Exeter University Cedar Create: Exploring the Integration of Creative Digital Tools and Videogames in Therapy - 13th November 2025 (live, online)

In an increasingly digital world, therapists are discovering innovative ways to create accessible and engaging services for children, young people and families. Digital tools - including digital sandtrays and videogames - offer new opportunities to connect with clients in meaningful ways, supporting therapeutic work in both face-to-face and online settings. This interactive course explores how these tools can be integrated into practice to enhance engagement and therapeutic outcomes. 

This training is designed for systemic practitioners and family therapists. It will also be useful for anyone that works therapeutically with children and families.

Teaching will be delivered by Ellie Finch, MA MBACP (Accred), who specialises in working with neurodivergent clients and parents and siblings of children with disabilities and complex medical conditions. She has a worked in a range of settings including CAMHS, schools, private practice, and local and national charities (including Relate, The Children’s Society and ChildLine). She has developed an innovative online service engaging children in counselling through videogames, such as Minecraft, and other digital tools.

To book your place visit https://store.exeter.ac.uk/conferences-and-events/faculty-of-health-and-life-sciences/psychology/exploring-the-integration-of-creative-digital-tools-and-videogames-in-therapy-13th-november-2025?token=2c618fb9abc084cc3a0fd6eb2fd8f1e8

Ellie Finch

Ellie Finch, MA MBACP (Accred), is a clinical supervisor, counsellor, and social worker specialising in support for neurodivergent clients and families of children with additional needs or complex conditions.

Her work is rooted in a neurodiversity-affirming approach, which values neurodivergence as a natural variation in human experience and focuses on building supportive, respectful environments rather than 'fixing' difference.

Ellie is known for her innovative use of creative digital tools and videogames like Minecraft in therapy to create accessible, engaging support. She is founder of PlayMode Academy, a non-profit social venture that trains professionals in the therapeutic use of creative digital tools.

PlayMode® Academy is part of Ellie Finch Counselling, Consultancy and Training Ltd, a non-profit company limited by guarantee (a structure often used by social ventures in the UK).

Ellie is also part of the University of Cambridge research team behind Bridging the ChASM: Creating Accessible Services using Minecraft - a project funded by the Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC) that explores the therapeutic potential of videogames and how they can be used to create more inclusive mental health support.

NOT AN OFFICIAL MINECRAFT SERVICE. NOT APPROVED BY OR ASSOCIATED WITH MOJANG OR MICROSOFT

https://www.playmodeacademy.org
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Onlinevents: Therapeutic Adventures in Minecraft! 12 September 2025 (live online - recording available)

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Using Minecraft as a Therapeutic Tool: Level 1 - Self-paced, Online Course