Bridging the ChASM: Creating Accessible Services using Minecraft

Unlocking the therapeutic power of videogames in counselling and therapy

About this project

The ‘Bridging the ChASM: Creating Accessible Services using Minecraft’ project, spearheaded by the Faculty of Education with AHRC IAA funding, showcases the innovative use of Minecraft as a therapeutic tool within counselling and therapy. Aimed at enhancing the impact of research on utilising videogames for therapeutic purposes, the project commenced with the production of two films demonstrating Minecraft's application in these settings.

The initiative, created by Monique Beckett, Ellie Finch, Ros McLellan and Fiona Peacock, highlights how counselling sessions conducted within Minecraft can be both engaging and therapeutic, thus shifting the focus from viewing children and young people as "hard to reach" to taking responsibility for creating services that are more accessible. Through events and disseminations, including a Cambridge Forum for Children's Emotional Well-being event that took place on 18th May 2024, the project seeks to inform and inspire professionals on the therapeutic potential of videogames like Minecraft.

By sharing insights and outcomes, online and in-person, the team aims to reach a broad audience of professionals, encouraging the adoption of videogame-based therapeutic interventions. The clinical work and research of Monique Beckett and Ellie Finch, who have incorporated Minecraft into their counselling services, underscores the project's potential to revolutionise therapeutic practices, ultimately benefiting the children and young people whose comfort zone is so often the digital world.

Please note

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

Films about ChASM

We have made two films about using Minecraft as a therapeutic tool which you can watch on our YouTube channel:

1. Bridging the ChASM: Creating Accessible Services using Minecraft – An Introduction
2. Bridging the ChASM: Creating Accessible Services using Minecraft – A Guide

ChASM Introduction

The Introductory film explains more about the Bridging the ChASM project and the use of Minecraft in counselling.

ChASM - A guide

The Guide film takes an in-depth look at using Minecraft therapeutically and provides examples of how we have used Minecraft in counselling sessions with individual children and young people, groups and families. Below is a selection of example sessions from the Guide film.

Example Counselling Sessions

07:42 Example: Group Session

In this excerpt from the Bridging the ChASM Guide Film, Ellie Finch and Monique Beckett facilitate a transformative group counselling session in Minecraft (roleplayed with actors). Join them as they help support three children facing social anxiety connect their safe spaces in Minecraft and ultimately come together as they defeat the Ender Dragon! Discover how virtual worlds can foster real-world resilience and teamwork.

11:04 Example: Younger Sibling

In this one-to-one session, Monique Beckett uses Minecraft as a counselling tool to support a young client who is processing complex emotions related to the arrival of a new sibling. The film highlights the flexibility of Minecraft through multiple mediums offering the ability to transition from Minecraft to a sand tray, combining digital and traditional therapeutic resources to explore feelings.

13:48 Example: Family Session

In this family counselling session, Ellie Finch uses Minecraft to help a mother and daughter build their family tree within the game. They choose items from the inventory to represent themselves and family members, placing them in a tree. The daughter picks a TNT block to symbolise herself, while the mother chooses a rose-tinted glass block. This creative use of Minecraft opens up communication, helping them address challenging family issues.

16:14 Example: Bullying

In this one-to-one counselling session, Monique Beckett employs Minecraft as a therapeutic tool to support a client dealing with past bullying experiences. This digital environment provided a platform to fostering the client’s need for empowerment and autonomy. Additionally, the therapy incorporates a traditional technique known as the "Three Houses" exercise, which provides an engaging and accessible way to explore the client's feelings and experiences.

18:21 Example: Parental Separation

In this one-on-one counselling session, Ellie Finch uses Minecraft to support a young person express and process his emotions after parental separation. The session starts with the young person using TNT in the game to vent his anger by blowing things up, followed by initiating a battle with his therapist. To help him explore the emotions beneath his anger, Ellie guides him through an activity called the ‘Anger Iceberg’ which she has adapted for use in Minecraft.

The example counselling sessions are roleplayed with actors.

Related information

Disclaimer

As a practitioner, you are responsible for ensuring that you have the relevant training and practice within your competency and comply with relevant professional standards. Additionally, you must ensure that the resources you use are suitable for your clients and the context in which you work. Your commitment to these principles ensures the best care for your clients and dedication to the field.

Courses and programmes at the Faculty of Education

• PPD Counselling Programme
• MEd in Transforming Practice

Resources

• Monique Beckett is developing a service utilising Minecraft therapeutically at the Atrium Clinic
• Resources, training and consultancy in using videogames therapeutically by Ellie Finch.