Course curriculum

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

  1. About this course

  2. An introduction to Minecraft and its therapeutic benefits

  3. Integrating Minecraft into therapy sessions

  4. Which edition of Minecraft?

  5. Creating worlds

  6. Playing together

About this course

  • £180.00
  • 125 lessons
  • 2.5 hours of video content
  • Course length: Approx. 6 hours
  • Access duration: 6 months (after this time you can purchase membership for ongoing access to the course materials and community benefits)
  • Requirements: You'll need access to a Minecraft license to complete this course (the cost of this is not included in the course but the course does contain guidance on purchasing licenses)

Pricing options

Organisations wishing to train a team please contact Ellie for bespoke package prices for the Level 1 and Level 2 trainings ([email protected])

Reviews

5 star rating

The best CPD I have completed this year!

Danielle Harris

Fantastic and valuable training. The training is thoughtful, well laid out and easy to access. It has pushed me out of my comfort zone in a supportive and encouraging way, and I cannot wait to use Minecraft in practice.

Fantastic and valuable training. The training is thoughtful, well laid out and easy to access. It has pushed me out of my comfort zone in a supportive and encouraging way, and I cannot wait to use Minecraft in practice.

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5 star rating

This really is an amazing course

Lesley Simpson-Gray

This course has helped me SO much and I'm definitely more confident with Minecraft now. The course is absolutely packed with helpful tips and practical lessons as well as ongoing help from Ellie. I still jump back into lessons I've completed alrea...

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This course has helped me SO much and I'm definitely more confident with Minecraft now. The course is absolutely packed with helpful tips and practical lessons as well as ongoing help from Ellie. I still jump back into lessons I've completed already to refresh my memory - it's such a great resource. Highly recommended!

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5 star rating

I am so glad I enrolled in this course!

Kellie Hansen

Ellie's course clearly outlined step by step everything needed to understand the different ways to use Minecraft therapeutically, how to manage the technology side of things and helped build confidence as the course went along. I would highly reco...

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Ellie's course clearly outlined step by step everything needed to understand the different ways to use Minecraft therapeutically, how to manage the technology side of things and helped build confidence as the course went along. I would highly recommend this course.

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5 star rating

Engaging and informative course!

Natalie Coyne

I found this course full of new and interesting content. For someone that already uses Minecraft therapeutically, it included everything I needed. I will definitely be going back over the course again to re-watch some essential, simple videos. The...

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I found this course full of new and interesting content. For someone that already uses Minecraft therapeutically, it included everything I needed. I will definitely be going back over the course again to re-watch some essential, simple videos. The course was engaging, did not cause me to switch off at all and was full of Minecraft colour and fun. I'd definitely recommend getting this course as an necessary tool kit for using Minecraft with children and young people.

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5 star rating

An informative and interesting training program using Minecraft as a therapeutic tool

Jonathan Stott

The training felt fun and light with a great range of activities to keep engaged. The interface was intuitive and flowed smoothly. It was easy to see progress and understand how to navigate through the training. I liked the quizzes - pitched at a ...

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The training felt fun and light with a great range of activities to keep engaged. The interface was intuitive and flowed smoothly. It was easy to see progress and understand how to navigate through the training. I liked the quizzes - pitched at a good level with some surprising answers. It was helpful to understand Ellie's journey to Minecraft and I loved her avatar and Minecraft lab. The levels of novelty and attention to detail made working through it a delight.

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5 star rating

Level 1 training completed!

Hannah Y

I have managed to overcome, with Ellie's support, the minefield that is Minecraft!

I have managed to overcome, with Ellie's support, the minefield that is Minecraft!

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5 star rating

Such a fun course

Dan Higgs

Absolutely amazing course. I had watched my sons playing Minecraft for ages before I took this course, and I always thought I would never grasp it, but this course has enabled me to really get the basics which in turn has made me feel more confide...

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Absolutely amazing course. I had watched my sons playing Minecraft for ages before I took this course, and I always thought I would never grasp it, but this course has enabled me to really get the basics which in turn has made me feel more confident about using it with clients.

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5 star rating

A great introduction to the video game therapy and therapy with Minecraft

Oleksii Sukhorukov from HealGame Ukraine

I think Ellie did a great job with this course! I've found out important things about client safety, technical elements, and especially about the creative part there which has already helped me to create my own worlds in Minecraft.

I think Ellie did a great job with this course! I've found out important things about client safety, technical elements, and especially about the creative part there which has already helped me to create my own worlds in Minecraft.

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5 star rating

Off to a good start

Louise Holdway

A gentle, supportive and clear introduction

A gentle, supportive and clear introduction

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5 star rating

Really informative

Sian Jenner

I found this module really informative as a non gamer and therapist as to how I may use as a therapeutic tool. As a dramatherapist, it is based to be client centered and enables the client to lead. A creative and informative tool into the clients ...

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I found this module really informative as a non gamer and therapist as to how I may use as a therapeutic tool. As a dramatherapist, it is based to be client centered and enables the client to lead. A creative and informative tool into the clients world.

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More reviews!

5 star rating

Highly recommended!

Helen T

Ellie is a knowledgeable trainer who puts "first timers" at ease and the course content is clear and easy to follow.

Ellie is a knowledgeable trainer who puts "first timers" at ease and the course content is clear and easy to follow.

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5 star rating

Healing together, block by block

Joe Grove

When I first heard about this course, I was intrigued. For someone who has grown up with Minecraft and has spent many hours within the games creative mode, I was curious to see how you could use it as a therapeutic tool. I myself, have used the ...

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When I first heard about this course, I was intrigued. For someone who has grown up with Minecraft and has spent many hours within the games creative mode, I was curious to see how you could use it as a therapeutic tool. I myself, have used the game to create fantasy worlds and even build sculptures/buildings that represented my feelings and emotions. So you can see, why I wanted to discover how it could be utilised within a therapeutic space. Being both a visual and hands on learner, I was happy with having videos and activities to complete. Like the segment on creating you own skin (Costume) and building your own safe place within the world Ellie had created for this course. I enjoyed this segment because I liked seeing other people's skins and safe place designs on Padlet. Despite my knowledge on the game already, I was surprised to learn new insights into how to use the various different mechanics from all versions of the game. I personally, learnt the most about the education version. Which taught me, how to spawn and edit an NPCs (Non playable characters) so they could speak and interact with me and a potential the client. I also enjoyed the segment on a iceberg, due to how you could create the iceberg in real time along side a client. Whether you are new to the game or have played it before, Ellie has created a great course to teach you how to not only play the game, but create a safe and constructive environment, that younger clients will understand and freely to express themselves more visually.

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5 star rating

Really great and comprehensive course

Emily Chalder

This was a great course which clearly covered things to be aware of in terms of confidentiality, GDPR and technical aspects of hosting a session through Minecraft which was incredibly helpful. It was also fun thinking about different ways the game...

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This was a great course which clearly covered things to be aware of in terms of confidentiality, GDPR and technical aspects of hosting a session through Minecraft which was incredibly helpful. It was also fun thinking about different ways the game could be used in a therapeutic setting and was great for generating ideas.

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Testimonials

“I highly recommend Ellie Finch as a consultant in Minecraft for Therapists. She has expert knowledge of working with clients in Minecraft and shares her experiences in a really engaging way with enthusiasm and also patience for those of us that are not as used to working and playing in Minecraft. She has a clear way of explaining the necessary steps to ensure a secure setting for working in this software and does so with a warm and enthusiastic touch. I am now happily trying out Minecraft as I can really see how this can be vital resource for working with clients in all age groups, but especially young people. An innovative training for a cutting edge way of working therapeutically.”

Dr Rachael Klug, PHD, MSc, MBACP, Director ACTO with responsibility for CYP

““Ellie is an enthusiastic and warm presenter. She has instilled me with confidence to continue my journey into therapeutic gaming.””

Monique

“"Ellie’s warmth and modesty automatically brings an ease and relaxation when under her consultation. Ellie makes things simple, provides baby steps and invites you to play/learn with her. You are left feeling more confident, less intimidated and even catch the spark of passion that she playfully carries for the endless possibilities of working with Minecraft."”

Natalie, Child and Adolescent Counsellor

““Really informative webinar. I’ve come from knowing nothing to feeling like I could at least tentatively try. Minecraft looks like such an amazing tool to use with children! And Ellie teaches you how to use it safely.””

Jo, Counsellor

““The enthusiasm Ellie brings to her webinars is just infectious and makes them thoroughly enjoyable and exciting! This was the second webinar of Ellie’s I have now had the pleasure of attending on using Minecraft therapeutically, both were full of information to digest and really interesting.””

Tara Bratsas, Counselling Student

““Ellie’s enthusiasm is contagious and the best training I’ve attended in a long time. Thank you Ellie!””

Attendee of 'Getting Tech-Savvy in Minecraft'

““Helped resource me to join with my clients to take a deeper dive into the Minecraft world!””

Kelly, Counsellor and Play Therapist

““Ellie is an enthusiastic, passionate and knowledgeable trainer. Great fun!””

Neil, Art Therapist and Clinical Supervisor

““Very enthusiastic and knowledgeable delivery that helped me feel more confident about starting out. I've now downloaded Minecraft myself and hope to be able to use it therapeutically. Recommended!””

Sheena, Trainee Child & Adolescent Psychoanalytic Psychotherapist

“Ellie was really friendly, helpful and made the training really accessible. It was clear she has a wealth of experience and insight, but was able to communicate it in a straightforward, and not overwhelming way. The training was great and am excited to trial this way of working as part of my ongoing practice.”

Ed Magee

Learning outcomes

  • Understand and explain the potential benefits of using Minecraft as a therapeutic tool

  • Gain confidence in integrating Minecraft into therapy sessions

  • Understand the differences between the different Minecraft editions (Bedrock, Java and Education)

  • Learn how to create worlds for your clients and use key controls and commands

  • Identify and address how to safeguard your clients and protect their data in Minecraft

  • Discover a range of activities that can be integrated in to sessions

  • Be aware of common problems and their solutions

  • Demonstrate your learning in a fun and immersive final assessment

  • Connect with other practitioners using Minecraft as a therapeutic tool and share your learning journey

Article in BACP CYP & Family Journal

The BACP CYP & Families Journal featured an article on how Ellie Finch uses Minecraft therapeutically

Minecraft Education blog

Minecraft Education published a blog about Ellie Finch's work using Minecraft as a therapeutic tool.

FAQ

  • How long will the course take to complete?

    The approximate time it can take to complete this course is 6 hours. However, this depends on how many editions of Minecraft you are using or planning to use. This is because the course provides instructions for each of the three editions of Minecraft (Bedrock, Java and Education). Therefore, if you are only using/planning to use one of these editions you may complete the course more quickly. The course allows you to skip content that focuses on the editions you are not using/planning to use.

  • Why is access for 6 months?

    During the first 6 months after purchasing this course you have access to community benefits for free. Community benefits include: • Access to regular online Q&A sessions. • Access to regularly updated course materials. • Access to a student community. After 6 months you have the option of continuing to access the community. The price for community membership is currently £60 per year.

  • What does the community membership include?

    Community benefits include: • Access to regular online Q&A sessions. • Access to regularly updated course materials. • Access to a student community. After 6 months you have the option of continuing to access the community. The price for community membership is currently £60 per year.

  • How much does community membership cost after the initial free 6 months?

    £60 per year

  • Can I go straight on to Level 2 without completing Level 1?

    It is mandatory to have completed Level 1 before going on to Level 2. This is because Level 2 is a live, immersive training where you will be in Minecraft with a small group of students. It's important that you have the fundamentals skills in place before embarking on the Level 2 training. In addition the Level 1 course acts as an ongoing resource library that you can refer back to for guidance on specific tasks such as exporting and importing worlds, setting up worlds for your clients and how to use specific activities.

  • Are you teaching a specific approach?

    No, this training is created to enable you to integrate your own therapeutic approach in using Minecraft as a therapeutic tool.

  • Is this a certification, qualification or accreditation?

    No. Ellie Finch Counselling Consultancy and Training Ltd does not take responsibility for User's practice and does not certify, qualify, or accredit practitioners. Courses are offered to provide additional tools within the remit of User's profession’s competencies, licensure and registration. Please see terms and conditions for further information: https://www.iubenda.com/terms-and-conditions/30255221

  • Is this an official Minecraft product?

    No. This course is NOT AN OFFICIAL MINECRAFT PRODUCT. NOT APPROVED BY OR ASSOCIATED WITH MOJANG OR MICROSOFT. You will also need to use this phrase on all your informational and promotional materials about your service in accordance with Minecraft's terms.

  • Can Minecraft be used non-directively/directively?

    You can take a non-directive or directive approach in Minecraft. Non-directive/client-centered is the core of my own approach and Minecraft lends itself well to this. If you are observing the client play (rather than being in the game yourself) then it feels very much like observing the client make a sandtray or use drawing/painting etc - with you using your usual observation and reflective skills. If you are in the game yourself you can be incredibly client-led - often I'm in the game simply as an observer, sometimes the client asks me to play a game with them like hide and seek, or they might ask me to help to build something with them. I sometimes incorporate a few structured/directive activities (i.e. asking the client to create a safe place near the start of the work) if I think it will support the work. With the course I've aimed to support practitioners to incorporate their own approach to Minecraft so there is no one set way of doing things. That is, it’s not an approach-based training and the courses are offered to provide additional tools within the remit of User's profession’s competencies, licensure and registration. In this Level 1 course I have included a number of activities and ideas for how you can utilise Minecraft therapeutically. Many of the activities have grown organically out of the client-centered work I have done with the children, adults and families I see in my clinical practice.

  • Does this course cover the basics of how to play Minecraft?

    This course guides you step by step through how to use Minecraft as a therapeutic tool, including the key controls and commands needed, how to set up worlds, how to set up a Realm, and how to save and back-up worlds. There is an interactive final assessment where you get to demonstrate your new found skills.

  • Can Minecraft be used therapeutically with adults as well as children?

    Yes, absolutely. Minecraft can be used with children, young people, adults, couples, families and groups. The key is meeting clients in their comfort zone – so if they play Minecraft and are open to using it therapeutically then using Minecraft is possible. Note that it is your responsibility to ensure you are practicing within your competency, licensure and registration.

  • Can Minecraft be used with individuals and groups?

    Yes, Minecraft can be used with individuals, dyads and groups including families. Note that it is your responsibility to ensure you are practicing within your competency, licensure and registration.

  • If I just do the level 1, I can still use Minecraft in my work?

    It is your responsibility to ensure you are practicing within your competency, licensure and registration. So, if you felt that Level 1 was sufficient for you to be practicing within your competency, licensure and registration then that would be fine. However, people find doing the Level 2 - as it is a live, small group, experiential training - supports them to feel confident in using Minecraft therapeutically. My full terms and conditions are available here: https://www.iubenda.com/terms-and-conditions/30255221

  • How long does each therapy session in Minecraft take?

    This training is created to enable you to integrate your own therapeutic approach in using Minecraft as a therapeutic tool. Therefore, it would be down to you to decide how long a session should be. However, I would recommend allowing yourself more time either side of a session for prep/saving worlds and you may also need to factor in some additional time or sessions for technical preparation with your clients.

  • Do we need parent consent?

    This would depend on the usual requirements for parental consent that apply to your client group. In addition, you will also need to gain consent from the client and/or their parent (depending on their age/capacity) re. the use of the resource taking in to account how you manage their data, the location of servers etc. This is covered in the Level 1 course.

  • Is supervision required?

    Your standard supervision requirements (to meet your licensure/registration body's guidelines) would apply here. But you may also need/chose to seek out specialist supervision with a supervisor/supervision group that works in this field. I may have some supervision slots coming up in the near future. Let me know if you would like to be added to the waiting list for supervision.

Get started on your therapeutic adventures in Minecraft today