Coaching Through Story

coaching-scaffolded TTRPGs for confidence, life skills, and belonging

What We Do

Host tabletop role-playing games (TTRPGs) like Dungeons & Dragons for neurodivergent young people as a launch pad for learning, skill development, and confidence building.

In these guided hybrid (in person in Montreal, virtual everywhere else) games, small groups of 3-5 players take on characters, make decisions, and co-create stories together. Through play, they practice real-world skills in a space that feels natural, inclusive, and fun.

The game becomes a mirror - a place to explore social connection, communication, emotional regulation, executive function, self identity and advocacy, and belonging without fear of getting it wrong.

Follow up individual 1:1 or 1:2 ([“player:coach"] OR [player:coach and game master] depending on need/preference) coaching sessions to unpack skills used in the game and how to apply these in out-of-game contexts.

Who It’s For

Autistic and neurodivergent kids who love stories, games, and imagination and are open to playing coaching scaffolded TTRPGs.

Kids who struggle with social skills, social anxiety, communication, self-confidence, emotional regulation, implusivity, goal setting and attainment.

Parents seeking a growth-focused, affirming environment for their child to practice social-emotional skills.

Who We Are

Gillian Nycum Certified coach, educator, and founder of Authentic Front, exploring emotionally intelligent, neuro-affirming leadership and learning.

Henry Rose Game master and storyteller who brings insight, humour, and lived experience to the table.

Together, we create a space where neurodivergent kids can feel seen, capable, and inspired to grow — on their own terms.

Why It Works

TTRPGs are a powerful social-emotional learning tool, especially for neurodivergent youth. The rules, structure, and creativity of the game create a safe sandbox for developing confidence and life skills that transfer far beyond the table.

Kids build:

• Social connection: listening, collaboration, turn-taking, and empathy through shared storytelling

• Executive function: planning, organization, flexibility, and persistence

• Communication: language, imagination, and storytelling confidence

• Emotional regulation: managing frustration, uncertainty, and big emotions

• Self-identity & self-advocacy: exploring who they are through the characters they play

• Belonging: finding a place where different ways of thinking are valued