The Game That
Goes There^®

“I often encounter the lay misconception, that discussing difficult subjects “puts ideas” in people’s heads and might even push them to act on unhealthy impulses. The inadvertent result of this active avoidance is that opportunities to share, connect, and problem solve together, go amiss, and do little to reduce the internal pressure and sense of isolation teens in treatment often share. When used therapeutically, The Game That Goes There® provides a structured and safe opportunity to lean into these exact problems and concerns teenagers and young adults often face, so that we – adults, parents, teachers etc. – don’t have to wait for a topic to come up or hope our kids initiate the conversation. We are then able to shed light on these shadows and taboos, making them less scary, more predictable and safer to courageously engage with.”

Anat ‘Nati’ Geva, PsyD, LP
Clinical lead, Trainer and Primary Supervisor
HealthONE Crisis Assessment Team (HCAT)
The Medical Center of Aurora, Behavioral Health and Wellness Center

“The game! Where do I begin?

I have two copies, one for work (I am a school counselor) and one for home. I’ve also gifted the game to others! I love the game for so many reasons. As a school counselor, it is a great way to get conversations started. I can adapt it for large classroom lessons where students will throw a ball to one another and ask questions, or we play the traditional way in small groups in my office. I’ve seen kids who would think they have nothing in common relate to one another with this game. It frequently ends up in folks sharing stories and experiences with one another, and sometimes they are coming from those we would never expect!”

Amanda M Kearns, MS., CTRS-E
School Counselor
The John Hancock Demonstration Schools, Middle School Campus

“In my work as a therapist, I see the need teens have for more connectedness with their families and peer groups. They want real conversations about difficult topics to bring the closeness and security they want and need. It can be hard to know where to begin. The Game That Goes There is a fantastic tool that promotes and facilitates these types of conversations. The game guides players to a deeper level of connection by inviting dialogue about difficult topics, encouraging self-discovery and vulnerability that doesn’t feel so exposing because everyone is sharing during the process of play. All while having fun! I highly recommend this game!”

Susan Caso, MA, LPC
Boulder Family Counseling, PLLC
Mental Health Director, The LIV Project

“After playing the game and breaking down the stigma around mental illness, my friend felt encouraged to start therapy.”

Chantal, 22

“The workshop was incredible and will be used with students in individual and group settings. Tess, you were such a great facilitator. I loved learning a bout the game that goes there and all the opportunities to connect with our team. It felts so supportive and fun!”

Aspen Hope

“So appreciative of this workshop Honestly it was an important reminder of why we are doing the jobs we’re doing and why it matters – really grateful for the feeling of being re-inspired. Also appreciated the chance to get creative and play with my coworkers.”

Aspen Hope

“The Game That Goes There is such a versatile tool for engaging students in meaningful and sometimes difficult conversations. I love that it can start off light and fun, then naturally move into deeper discussion. Using art, music, and the game’s specific cards to spark conversation is such a targeted and creative approach. I’m especially excited about the idea of creating a group poem with the prompt.”

Aspen Hope