Online Role-Play Games in Group Therapy: The Quest for Connection

This article discusses the use of role-play in online therapy groups. It integrates transactional analysis (TA) language and creative techniques to foster group cohesion, intimacy, and growth. Navigating symbolic landscapes, the author shows how a cocreated transitional space enables members to confront and challenge their script beliefs, internally held biases, and limiting behaviors in a safe environment. The work draws from TAgroup development theories, demonstrating how role-play and creative techniques facilitate autonomy and deeper relationships while addressing the complexities and challenges of delivering group therapy online. Using collaborative storytelling, metaphor creation, and creative world building, members are able to begin relating with themselves and each other more authentically.