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. 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. RPGs are more than entertainment — they can be powerful tools for mental health support. 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, Christian.coulter@uhsinc.com, or by calling 307-439-4118.
Role-play Games (RPGs) for Mental Health (Why Not?): Roll for Initiative. PubMed Central. [pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov]
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