'Game Changer' article in UKCP's New Psychotherapist

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Written By Ellie Finch

I’m very proud to have an article in the Autumn 2024 edition of the UKCP’s New Psychotherapist. My article, titled ‘Game Changer’, appears right after the piece on AI - do have a look at that as well!

In the article, I explore the therapeutic benefits of using video games to engage clients, remove barriers, and deepen connection. I illustrate some points with an anonymised, amalgamated case study and include tips for 'levelling up' your practice - for example, even just talking to your clients about the games they like might take your conversations in interesting directions.

Please note that the print edition sent to UKCP members contained edits I hadn’t approved, some of which altered my intended meaning. New Psychotherapist has issued an apology and erratum, which was emailed to members this week. The correction will also be included in the next print edition. If you received the print edition, please treat the online PDF as the definitive version.

Check out the article here: https://www.psychotherapy.org.uk/media/dz3fbkfv/87_new-psychotherapist-autumn-2024_web.pdf

Ellie Finch

Ellie Finch, MA MBACP (Accred), is a clinical supervisor, counsellor, and social worker specialising in support for neurodivergent clients and families of children with additional needs or complex conditions.

Her work is rooted in a neurodiversity-affirming approach, which values neurodivergence as a natural variation in human experience and focuses on building supportive, respectful environments rather than 'fixing' difference.

Ellie is known for her innovative use of creative digital tools and videogames like Minecraft in therapy to create accessible, engaging support. She is founder of PlayMode Academy, a non-profit social venture that trains professionals in the therapeutic use of creative digital tools.

PlayMode Academy is part of Ellie Finch Counselling, Consultancy and Training Ltd, a non-profit company limited by guarantee (a structure often used by social ventures in the UK).

Ellie is also part of the University of Cambridge research team behind Bridging the ChASM: Creating Accessible Services using Minecraft - a project funded by the Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC) that explores the therapeutic potential of videogames and how they can be used to create more inclusive mental health support.

NOT AN OFFICIAL MINECRAFT SERVICE. NOT APPROVED BY OR ASSOCIATED WITH MOJANG OR MICROSOFT

https://www.playmodeacademy.org
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