Role-playing games like Dungeons and Dragons aren’t new but a social worker for the Mental Health Crisis Team at the Cornwall Community Hospital is putting a spin on it. Matthew Varette has launched Roll for Recovery, an organization that helps people work through trauma, anxiety and other challenges through gaming and role-playing.
While traditional therapy might feel daunting to some, Roll for Recovery provides a more relaxed—and more fun— approach. By playing board games—think Scrabble or Taboo— and role-playing games like D&D or Pugmire, players can work on lessening their social anxiety, building relationships, coping with anxiety or impulses, or strengthening resiliency.
“Using role-playing as a tool for therapy can be powerful. You can step outside yourself and try out new skills without real-life consequences.”
As the organization gets rolling with new game night sessions, stay tuned to their Facebook page for upcoming dates.
