Mrijetwortsi | The DreamForgers (UA)
Mrijetwortsi | The DreamForgers
What Are Tabletop Role-Playing Games?
Tabletop Role-Playing Games (TTRPGs) are a form of collaborative storytelling where players take on the roles of fictional characters, while a Game Master (GM) guides the world around them.
It’s a blend of improvisational theater, gaming, and art, where each participant shapes the story through their choices.
TTRPGs encompass a vast array of rule systems and genres, extending far beyond just Dungeons & Dragons—each game can be adventurous, dramatic, comedic, or even terrifying.
Stories can last anywhere from a few hours, as “one-shots” to years-long campaigns, creating unique, epic, or deeply personal narratives.
Imagine being the hero of a book that's written as you play, where the rules help guide events, but the ending is always a mystery. Whether you're saving the universe from a ruthless evil or a band of traveling goblins who just burned down another tavern while arguing over who should pay for the ale—it's up to you!
Group Psychotherapy
Additionally, TTRPGs are actively used in group psychotherapy! And this combination is nothing new—psychodrama and similar practices have been incorporated into therapeutic sessions since the late 20th century.
However, TTRPGs specifically help reduce the anxiety that can arise in clinical settings or a therapist’s office by turning therapy into an engaging and enjoyable experience. Rather than being another source of stress, they provide genuine relief.
How Does This Work?
- A Safe Space for Self-Expression. In role-playing games, participants take on the roles of fictional characters. This allows them to explore their emotions and behaviors without fear of judgment. For example, someone struggling with confidence can play a strong leader and experience what it feels like to be self-assured.
- Development of Social Skills. TTRPGs often require teamwork, negotiation, and conflict resolution. This helps participants improve communication skills, learn to collaborate, and gain a better understanding of others.
- Simulating Real-Life Challenges. Games can create scenarios that mirror real-life situations, allowing players to “practice” handling them in a safe environment before facing them in reality.
- Resolving Inner Conflicts. Through role-playing, individuals can explore their fears, anxieties, and unresolved issues. For example, by playing a character faced with a difficult choice, a person may better understand their own emotions and discover ways to address personal challenges.