Electronic Gaming Therapy History

While serving on active duty with the Navy in Japan as a child psychologist, lieutenant commander Drew C. Messer implemented social skills programs for children with autism spectrum and ADHD disorders at his clinic and in the schools.

The programs used electronic games as the primary activity to engage children in play and social interaction. Multi-player video games requiring cooperation were most effective in facilitating peer interaction and provided a natural setting for skill building and therapy.

As most children naturally gravitate towards video games, Dr. Messer discovered that the process was effective for addressing other behaviors that were of concern to teachers and parents. He has now integrated the natural social aspects of muti-player games into a structured system which greatly benefits the participants.

About Dr. Messer

Drew C. Messer, J.D./Ph.D. is a forensic, pediatric and clinical psychologist in private practice in Williamsville, NY. A 12-year veteran of the Navy, he has experience providing individual, group, marital and family therapy. He recently completed a four-year tour in Okinawa, Japan where he served as a pediatric psychologist. Dr. Messer is the founder of Electronic Gaming Therapy, dedicated to developing creative solutions for better health through electronic gaming.

About CyberJocks

CyberJocks is a specialized technology company that provides electronic gaming entertainment for children and adults in Amherst, New York. The CyberJocks facility offers a family friendly gaming experience that instills healthy competition, fair play, social interaction, and good sportsmanship amongst its players. CyberJocks has a strong relationship with thousands of parents across Western New York, and a commitment to serving the local community.