EMPOWER PLAY?
WHAT IS
Empower Play is a structured therapeutic tabletop role-playing program supporting:
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Children
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Youth
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Young Adults
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Adults​
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Participants develop emotional regulation, communication skills, perspective-taking, leadership, and confidence in a safe, collaborative environment.
Developed in collaboration with a therapeutic team in Alberta, Empower Play integrates evidence-based practices directly into gameplay. The program is overseen by trained Yarmouth Life Skills group staff.
EMBEDDED BEHAVIOR MODEL
Empower Play is not therapy layered onto a game.
Behavioural strategies are incorporated into the regular mechanics of the game itself.
This means:
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Emotional regulation is practiced through in-game challenges
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Cooperation is required for advancement
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Problem-solving drives story progression
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Perspective-taking occurs naturally through character interaction
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Positive reinforcement is built into the reward system
Skill development happens organically through repetition and engagement — not lectures or worksheets. Learning is most meaningful for our neurodiverse learners when fully engaged with something tactile and stimulating.
THERAPEUTIC FRAMEWORK
Empower Play incorporates:
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Cognitive Behavioral Therapy principles
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Mindfulness strategies
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Restoration Cards for in-session skill reinforcement
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Inspiration Points to reinforce positive social behaviour
Because these elements are embedded into gameplay, participants practice skills in real time within a supportive peer environment.
PROGRAM STRUCTURE
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2 hours of structured gameplay
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30 minutes for check-ins, transitions, and wrap-up
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Total session time: 2.5 hours
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Groups of 5–6 participants
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Placement based on individual need, age, and competency level
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Weekly sessions, 8 session “Seasons”
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Intake process prior to placement
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Individual supports provided as required
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Small groups ensure therapeutic quality, safety, and meaningful peer interaction.
LEADERSHIP & CONFIDENCE BUILDING
Participants may explore:
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Game mastering
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Creative storytelling
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Scenario and world building
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Collaborative design
These opportunities support executive functioning, self-esteem, and leadership development
FAMILY & CAREGIVER INVOLVEMENT
Empower Play supports the entire family system.
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Caregivers may:
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Observe sessions via streaming
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Participate in coaching discussions if agreed upon the additional support cost
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Access psychoeducational materials
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Monitor measurable outcomes using structured tools
