Chloe Storrey MA, RCC, CCC
Registered Clinical Counsellor
Critical Core Group Therapy
A Therapeutic Role-Playing Experience for Youth
What is Critical Core?
Critical Core is a therapeutic tabletop role-playing game (TTRPG) inspired by games like Dungeons & Dragons. It uses storytelling, imagination, and collaborative play to support kids in building social and emotional skills in a way that feels natural, engaging, and fun.
Developed as an alternative to traditional social skills programs, Critical Core invites youth into a shared fantasy world where they can practice communication, problem-solving, and connection through play. Guided by principles from therapists, educators, and neurodivergent voices, the program emphasizes autonomy, creativity, and meeting each player where they are.
Through gameplay, participants have opportunities to build social confidence, strengthen collaboration and communication skills, increase frustration tolerance, and develop emotional resilience—all while rolling dice, creating characters, and going on adventures together.
Who is this group for?
This group may be a great fit for your teen if they:
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Have little or no experience with role-playing games
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Are neurodivergent (ADHD, Autism, PDA profiles)
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Feel overwhelmed in traditional social settings
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Benefit from structure, flexibility, and choice
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Enjoy imagination, storytelling, or creative play
Cost: $75 per session ($525 total)
Billed at the end of each session
📅 Duration: 7 sessions
Each session is 90 minutes each
Cost and Duration
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Insurance & Reimbursement
This group is led by a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) and may be covered under extended health benefits. Because this is a group counselling service, we recommend checking with your provider to confirm your coverage. You will be billed after each session and be emailed a receipt to submit for insurance purposes. Receipt will say “Group Clinical Counselling Session.”
We also accept Autism Funding Unit (AFU). If you would like to use AFU, please email us upon registration so we can begin the paperwork in advance.
What is Included?
Pre-Group Individual Meeting (15-20 minutes)
Meet with Chloe before the group begins to:
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Ask questions
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Build comfort and familiarity
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Set personalized goals
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Ensure the group is a good fit
Session Zero (Introduction & Preparation)
The first session focuses on:
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Learning how the game works
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Creating characters
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Establishing group expectations
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Building confidence before gameplay begins
6 Therapeutic Gameplay Sessions
Each week includes:
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Guided fantasy adventures
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Skill-building through play
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Ongoing character development
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Supportive facilitation
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Snacks
What Does A Session Look Like?
1. Check-In (10–15 minutes)
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Emotional check-in
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Review of the previous session
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Introduction to the day’s adventure
2. Gameplay (45–60 minutes)
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Facilitated storytelling
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Players take turns making choices
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Practice:
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Communication
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Teamwork
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Problem-solving
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Flexible thinking
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3. Reflection & Wrap-Up (10–15 minutes)
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Reflect on the session
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Highlight strengths and growth
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Preview next week
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this therapy or just a game?
This is a therapeutically-informed group led by a Registered Clinical Counsellor. While it feels like a game, sessions are intentionally designed to support social and emotional development.
What if my teen is anxious or unsure?
That’s completely okay. We offer:
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A pre-group meeting
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A gentle introduction in Session Zero
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Flexible participation
Players are never pressured to participate beyond what feels comfortable.
Does my teen need experience with role-playing games?
No experience is needed. This group is designed for beginners.
What if my child becomes overwhelmed?
Supports include:
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Flexible pacing
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Break options
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Emotional regulation support
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Gentle guidance back into the group
What skills will my youth/teen develop?
Participants often build:
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Confidence
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Social communication skills
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Emotional awareness
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Problem-solving abilities