Participants information
Session Timetable
When sessions are scehduled they will be shown here, on the Facebook page and on the Discord server, which you can get access to by sending us an email at . Or drop us a message on the Facebook page.
Session Requirements
Sessions will run on a range of platforms and use a number of different applications. This will allow us to provide sessions for a larger number of people. One thing that will be common to all sessions is a headset and microphone. Although text chat is possible we feel the most will be gained from sessions if people can chat easily and quickly.
PC sessions will use Steam as the main gaming platform and Discord as the main chat/streaming forum. This means that you will need both of the installed on the device you are going to be using to participate. They are available for Windows, Mac, Linux, AppleOS and Android. Where games allow it, users on other Launchers, such as GOG, Gamepass, Geforce Now and Epic will be able to join sessions. For a PC-based session you may not need to own the game if it available on Steam Remote Play Together. This is a system that allows the facilitator to effectively share their copy of the game with you. Please see Point 3 in the Q&A below.
PlayStation sessions will use the PlayStation Network and will using both the PS4 and the PS5, depending on the games. You will need to own the game on PlayStation.
Xbox sessions will use the Gamepass Network and will using Xbox One and Xbox Series X consoles, depending on the games. You will need to own the game on XBox.
Nintendo Switch sessions will use the Nintendo Switch Online service. You will need to own the game on Switch.
Q&A
So.....you probably have some questions?
- What will actually happen in the sessions? You will be in the session with 3 other people who want to talk about the same topic. One of them will be a faciltitator, someone with some knowledge and experience in the topic and who is there to make sure the sessions runs smoothly. You know, to help people to engage and chat, and to make sure it's done in a respectful and supportive way. They'll also have knowledge of the game and the platform being used to help you to get set-up and going if you need it.
The other particpants will be like you, people wanting to chat to about something that is an issue for them. The idea is that not only will you have supportive people to chat to, but you'll be able to provide support and advice to them from your own experiences.
But it is all meant to be very relaxed and casual, so if sometimes you don't feel lile chatting and just want to run around in the game and have fun, that's okay as well. - Is this all I need to take care of my mental well-being? Hmmmm, maybe yes, maybe no. Although our facilitators have training and/or experience in mental health first aid, these sessions are not intended as a replacement for appropriate support for people with chronic mental health issues. But they might supplement or complement other services. They might even help prevent issues from becoming chronic by giving people an avenue to engage that otherwise might not exist. And what our facilitators will be able to do, is direct you to other sources of information, advice and support as needed.
- But I don’t game. What about me? – You don’t need to have any gaming experience. You just need to be willing to give it a go. All of our facilitators are experienced and enthusiastic gamers, who will guide any people new to gaming. And that is the beauty of many coop games, there are a number of roles a players can fill. And there are many different types of coop game, they aren’t all about shooting things. The facilitator will have access to a range of games and will choose the most appropriate based on the desires and needs of the group.
And if you really don't want to game, we are looking at ways for you to log in a session, watch the action and join in the chat. - I don’t own a gaming PC or console….or any games. Can I still be involved? Yep, for sure. Some sessions will only require the facilitator to own the game and have an appropriate PC to play it on. The other participants will be able to play on just about any device that can connect to the internet. Laptop, basic PC, mobile phone. Without getting too technical, the game will run on the facilitators PC and you’ll be sent a link to join the game. You’ll need to download/install an app and then you’ll be able to join the game. All the heavy processing is being done by the facilitators PC, your device just needs to be able to display it. Oh, you will need a headset and mic for communication with your team mates. But your mobile headset is more than good enough.
- But isn’t on-line gaming toxic? How is that going to help my mental wellbeing? Yes, sadly there are toxic elements in online gaming. But this happens mainly in what is called MMO gaming, standing for Massive Multiplayer Online gaming. This is where you play with, and against, other people you might not know. This is called Player vs Player or PvP. Our sessions are private server sessions only open to the players in your session and only by invite. And your opponents, if it is that kind of game, are generated by the game itself. This is called Player vs Environment or PvE.
- Can I drop in and drop out of sessions? – Again, yes and no. Each individual session will last between 1 and 2 hours and, because you are generally working as a team to achieve something, it is preferable if you can stay for the whole session. But the reality is that phones ring, internet connections drop out and visitors arrive at your front door unexpected. So sometimes you will drop out. Your facilitator can also guide this as well. There are a range of games that are specifically designed for people to drop in and out of without losing the thread of the game.
- How many sessions can I play? As many as you need. Some facilitators will choose games that take a long time to complete. And we mean a loooonnng time. One thing that will be available is tabletop games, like Dungeons and Dragons, and some of these games can take months to complete.
- So I have to commit for months??? Not at all. You are also welcome to just drop in to a session as you feel the need. Had a tough day at work? Just drop into a session of Left4Dead2™ and shoot some zombies. Need to chat about an issue that baby is having? Help some other parents plan a bank heist in Pay Day 2™ while you pick their brains. Or if you just want to chill, join in and help with the farming in Stardew Valley™.
- I’m in! How do I find a session that suits me? Easy peasy. We aren't quite ready yet but once we are all set up you'll be able to join our Discord server, follow us on Facebook or send us an email to let us know what you are after. We are also planning to have a calendar of all of our available sessions on this website. See you soon hopefully!
- Hmmm, I'm sure I have more questions but I can't think of them right now - No problem. You can email us at . Or drop us a message on the Facebook page.