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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
People with Down Syndrome have unique strengths, personalities, and learning styles. Story based games encourage everyone to contribute. Rules can be customized, and stories tailored to suit learning preferences. There are no right or wrong … Read more
Stroke recovery is a journey—sometimes tough, sometimes rewarding. Tabletop games can stimulate recollection and conversation. Stories prompt speech, while dice and tokens gently challenge dexterity and logic without pressure. Online sessions allow survivors to join … Read more
Recreational therapists emphasise person-centred adaptations: communication preferences, sensory plans, and clear behavioural expectations. Games that emphasize teamwork and role differentiation (e.g., Betrayal at House on the Hill, cooperative RPG modules) reduce pressure on any one … Read more
When one suffers from PTSD, social spaces can be hard to navigate. Roleplaying games give structure and control. Storytelling allows for rehearsal of coping skills and safe exposure to imaginary challenges. It’s a way to … Read more
Living with Parkinson’s can feel isolating. Tabletop games re-focus attention on shared goals. Moving game pieces, rolling dice, and storytelling can help maintain fine motor skills. Group play is a reason to get together, breaking … Read more
Carers and parents are pivotal in connecting teens to hobby communities. Start by mapping interests (RPGs, minis, strategy), checking BoardGameGeek to find locally popular titles, and choosing initial formats (one-shot RPG nights, cooperative board games). … Read more
Roleplaying games offer small, attainable goals. Joining a game doesn’t always require much energy, but little wins—solving a puzzle, saving a friend—give a boost. Play is flexible; participation adapts to mood. Remote play is a … Read more
Narrative games require imagination, not perfect eyesight. Group story means talking, listening, and visualizing rather than reading lengthy rules. Adaptations—like large-print sheets, audio aids—let everyone keep up. Online gaming allows custom screen setups—high contrast, magnification, … Read more
Epilepsy causes seizures, which can be unpredictable. Stigma, safety, and focus issues challenge participation in traditional activities. Narrative role-playing breaks the mold. Sessions can pause for safety; stories continue where they left off. The social … Read more
Multiple Sclerosis (MS) creates periods of fatigue, weakness, and unpredictable symptoms. Energy and movement can vary daily. Tabletop roleplaying is energy-friendly. Participation is flexible, and social connection grows regardless of physical skill. When fatigue hits, … Read more
Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD) makes even simple situations stressful. Worry and tension can affect every part of life. Roleplaying games allow practice in handling stress, but within a playful and planned setting. Story prompts can … Read more
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) brings persistent thoughts and urges—habits that can interfere with daily life. Tabletop games bring structured challenge; routines and rituals can be safely explored and practiced through story. Game rules reward order … Read more
Sensory Processing Disorder means the brain has trouble dealing with everyday sights, sounds, smells, or movement. Crowds, bright lights, and noise can feel overwhelming. Narrative games cater to comfort. Play happens in controlled environments, and … Read more
Aphasia is difficulty with language after a brain injury or stroke. Speaking, reading, or writing can be hard, but meaning and intelligence are as strong as ever. Tabletop storytelling lets players use gestures, pictures, and … Read more
Tabletop roleplay creates safe challenges. Children (and grown-ups) control their stories and practice new endings. Group sessions validate experience, promote gentle teamwork, and transform threat into opportunity. Online options mean children join at their pace, … Read more
Intellectual disability covers a range of functioning. Learning, problem-solving, and social interaction can all require tailored approaches. Roleplaying games can be adapted for any skill level: simplified rules, visual aids, and assisted storytelling support participation. … Read more