What Role Could Online Gaming Play in Teen Mental Health?
Wyoming Behavioral Institute’s Outpatient and Telehealth Clinic is pleased to announce the availability of an online role-playing therapy group for male and female teens ages 13-17. Role-playing games (RPGs) like Dungeons & Dragons have long been associated with creativity and fun, but recent research suggests they may also offer mental health benefits. An RPG therapy group can foster social skills, problem-solving and emotional resilience through immersive storytelling, teamwork and structured role-playing in a supportive and therapeutic gaming environment.
A study published in Frontiers in Psychology explores how RPGs can support emotional well-being and therapeutic outcomes[1]. Researchers found that RPGs foster collaboration and communication, reducing feelings of isolation. Players can experiment with identity and decision-making in a controlled environment, which can help with anxiety and self-esteem. Storytelling within RPGs mirrors techniques used in psychotherapy, allowing participants to reframe experiences and build resilience.
Clinicians are beginning to integrate RPGs into group therapy sessions. These games encourage problem-solving, empathy and teamwork—skills that translate into real-life coping strategies. Whether in clinical settings or casual play, rolling the dice might just help roll away stress.
WBI’s Outpatient and Telehealth Clinic offers school-based teletherapy and high-fidelity wraparound services, individual and family counseling, and a virtual mental health intensive outpatient program for teens. The new RPG therapy group is led by therapist Christian Coulter, PCSW, Tuesdays from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. Each group lasts eight to 12 weeks. For more information about the RPG or to make a referral, contact Christian via email, [email protected], or by calling 307-439-4118.
[1] Role-play Games (RPGs) for Mental Health (Why Not?): Roll for Initiative. PubMed Central. [pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov]
