” in the traditional sense — it’s creative, engaging, and actually built around what young people enjoy. Physical activity — even just getting moving — is so important for wellbeing, confidence, and … Read more
Discord link for in person and online Game Master meetups in Melbourne, Victoria. Sometimes we meet up in a whiskey bar in the CBD. https://discord.gg/GRwNvBDBzX Our next meeting is online, March 24 7.30pm in the … Read more
It’s incredibly rewarding to see participants grow and connect through storytelling and shared adventure. If you know a young neurodivergent female who loves imagination, storytelling and connecting with like-minded peers, this could be a wonderful … Read more
These children may react strongly to perceived criticism or mistakes, so gentle humour can reduce tension and make difficult moments feel safer. When used kindly, humour shows that errors are normal and not something to … Read more
The rescue of the party’s leige lord, David Freedom, from the arms of Umberley herself, vindictive goddess of the ocean. They’ve found: This is the Devils Maw, the entrance to a maritime trench where Umberley … Read more
Captives of the Catfolk – the Mess Hall. I tell the clients what the scene is, and they set it up using an assortment of paper minis, old toys, new toys, and a coffee cup … Read more
Michael Thorburn is the founder of the Game Therapy Network. His daughter, Ashley Thorburn, runs an activity based disability agency Thrive Disability Activity Support and they have a new worker with gaming experience. Anna is … Read more
I’m also passionate about the difference that Autism Valued can make in the lives of its autistic membership. Job coaching is just one aspect of what they do, but it’s an aspect that can give … Read more
Michael Thorburn, founder of the Game Therapy Network, had the great pleasure today to mentor Noah from Thrive Disability Activity Support in the difference between running social games and running gaming supports using aspects of … Read more
Exercise boosts focus, memory, and mood, reduces stress, and fights the stiff neck + low energy combo from sitting all day. You don’t need to multiclass into “gym bro.” Start small: walks, push-ups between sessions, … Read more
I have known Emilee since she was a baby (she is my daughter’s best friend and their mothers met in mothers group and became best friends) and I can say without a shadow of doubt … Read more
Game Therapist Michael Thorburn’s daughter Ashley is looking for some new clients for her activity based support agency. Ashley studies game design at University, but is also an international level inline speed skater and was … Read more
“Introducing the newest member of the Affirming Care Services team: Michael Thorburn – Game therapist and dungeon master extraordinaire! We’re thrilled to have another passionate D&D enthusiast to facilitate our table game-based programs of support.” … Read more
Autism Valued is running a Dungeons and Dragons roleplaying game group for neurodivergent kids aged 10–17 this coming term. I facilitated this program for several years but have now handed the reigns to my awesome … Read more
(The cartoon was part of my session notes, lol) It looked like a soap opera on the surface, but underneath we were working on theory of mind, perspective-taking, logic, debating, emotional regulation, and flexible thinking. … Read more
This game was created with my mature aged intellectual disabled clients in my model making program at Carinya Society in Coburg North, Melbourne. IMAGE DEPICTS AN ARRAY OF HAND DRAWN PAPER MINIS IN AFL FOOTBALL … Read more
DND for the win. IMAGE READS: Dear Michael, Wishing you a merry christmas and a happy new year.I can’t express how great you have been as a DM so far and I look forward to … Read more
My favourite grass roots charity, Autism Valued, is looking for a Dungeon Master Assistant to support their Dungeons & Dragons groups. The role is mostly about helping the main DM, guiding players when they need … Read more
After finishing our year-long Pathfinder dark fantasy homebrew campaign “Out of Darkness, Comes the Light”, our in-person, greensborough based 18+ group are jumping into something completely different, and much lighter, and we’re opening a few … Read more
It still surprises people when I tell them there are real jobs in gaming — not just in the tech or entertainment world, but in health and education too. We’re starting to see positions pop … Read more
Dungeons & Dragons Youth Supervisor (Bullsbrook), Indigo Junction | SEEK Volunteer This isn’t just any ordinary volunteer role- this is your chance to create a magical space for local youth to gather, strategise, and roll … Read more
#reservoir A Free Dungeons & Dragons Campaign Client: Neurodivergent (AuDHD) female mid-teen. Age Range for group: mid-teens. Location: Reservoir, Victoria. Day/time: To be advised. Gender diverse encouraged. Lgbtqia+ safe space. With my client I have … Read more
The Hills Have Diceas per Glynn DaltonTabletop Social Club Boardgame and Tabletop social club based in Belgrave and the surrounding areas. Thanks to those who came down on Wednesday! Our next night will be Wednesday … Read more
Went to a client’s (age 10) house today for DND where we co-dm. Proud moment when said client pulled out the packaging boxes they have been collecting for terrain in our campaign. Positive gaming isn’t … Read more
Along with my pal, Dan the Game Master, I’ll be at PAX Australia this weekend (Saturday and Sunday) working with Young Adventurers League. I’ll be running Dungeons and Dragons games for kids 10 and under. … Read more
By encouraging creativity, imagination, and storytelling, players build emotional resilience and social confidence. Rolling dice with friends becomes a regular ritual of laughter, connection, and shared goals — all of which contribute to a stronger … Read more
Would you like your autistic children to be involved in a lifelong hobby? One where they can walk into any game store for the rest of their life and become the centre of their own … Read more
Looking for a safe, creative and social activity for your autistic child these school holidays? You’ve laughed at the movie – now play the game! Try AV’s Dungeons & Dragons roleplaying games! You can email … Read more
EOI: Free game of Dungeons and Dragons in Reservoir area. Mid teens. Acceptance of neurodivergent folks integral. More details to come, pls DM me as well as comment.
Through story and teamwork, games like Dungeons & Dragons help players explore emotions, build problem-solving skills, and find new perspectives on life’s challenges. Therapists across Australia — including those offering NDIS-funded supports — use structured … Read more
Saturday afternoons 2-4pm (fortnightly). A social get together for young autistic adults. This is a private event. No charges involved. ” An opportunity to get to know other people with same and maybe build some … Read more
Hi all, Dan the Game Master , masters educated teacher and member of the Game Therapy Network, is looking at starting up an afterschool roleplaying game club in Footscray and is gathering pre-registrations. If you’re … Read more
A simple stopwatch, introduced then set aside, gives the sense of fair rules and illusion of even time, helping participants feel secure. These foundations support confidence and help with acquiring of the skills to join … Read more
Halfway up, they were confronted by glimmers of themselves — fragments from across time — asking pointed questions. If a question was not answered truthfully, the target suffered 1d4 psychic damage. Players took on the … Read more
Social isolation is a growing concern, particularly in regional Australia and among people living with disability. Tabletop roleplaying games offer a structured yet flexible way to reconnect with others. Playing D&D encourages teamwork, laughter, and … Read more
I’ve got 3 games of Lost Mine of Phandelver at various times listed on www.startplaying.games/gm/gametherapy These are not therapy sessions, I’m testing the platform to help my clients get paid work. #amateurdmwhogetspaid StartPlaying Games is … Read more
Every D&D session is a social experience built on cooperation, humour, and shared adventure. Players work together to solve problems and tell stories, which naturally encourages teamwork and trust. Over time, these moments form the … Read more
Melbourne has a vibrant and growing community of Game Masters (GMs) and Dungeon Masters (DMs) who run tabletop roleplaying games like Dungeons & Dragons, Pathfinder, Call of Cthulhu, and many more. For these storytellers and … Read more
Ringwood Social Games is a vibrant community initiative in Melbourne’s eastern suburbs, dedicated to bringing together board game enthusiasts of all ages and experience levels. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or a newcomer, these events … Read more
Playing games—whether tabletop roleplaying games, board games, or card games—is a fantastic way to socialise, relax, and develop new skills. Luckily, Australia offers many welcoming public spaces where gamers of all ages and interests can … Read more
Michael Thorburn and the team at the Game Therapy Network are pioneering a unique approach to disability support by offering specialized training sessions for disability service providers on using tabletop roleplaying games (TTRPGs) with their … Read more
Victoria New South Wales Queensland South Australia Western Australia Online Programs These programs highlight the power of D&D as a therapeutic and social tool, fostering connection, creativity, and personal growth. If you’re interested, visit the … Read more
I’m adding locations, programs, businesses etc that offer TTRPG ((like Dungeons and Dragons) and boardgame events to my website I have a neat geodirectory function where folks can search for game spaces near them. If … Read more
Are there any Steam genius’ around? My 10yr old is a PC gamer and now they want access to the Console Tab in Steam, but I can’t see how to allow access without fully disabling … Read more
Recovering from a stroke can be an overwhelming journey, involving physical, cognitive, and emotional challenges. Increasingly, healthcare professionals are turning to an unexpected but powerful tool to support stroke survivors: games. From digital video games … Read more
Event Name: Teens Group: June – online meeting When: 13 June 2025, 7:00 PM–9:00 PM (AEST) Where: Online via Discord only Cost: $5 for AV members, $10 for non‑members; free for +Groups membership holders & first‑time attendees. Who is it for: … Read more
Schizophrenia, a complex mental health condition characterized by disruptions in thought processes, perceptions, and emotions, often requires multifaceted therapeutic interventions. One innovative and promising tool in this space is game therapy, an approach that harnesses … Read more
The Game Therapy Network is a Melbourne-based initiative that harnesses the power of games to promote mental health, social inclusion, and community connection. Through its Facebook page, facebook.com/gametherapynetwork, the network shares updates on therapeutic gaming … Read more
In Melbourne, games and leisure activities are more than just pastimes—they are powerful tools for fostering community integration and combating social isolation. Across the city, a variety of programs and facilities are designed to bring … Read more
The clear rules, predictable structure, and shared goals of Dungeons & Dragons provide a safe framework for social interaction. Australian therapists and NDIS providers increasingly use tabletop RPGs in social skills programs. Participants practice communication, … Read more
Nearly half of Victorian male inmates live with undiagnosed acquired brain injuries (ABIs), often stemming from trauma, substance use, or accidents. Without early screening and support, these individuals face cycles of incarceration. Programs like Voices … Read more
I’m building waiting lists by location for in-person games and also offer online sessions! These games are free for players on my waiting lists because the focus is on group work for my clients. If … Read more
The game’s mix of storytelling, decision-making, and problem-solving keeps attention engaged while promoting executive functioning skills. Therapists and educators across Australia have noted improvements in attention, impulse control, and cooperative behaviour among participants who regularly … Read more
After waking as captives of the catfolk in a mysterious dungeon, our party has uncovered a diabolical doppleganger plot. Oozefolk Goopulicates are taking over! After rescuing some catfolk and discovering the weakness of the Ooze … Read more
“Michael has been a reliable and effective support for my 14-year-old son who has Autism. Michael has assisted us with forming and maintaining a Dungeons & Dragons group which has proven to be highly enjoyable … Read more
I have absolutely nothing to say about this post and it’s relation to games and therapy EXCEPT one of the best friends I’ve ever had in my life took this photo. Sometimes it just takes … Read more
In our Sport Appreciation Program, we share stories, favourite teams, and treasured memories — with football often at the heart of it all. One of our favourite activities is making football puppets, turning passion into … Read more
Every Monday we celebrate a lifelong love of sport in a mature aged intellectually disabled program at a disability day centre. Our Sport Appreciation Program honours the passion our participants carry for teams, games, and … Read more
What a unique program! This fantastic grass roots organisation is open for registrations to their Term 2 Roleplaying Games programs. Largely led by lived experience neurodivergent facilitators who are paid for their time, all members … Read more
Graffiti: From Street Walls to Family Walls Graffiti is often misunderstood — dismissed as rebellion or vandalism. But in a safe, creative space, it becomes something powerful: a way to connect. Controlled graffiti sessions can … Read more
We threw the party into chaos with a magical mind swap — each player had to play a different character’s body while keeping their original personality. The result? Hilarious teamwork, creative confusion, and lots of … Read more
In Captives of the Catfolk, the players wake up in a mysterious dungeon, captured by eccentric Catfolk who serve exotic interdimensional masters. As they navigate their captivity, they realize that multiple Oozefolk doppelgängers have infiltrated … Read more
For individuals living with early-onset dementia, tabletop roleplaying games offer mental stimulation and meaningful social connection. In Australia, some aged care and community programs are exploring RPGs as cognitive therapy tools. Storytelling requires participants to … Read more
Today, I ran world-building sessions with two autistic siblings to create interconnected #DND campaigns tailored to their needs. Each sibling has their own world—one dark and treacherous, the other filled with animals, rainbows, and Jellos. … Read more
They promote cognitive exercise, communication, and social engagement in a fun, low-pressure environment. Australian occupational therapists and support workers have found tabletop RPGs useful for rebuilding language and executive function. Players must remember rules, describe … Read more
As elders share stories over steaming cups of tea, youngers learn about traditions, hospitality, and the importance of community. I spent today playing cards with an Iraqi aged social support group at an Iraqi restaurant … Read more
**Sky Kings Tomb** SYSTEM Pathfinder 2e remastered LOCATION In person game in Greensborough, Victoria. TIME Wednesday nights 6pm onwards. PRICE: Free social game PARTY SIZE: 5/6 **Beginners Welcome.** AGE: 18+ *Millennia ago, the dwarven creator … Read more
Pathfinder 2e soft cover in digest size. Less money, and more love. Building a social circle for an #autistic adult client using this game system. Games will be at their local gameshop before moving to … Read more
Roleplaying games offer a unique form of social and emotional support for veterans. In Australia, veteran-focused programs and RSL groups have started to use tabletop RPGs to help former service members reconnect, manage stress, and … Read more
It’s that time again – registrations are now open for Aspergers Victoria’s Dungeon and Dragons term program. Groups are a mix of online and in person. Aspergers Victoria (a name chamge is coming) is a … Read more
DND offers a creative outlet where players can rebuild confidence, trust, and communication skills in a supportive group setting. Australian recovery centres and support programs are beginning to include tabletop RPGs as part of holistic … Read more
From kids to adults, comics can be a bridge to new skills, social connection, and emotional well-being. A small step into a colorful world can lead to big changes! I have several online clients I … Read more
With PDA (Pathological Demand Avoidance), traditional expectations—like getting dressed, attending school, or completing work—can cause serious distress. It doesn’t mean someone doesn’t want to do things; it means the anxiety around demands is overwhelming. Narrative tabletop games … Read more
Tabletop role-playing games (TTRPGs) like Dungeons & Dragons are low-pressure, social scaffolds perfect for teens who are autistic or otherwise neurodivergent. As a diversional therapist, Michael Thorburn thinks in outcomes: short-term goals (turn-taking, eye contact … Read more
In D&D, chance (rolling dice) exists, but it’s framed within teamwork and narrative, not financial stakes. Therapeutic game programs in Australia and abroad use RPGs to help participants reconnect socially while managing urges related to … Read more
As a Recreation Therapist, I’ve seen firsthand how Dungeons & Dragons (DND) can transform lives—especially for individuals with health concerns like Acquired Braini Injuries 《ABI), Cerebral Palsy. or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Add physical terrain … Read more
I have a young client, 12-13 age group, in South Morang area who will be attending St Helena Secondary College next year (2025). We are looking to add a player to our existing FREE Dungeons … Read more
I have a slot open for a 2 hour session on Tuesdays 12.30 till 2.30pm. Leisure counselling, recreation education, community integration, resource building. All age groups, all health conditions.
Cerebral Palsy can range from mild to complex, but every form influences how a person interacts with physical space. Roleplaying games can offer a stunning escape from physical limitation. Players lead stories through imagination: describing … Read more
Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) & Purposeful Game Play Tabletop games and online gaming have shown real promise in this domain. Research indicates older adults trained with video games improved cognitive functions and mood. Pick games … Read more
I write program goals that emphasise participation, accessibility and self-efficacy: adaptive components (large-print cards, card holders, simplified setup), shorter play blocks with clear breaks, and roles that let everyone contribute (rule-keeper, score-tracker, strategist). BoardGameGeek is … Read more
Abstract (link to paper at end of article) Purpose The present study aimed to investigate how prior research of TTRPG revealed the benefits of TTRPG as a psychological intervention and how further studies can overcome … Read more
“Well, them Duke boys are at it again. Looks like they’re about to take a shortcut… the hard way!” I left my #schoolcant group on a #cliffhanger today – attacked by #desert#raiders in #xendrik #ebberon#dungeonsanddragons#cars#madmax … Read more
Schizophrenia can deeply affect social engagement and self-confidence. Tabletop roleplaying games provide structure within creativity—rules that give safety and stories that allow exploration. A person can channel imagination into shared narratives without judgment, working gently … Read more
Though not a single disease, the issue of social isolation and loneliness in older adults is a major health concern — linked to higher morbidity, depression and cognitive decline. Diversional therapy teaches that structured leisure … Read more
With the changes to the #NDIS in #Australia (yes, we exist), I thought it’s about time to return to posting studies on the #beneficial effects of #games here. 1. Bowman, S. L. (2010) – The … Read more
Arthritis & Cooperative Tabletop Sessions Diversional therapy means choosing recreation that accommodates those limitations while still fostering social involvement and fun. Cooperative board games and online play are excellent. Choose games with low dexterity demand: … Read more
In therapeutic terms, wargaming supports executive function (planning, sequencing), perspective-taking (anticipating opponent moves), and routine building (regular club nights). Popular titles and systems trend on BoardGameGeek and include games with approachable entry points as well … Read more
I’m excited to announce that I’ve joined www.startplaying.games as a Game Master! While my passion has always been helping people through therapeutic recreation, I’m stepping into the world of professional GMing as an “amateur DM … Read more
In this #gametherapy session, the companions Asragon ( #halfling #rogue ) and Jeffsmith (one word, #human #druid ) awakened in a #mysterious #dungeon as #captives of the #catfolk . After escaping, they took a #quick #dip in a crusty old #gelatinouscube where they discovered a #posh orc looting bodies! A #friendly enough #fellow, Sir asked for a #cupofteaandaliedown . Some friendly banter … Read more
I’m looking for (client request) an assigned female at birth (AFAB) support worker who is able to run TTRPG games like Dungeons and Dragons 5e, Pathfinder 2e, etc, etc. Melbourne, Australia location but will consider … Read more
Abstract (link to paper at end of article)Tabletop gaming has seen a rise in popularity over the past ten years, with an influx ofinterest following the Coronavirus pandemic. Limited research has explored the impact of … Read more
I have one more slot in my School Can’t program for Aspergers Victoria… Thursday afternoons 12pm to 3pm on Zoom and Discord. I never enforce cameras on and I work mindfully with my players (these … Read more
Recently got this incredible game to a #neurodivergent table. Holding the game in the first photo is one of our #livedexperience Dungeon Masters , Elodie. Elodie also holds a Bachelor of Biology in #PlantScience and … Read more
I have multiple small group telehealth availabilities for the school holidays on Wednesdays and Thursdays starting at 10am and reaching into the evening. Mindful roleplaying games (dungeons and dragons, pathfinder, hero Kids, savage worlds, marvel … Read more
I have slots open for 1:1 clients Tuesday 3.00pm to 5pm; Thursday 3.30pm to 5.30pm; and Friday 4pm to 6pm. I offer recreational therapy to adults and children with the following concerns: Autism Spectrum Disorder, … Read more
I am Aspergers Victoria (volunteer) membership coordinator, so if you need any extra information about this program please let me know.
In “A critical hit: Dungeons & Dragons as a buff for autistic people”, Atherton and colleagues explore how tabletop role-playing games (TTRPGs) like Dungeons & Dragons (D&D) can be a positive space for autistic adults. … Read more
Sluggish Cognitive Tempo (SCT) isn’t the same as ADHD, though it often overlaps. Many with SCT feel foggy or left behind in fast-paced environments. Roleplaying games slow the world to a manageable rhythm. Players take … Read more
Age-Related Macular Degeneration & Inclusive Game Play Diversional therapy invites us to think adaptively: can the game be matched to their abilities, can online play reduce physical barriers, can we build social connection anyway? The … Read more
From a recreational therapy perspective, online play supports graded return to social participation, cognitive retraining (memory, attention), and energy conservation (shorter, paced sessions). Studies show digital gaming can decrease loneliness and support connection across ages; … Read more
Abstract (link to paper at end of article) Background: The area of social skills is broad, in theory and in practice. For social skills training, various clinical practices have been applied in group sessions, as have … Read more
Looking for early expressions of interest for a tabletop roleplaying group (Pathfinder 2e remastered) in Doreen for young adults 19-25 that would be open to beginners. This would be an in person game in my … Read more
I’m looking to subcontract (refer clients) to a nice professional game master, who has an understanding of disability issues, and would be available in the eastern and southeastern suburbs of Melbourne, Victoria for in person … Read more
Looking for early expressions of interest for a tabletop roleplaying group (Pathfinder 2e remastered) in Doreen for young adults 19-25 that would be open to beginners. This would be an in person game in my … Read more
Auditory Processing Disorder and background noise can turn conversations into confusion, affecting learning and friendships. Tabletop roleplaying games offer a quieter, more focused social space. With structured turns and visible cues, players aren’t bombarded by … Read more
COPD & Leisure Gaming for Breath-Friendly Social Time As diversional therapists we recommend leisure that is seated, social, paced and mentally stimulating — and tabletop/online gaming fits the brief. Select games that allow flexible pacing: … Read more
Cooperative tabletop games give teens a shared mission: they win or lose together. For young people with a diagnosis such as schizophrenia, these shared goals reduce adversarial dynamics, lower stigma in the moment, and provide … Read more
Researchers have come up with a creative new way to help people with gambling problems avoid relapses: a virtual “serious game” called Alter Game. The idea is to combine traditional cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) with … Read more
Take over the library on Friday night with exclusive access, FREE pizza and your favourite games! Running past the usual opening hours, join us from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM for a bunch of different … Read more
TLDR: Here is the direct link to sign up to my School Can’t ASD program with Aspergers Victoriahttps://www.aspergersvic.org.au/event-5773726 Dungeons and Dragons (D&D) can be highly beneficial for homeschooled children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The structured … Read more
Bipolar disorder involves shifts between depressive and manic (or hypomanic) moods. These mood cycles can affect energy, concentration, and relationships — but creativity and empathy often shine through. Sometimes you’re “on,” sometimes you’re out. When … Read more
With age comes increased risk of Osteoporosis, fractures and reduced mobility. Diversional therapy emphasises safe, accessible recreation that promotes cognitive engagement and social connection (which in turn supports compliance and mood). Board games and online … Read more
As a recreational therapist I frame sessions around graded exposure: start with paired clue rounds, move to small groups, then full-table plays. These games are also top hits on community popularity lists and appear often … Read more
The answer looks promising. Participants who reported playing computer games often had a roughly 19 % lower risk of developing dementia compared to those who never or rarely played. They also scored better on memory, reasoning, … Read more
In “Defeating Dragons and Demons: Consumers’ Perspectives on Mental Health Recovery in Role-Playing Games” by Causo & Quinlan, the authors explore how tabletop RPGs—specifically Dungeons & Dragons—can play a meaningful role in mental-health recovery. Through … Read more
Hi, as well as running a School Cant Dungeons and Dragons program for Aspergers Victoria, I own over 10 000 comic books. AV has multiple DND groups running each term as you can see in … Read more
Social anxiety turns every group activity into a potential source of stress. Speaking up, making friends, and trying new things can feel impossible. Roleplaying games flip the dynamic; you aren’t yourself, you’re a character. That … Read more
In roleplaying games, people with autism can explore scenarios at their own pace, test social scripts, and develop empathy—all without real-life risk. Characters can be anyone, do anything. Social dynamics are gentler because they’re imaginative. … Read more
AVs winter school holiday dungeons and dragons program is open for registrations. DM Elodie and DM Nicholas are both #livedexperience#autistic dungeonmasters. Elodie is my assistant in my #SchoolCant#DND program and Nicholas is a professional DM … Read more
When an older adult experiences limb loss (amputation) or major mobility limitation, recreational therapy helps create inclusive leisure that supports rehabilitation, identity and community. Tabletop gaming — especially online adaptively supported — is a powerful … Read more
For teens seeking belonging, this continuity matters more than a single session. From a therapeutic perspective, campaign play supports social role development, responsibility (story-keeping, calendar management), and intersession socialising. BoardGameGeek community lists often track campaign … Read more
As a therapeutic game master, it’s easy to feel the pressure of needing to be at your best for every moment of every session. When things don’t go as planned, it’s important to remember that … Read more
Expressions of Interest for online group roleplaying game sessions. Prices to be discussed, but I always use NDIS pricing arrangements. My clients include: Stroke Survivors, Acquired Brain Injury Survivors, Dementia including early onset, Adult Autism … Read more
In the review titled “A Scoping Review of Tabletop Role‑Playing Game (TTRPG) as Psychological Intervention: Potential Benefits and Future Directions”, Yuliawati, Wardhani & Ng dig into how games like tabletop role‑playing games (TTRPGs) — think systems … Read more
As a recreation therapist, I also assist Applied Dungeon Masters in their #games . Assisting in an online #dungeonsanddragons game for #autistic#teens I provide individualised support that enhances their gaming experience. I do this in … Read more
Sitting still isn’t always possible, and listening for long stretches can be tough. Roleplaying games make attention fun. Adventures fuel engagement; turns structure participation. Creative thinking and problem-solving become superpowers, not obstacles. For online play, … Read more
UPDATE: Due to a change in scheduling, we are looking for another player for this group. I have a young client, 12-13 age group, looking to start a FREE Dungeons and Dragons game in their … Read more
Today’s #dungeonsanddragons#game for Aspergers Victoria and their #Schoolcant program featured #camels pulling #steel#girders off a #monstertruck #gametherapy#rectherapy#roleplayinggames#eberron#steampunk#terrainbuilt The terrain featured in this picture was made and painted by #intellectuallydisabled#matureaged participants in a disability centre I work at as an #instructor.
“Your (school can’t DND program with Asperger’s Victoria) was a lifeline for my child last year. It was a really tough time for them, they found they couldn’t face school but each week they were … Read more
Over time, mobility can be severely limited with Muscular Dystrophy, but creativity and social spirit remain strong. Story-based games let everyone join equally. Imagination moves faster than muscles, and narrative play means physical differences don’t … Read more
Managing Type 2 diabetes in older age isn’t just about medication and diet — it’s about lifestyle, routine and social support. Leisure-based recreation can help form those routines. As diversional therapists we encourage games that … Read more
For teens with sensory sensitivities or those who are autistic, the hands-on focus provides a predictable, calming shared task while social interaction happens naturally around the craft. Miniatures hobbies are also gateway activities into wargaming … Read more