In an era where mental health struggles are becoming increasingly visible and conversations around them more urgent, a groundbreaking startup is redefining therapy through “Gaming Therapy for Mental Health.” Hero Journey Club, a San Francisco-based company, has secured $14.6 million in funding to expand its unique platform that blends mental health support with beloved video games like Minecraft, Animal Crossing, and Stardew Valley. With its innovative approach, Hero Journey Club is breaking down barriers to mental health care, offering a more accessible and less intimidating alternative to traditional therapy.
Bridging Mental Health and Gaming: The Inspiration Behind Hero Journey Club
Hero Journey Club’s story began during the pandemic, a time when isolation and depression became significant concerns for many. Founder and CEO Brian Chhor was inspired by his own family’s experience during the COVID-19 lockdown. A family member was struggling with mental health challenges, including depression and feelings of isolation, and the family found comfort and connection in video games. Chhor noticed that gaming not only helped them stay connected during difficult times but also provided a safe, non-judgmental space where they could talk about mental health issues.
The idea sparked a pivotal question for Chhor: Could therapy be taken out of the traditional clinic setting and into the spaces where people already feel comfortable, like gaming environments? He wondered whether it was possible to create a community-based mental health platform that could help people heal in an environment where they already feel authentic and safe. Chhor also asked, Could community be the starting point for mental health healing for individuals who are intimidated by the concept of therapy?
With a deep understanding of the barriers that many people face in seeking traditional therapy, particularly those from marginalized communities, Chhor saw gaming as a way to create a space where mental health support could feel less daunting. Alongside mental health clinicians, Chhor co-founded Hero Journey Club to turn his vision into reality—a platform where people could find support while engaging in an activity they love.
The Hero Journey Club Experience: Mental Health Support in Gaming
Hero Journey Club offers an innovative way for individuals to engage in mental health support without stepping into a traditional therapy room. The platform provides virtual, small-group sessions where participants, known as “journeyers,” engage in therapeutic activities while playing video games. The groups consist of four journeyers and are led by licensed and accredited therapists with advanced degrees in counseling, psychology, or a related field. These facilitators guide members through mental health discussions, but the therapeutic process is seamlessly integrated with the gaming environment.
This form of Gaming Therapy for Mental Health stands apart from traditional therapy by meeting participants in spaces where they already feel comfortable. Whether it’s building structures in Minecraft or tending to their island in Animal Crossing, members of Hero Journey Club experience therapeutic techniques in ways that feel natural and engaging. Rather than the typical clinical approach, Gaming Therapy for Mental Health takes advantage of the immersive and collaborative nature of gaming to foster connection, self-exploration, and healing.
