Therapeutic Applications of Commercially Available Computer Software

Summary Therapeutic applications of computer software in work with individuals and with groups is discussed in this article. The applications described here were used with adolescents at a psychiatric treatment center and involved using commercially available software. An adventure-fantasy game and a fantasy role-playing game are described as helpful in work with individuals. The importance and utilization of fantasy in play is expressed. A mystery computer game is presented as useful when working with groups. The author concludes that computer games have useful therapeutic value if applied by skilled professionals. It is suggested that further research can and should inform improvements to computer-assisted therapy.