The Game Therapy Framework
Created by Leticia Vasquez, LCSW
Game Therapy combines narrative psychology, cooperative game systems, and executive-function skill building to create engaging therapeutic and learning experiences.
This framework explores how structured play, storytelling, and collaborative problem solving can help individuals develop emotional resilience, agency, and creativity.
What Is Game Therapy? (Definition)
Game therapy integrates storytelling, role-playing systems, and structured challenges into therapeutic work.
Games provide clear goals, feedback loops, and collaborative problem solving. These elements mirror the cognitive processes involved in executive function, including planning, working memory, and emotional regulation.
By embedding therapeutic insights inside narrative challenges, individuals can practice new behaviors in psychologically safe environments.
What Is the Drowse?
The Drowse is a metaphor for a psychological state of creative paralysis, burnout, or dissociation.
Many individuals experience the Drowse when they feel trapped inside systems that do not match their cognitive style or emotional needs.
Within the Game Therapy Framework, overcoming the Drowse represents reclaiming curiosity, self-direction, and personal agency.
The Tank / Healer / DPS Model
The Game Therapy Framework uses cooperative game archetypes to represent different psychological strategies.
Tank roles represent structure, boundaries, and planning.
Healer roles represent emotional regulation, restoration, and support.
DPS roles represent initiative, experimentation, and forward action.
Together these roles form a balanced approach to solving complex life challenges.