FAQ

What are Therapeutically-Applied Role-Playing Game (TA-RPG) Groups?

TA-RPG groups use tabletop RPGs (such as Dungeons & Dragons and Monster of the Week) as the mechanism through which evidenced-based group psychotherapy is implemented, such that the gameplay becomes the space where therapy unfolds. This experiential approach allows group members to more immersively work on their therapeutic goals. Group sessions run for 2-hours where 90-min are dedicated to in-game play and the final 30-min are dedicated to processing that day’s game experience. The therapist facilitates the gameplay as Game Master, where they organize, officiate, narrate, and moderate the gameplay. Group members engage in the in-game story through a character they create. Aspects of the character’s personality are explicitly tied to therapy goals. Following the session’s gameplay, members process their in-game experience and explore parallels to personal life. The post-process part of group allows for more in-depth conversations about interpersonal and intrapersonal patterns.

What is the group like?

Our groups meet once a week for 2 hours for a minimum of 12 sessions with 90-min dedicated to in-game play using D&D 5th edition and 30-min of post-game processing. The group experience is tailored to each member’s needs and, before group begins, participants complete an individual clinical interview and self-report questionnaires to better illuminate areas of therapeutic need. This information is then used to establish therapy goals for group, and these goals and therapeutic needs then shape how their character is created. Members also learn to play their characters prior to group so prior gaming experience is not required. The group will first focus on orienting members to the group experience and the in-game narrative. The gameplay story is customized to each group’s preference and the narrative itself evolves as members make choices and take in-game action. Group members are encouraged to work deeply on their goals in both gameplay and in post-process and are supported in sharing more openly and authentically. Group operates with rolling admission which allows for up to six participants. Members are asked to commit to a minimum of 12 sessions and can extend to continue therapeutic work as needed. Progress towards therapy goals will be tracked across group experience via self-report questionnaire.

How much does the group cost?

Our TA-RPG groups cost $100 per session including the pre and post-group individual meetings. Group members are asked to commit to a minimum of 12 sessions with options to extend for continued therapeutic work.

Why does it cost that much?

Dr. Battles is a licensed clinical psychologist with nearly a decade of clinical experience. She utilizes that learning and skill to personalize and tailor the TA-RPG group to each person’s unique clinical needs, cultural background, and life experience. She works with each person individually before group to identify tangible goals for change to help them more actively work towards the life they are seeking. Each person’s therapy goals are integrated into the character that they create with Dr. Battles such that the character’s strength becomes something they want more of in their life and their character’s struggle is something they want less of on their life. This helps the character become a more direct representation of the therapy work at hand. The group’s gameplay narrative is also tailored to each group’s interest and preferences such that no two stories are the same. Finally, it’s worth noting that the average cost of a 50-min individual therapy session in the Twin Cities is on average $160 per session.

What is a Good Faith Estimate?

• Under the law as of January 1, 2022, health care providers are required to provide those who don’t have insurance or who are not using insurance an estimate of the expected charges for medical services, including psychotherapy services. You have the right to receive a “Good Faith Estimate” explaining how much mental health care will cost. You may ask your health care provider for a Good Faith Estimate before you schedule your service. For questions or more information about your right to a Good Faith Estimate, visit www.cms.gov/nosurprises or call (800) 985-3059.
  • Under the law, health care providers need to give patients who don’t have insurance or who are not using insurance an estimate of the bill for medical items and services.
  • You have the right to receive a Good Faith Estimate for the total expected cost of any non-emergency items or services. This includes related costs like medical tests, prescription drugs, equipment, and hospital fees.
  • Make sure your health care provider gives you a Good Faith Estimate in writing at least 1 business day before your medical service or item. You can also ask your health care provider, and any other provider you choose, for a Good Faith Estimate before you schedule an item or service.
  • If you receive a bill that is at least $400 more than your Good Faith Estimate, you can dispute the bill.
  • Make sure to save a copy or picture of your Good Faith Estimate.
• FOR QUESTIONS OR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT YOUR RIGHT TO A GOOD FAITH ESTIMATE, VISIT WWW.CMS.GOV/NOSURPRISES OR CALL (800) 368-1019.

How do I make an appointment for a TA-RPG group?

If you are interested in our TA-RPG group, please visit our Contact Us page to send a message. You may also call us at 763-288-0941 or send an email to info@battlerobincounseling.com.

What if my question wasn’t answered here?

We are happy to answer other questions! Please email us at info@battlerobincounseling.com and we will get back to you as soon as possible.