Role-Playing Game Professional Training and Workshops by RPG.LLC: The Global Leader Highest Standards in  Comprehensive Holistic Role-Playing Game Professional Training


PHOTO: RPG Therapeutics LLC's Founder and CEO, Hawke Robinson ("Grandfather of Therapeutic Gaming") Training Workshops at Seattle Children's Hospital

FYI: Between January through July 2023, all programs are fully booked. We are currently accepting new clients and trainee wait list applicants. Please go to our Contact Us page, indicating which service(s), product(s), or training you are interested in, and we will add you to the correct wait list.

The next batch of workshop training sessions with new students and wait listed new clients, patients, and students around late Fall 2023. 


TRAINING REGISTRATION IS CURRENTLY CLOSED.

NOTE THAT FIRST AND SECOND EDITION ROLE-PLAYING GAME PROFESSIONAL (RPGP) TRAINING AND ASSOCIATED MATERIALS ARE NOW DEPRECATED. ALL FIRST AND SECOND EDITION TRAINING SESSIONS HAVE ENDED AT ALL ROLE-PLAYING GAME PROFESSIONAL AUTHORIZED SERVICE PROVIDER (RPGP-ASP) LOCATIONS.

THE NEW THIRD EDITION ROLE-PLAYING GAME PROFESSIONAL TRAINING PROGRAM AND ASSOCIATED MATERIALS ARE IN DEVELOPMENT AND ARE SCHEDULED FOR PUBLICATION RELEASES TO BEGIN IN LATE OCTOBER 2023.

REGISTRATION FOR NEW THIRD EDITION TRAINEES CURRENTLY HAS A FULL WAIT LIST.

WE WILL BE RE-OPENING REGISTRATION FOR NEW TRAINEES IN LATE OCTOBER OR EARLY NOVEMBER 2023 FOR THE NEW THIRD EDITION RPGP TRAINING.


If you are looking for RPG Professional Training, and cannot afford the paid training programs through RPG Therapeutics LLC (or other RPGP-ASPs), consider volunteering at the 100% volunteer-run 501(c)3 non-profit RPG Research, and receive their free Role-Playing Game Professional Training which is valid toward meeting many of the Certified Role-Playing Game Professional (CRPGP) requirements.

NOTE: 20% of all RPG.LLC's profits are donated to the 100% volunteer-run 501(c)3 non-profit RPG Research to further their global research and community programs.

  • Introductory presentations are typically 45 to 90 minutes.

  • Comprehensive workshops are typically 2 to 6 hours per session.


Notable Clients Benefiting from RPG.LLC's Programs and Training

  • PBS

  • Navos Mental Health

  • Spokane School District

  • South Valley School District

  • Spark Central

  • Northeast Youth Center

  • Eastern Washington University

  • PAVE

  • Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA)

  • SpoCon

  • WorldCon

  • GenCon

  • Seattle Children's Hospital




PHOTO: Our programs in action for diverse populations with the RPG Mobile Fleet, RPG Bus, RPG Trailers, providing tabletop (TRPG), live-action (LRPG), electronic (ERPG), and hybrid (HRPG), cooperative music and drum circles, and Therapeutic Recreation programs.

RPG Professional Training Workshops Overview (deprecated 2nd Edition)

Our robust holistic approach to Role-Playing Game  Professional Training Workshops for all Professional covers market domains in:

  • Recreation

  • Entertainment

  • Education

  • Healthcare/Therapeutic

  • Professional Development, Executive Teams, etc.

Each workshop session is typically between 3 to 6 hours.

For each workshop, full participation engagement and completion of all workshop requirements includes a Receipt of Workshop Purchase and Proof of  Workshop Completion Documentation.

Completion of all workshops, exams, and other requirements for the Certified Role-playing Game Professional (CRPGP) Full Level of Training, will provide a full certificate for "Certified Role-Playing Game Professional Level X" (CRPG-GM1, CRPG-GM2, etc.).

Learn more about our full Certification program requirements, and lookup current and previously Certified Role-Playing Game Professionals at the Certified RPG Professional website:  www.crpgp.com

IMPORTANT NOTICE, FIRST AND SECOND EDITION ROLE-PLAYING GAME PROFESSIONAL TRAINING IS OFFICIALLY ENDED AS OF JULY 2023.

WE ARE CURRENTLY WORKING ON CONVERTING ALL INFORMATION ON THE WEBSITE, ONLINE LEARNING PLATFORM, TESTING PLATFORM, AND BOOKS TO THE NEW THIRD EDITION CERTIFIED ROLE-PLAYING GAME PROFESSIONAL THIRD EDITION (CRPGP 3E) STANDARDS.

WE ARE ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS TO OUR TRAINING AND TESTING WAIT LIST FOR THIRD EDITION TRAINING HERE:

www.rpgworkshops.com
TRAINING IS SCHEDULED TO RESUME IN OCTOBER 2023


PHOTO: John Welker (VP RPG Research), and Hawke Robinson as guests on Hasbro's Wizards of the Coast Dragon Talk with Greg Tito and Shelly Mazzanoble.


Standard Live In-Person or Online Workshop Pricing (deprecated 2nd Edition)

The following table is an approximate guide, prices may change without notice, see our online store for the latest pricing and any special offers.


PHOTO: Hawke Robinson providing professional training workshops and accredited National Council on Therapeutic Recreation Certification American Therapeuti Recreation Association Continuing Education Units to Washington State Therapeutic Recreation Association convention participants. 


PHOTO: Left-to-Right: Danielle Whitworth (Co-founder of RPG Research), Niklas Anderson (RPG Research's IT Director), and John Welker (Co-Founder and VP, RPG Research). RPG Therapeutics Washington staff and RPG Research's global staff, in partnership with Zombie Orpheus Entertainment and The Fantasy Network, saved New Zealand's WorldCon, and Indiana's GenCon, 2020 conventions from cancellation (during COVID) by hosting more than 20,000 concurrent users on our technology platforms simultaneously! Providing game rooms, workshops, presentations, live streams, audience participation, training, and much more during these global events. This photo shows a tiny snippet of just one of our many control rooms and consoles monitoring the thousands of rooms running on our technology platforms concurrently.



PHOTO: RPG Therapeutics LLC's staff providing accredited CEU training to trainees in Reno Nevada's Peppercorn facilities during a professional conference event.



PHOTO: Close up of some of just a fraction of our online TRPG community sessions, convention event rooms, workshop trainings, and other training rooms on our own self-hosted innovative technology platforms.




PHOTO: RPG Therapeutics LLC's Danielle Whitworth and John Welker providing accredited CEU training in-person at Peppercorn Events Center.



PHOTO: "Grandfather of Therapeutic Gaming", RPG Research's Founder and Executive Directory, Founder and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of RPG Therapeutics LLC, Hawke Robinson, speaking on GenCon TV Live at GenCon in Indianapolis, Indiana for the annual GenCon convention with over 70,000 attendees. This was the first of many appearances on the GenCon TV TableTakes show over the years.

 New Third Edition Role-Playing Game Professional Advancement Outline Released

This is a sneak peak early draft of the newly revised CRPGP training, diploma, and certification professional advancement outline for the Role-Playing Game Professional series. There may be some final little tweaks as we complete the peer review process, but this is about 95+% completed, and will guide all future workshops, books, online learning, and related materials for years to come.

We have switched from a previously more academic-style advancement, to a more "trades" professions style because our decades of research and evidence-in-practice is showing that this has a higher quality of services and safety than the academic approach. This means an increased emphasis on real-world applications of the theories and methodologies as you progress through your training, as a core to the advancement. Rather than just testing your way through in the academic approach, you will get a combination of scholarly understanding with real-world application as you progress, and you must "prove yourself" to advance to the next level, as with the trades professionals.

More updates to this whole page are coming soon as the books are nearing completion.

Your suggestions and feedback are welcomed via our Contact Us page.


Introductory Concepts Presentations (Deprecated Second Edition)

(Not Hands-on, for hands-on experiences see the Workshops section)

Presentation
 Duration
 Overview
 A la carte price
 Bundle price
 % Bundle Savings compared to a la carte option
Introduction to RPG Basics for Non-gamers
 45
$49

Introduction to RPG Professional Applications and Benefits
 60
$99

Introduction to RPG Professionals in Recreational Settings
 60
$99

Introduction to RPG Professionals in Entertainment Settings
 60
$99

Introduction to RPG Professionals in Professional Development and Executive Settings
 60
$99

Introduction to RPG Professionals in Education Settings
 90
$149

Introduction to RPG Professionals in Healthcare and Therapeutic Settings
 90
$149

Introduction to Improving Accessibility for all RPG Formats
 90
$149

Introduction to the 4 RPG Formats
 45
$49

Introduction to RPGs and Small Group Formation, Communication, and Development
 45
$49

Introduction to Optimization of the RPG Experience and Flow State
 90
$149

Introduction to Bleed and Bleed Management in Role-Playing Games
 90
$149

Introduction to RPG Theories and Models
 90
$149

Introduction to the RPG Ability Model
 45
$49

Introduction to RPGs and Interaction Patterns
 45
$49

Introduction to RPGs and DKIW
 90
$149

Introduction to RPGs, Neuroscience, and Cognitive Neuropsychology of Learning Part 1
 45
$49

Introduction to RPGs, Neuroscience, and Cognitive Neuropsychology of Learning Part 2
 45
$49

Introduction to RPGs, Neuroscience, and Cognitive Neuropsychology of Learning Part 3
 45
$49

Introduction to the Pros and Cons of Each RPG Format: Tabletop, Live-action, Electronic, and Hybrid
 90
$149

Introduction to Role-Playing Games and The Transtheoretical Model of Change
 90
$149

Introduction to RPG Activity Analysis
 90
$149

Introduction to RPG Task Analysis
 90
$149

Introduction to Role-Playing Game Complexity, Accessibility, Risk, and Barriers to Entry
 90
$149

Introduction to the Observed Immersion Scale and Role-Playing Games
 90
 Note there are prerequisites before signing up for this course.
 $149

Introduction to Role-Playing Games and Incarcerated Populations
 90
$149

Introduction to the Real-World Risks of Live-Streaming Front-Page Personalities with TRPG, and How to Avoid the Pitfalls
 90
 Based on real-world incidents that lead to horrible harassment and even death threats.
 $149

Introduction to How Role-playing Games Help Neurodiverse Populations
 90
$149

Introduction to Role-Playing Games (RPG) as Intervention Modalities to Achieve Therapeutic & Educational Goals for Individuals and Groups from the Therapeutic Recreation Perspective.
 90
$149

Introduction to Role-playing Games Used as Educational and Therapeutic Tool for Youth and Adults
 90
$149

Introduction to RPG Assessment Process
 90
$149

Introduction to Role-Playing Games, Play Styles, Player Archetypes and Stereotypes, and Addressing Disruptive Types
 90
$149

Introduction to the Considerations and Caveats When Considering  Separating Groups by Play Styles
 45
$49

Improving Access to Tabletop Role-Playing Games by Overcoming High Barriers to Introductory
 90
$149

Introduction to RPG Professionalism Part 1
 90
$149

Introduction to RPG Professionalism Part 2
 90
$149

Introduction to Role-Playing Games for At-Risk and Higher-Risk Populations Part 1
 90
$149

Introduction to A Brief List of Considerations  for At-Risk Populations and Role-Playing Games in Community Settings
 45
$49

Introduction to Brain Injury Patients and Using Role-Playing Games to Aid in the Recovery Process Part 1
 90
$149

Introduction to Brain Injury Patients and Using Role-Playing Games to Aid in the Recovery Process Part 2
 90
$149

An Introduction to Role-Playing Game History Part 1 (1970s)
 90
$149

An Introduction to Role-Playing Game History Part 2 (1980s
 90
$149

An Introduction to Role-Playing Game History Part 3 (1990s)
 90
$149

An Introduction to Role-Playing Game History Part 4 (2000-2009)
 90
$149

An Introduction to Role-Playing Game History Part 5 (2010-2019)
 90
$149

An Introduction to Role-Playing Game History - The Defamation of Gaming and Gamers, and The Lingering Inculcated Stigma
 90
$149

An Introduction to the Potential Benefits and Deficits of Role-Playing Games
 90
$149

An Introduction to Optimizing the RPG Experience Part 2: Environment Variables
 90
$149

An Introduction to Optimizing the RPG Experience Part 3: RPGs and Technologies Recommendations and Caveats
 90
$149

An Introduction Serious Games as a Complementary Tool for Social Skill Development in Young People: Role-Playing Games
 90
$149

Introduction to Role-Playing Games: Individual and Group Identity and Paradoxes
 90
$149

Introduction to Effective Communication Styles and Role-Playing Games
 45
$49

Introduction to Role-Playing Game Accessibility: Aphantasia
 45
$49

Introduction to Role-Playing Game Accessibility: Mobility, Wheelchair Access, Muscular Dystrophy, Cerebral Palsy, and Related Populations
 90
$149

Introduction to Role-Playing Game Accessibility: Deaf & Hard-of-hearing
 45
$49

Introduction to Role-Playing Game Accessibility: Visually Impaired and Blind
 45
$49

Introduction to Role-Playing Game Accessibility:  Grasping and Related
 45
$49

Introduction to Role-Playing Game Accessibility: Brain-Computer Interface RPG Part 1
 90
$149

Introduction to Role-Playing Game Accessibility: Sensory Stimuli Considerations
 45
$49

Introduction to Role-Playing Games Across Six Continents Considerations and Adaptations
 90
$149

Introduction to Pros and Cons of "Old School" Versus "New School" TRPG Systems and Settings
 90
$149

Introduction to the Assessment of Role-Playing Games as an Instructional Technique Within the Constraints of a University Academic Setting from the Cognitive Neropsychology Perspective
 90
$149

Introduction to Cultivating Long-term Role-Playing Gaming Groups and Campaigns
 90
$149

Introduction to the Psychology of Gamers & Hackers
 90
$149

Introduction to House Rules: Some Love, Others Hate
 90
$149

Introduction to Meaningful Religions for Your Game
 90
$149

Introduction to Gaming with Young Children
 90
$149

Introduction to Using Role-Playing Games to Help Develop Frustration Tolerance, Perseverence, Competence, Confidence, Resilience, and Grit Part 1
 90
$149

Introduction to Using Role-Playing Games to Help Develop Frustration Tolerance, Perseverence, Competence, Confidence, Resilience, and Grit Part 2
 90
$149

Introduction to Using Role-Playing Games to Help Develop Frustration Tolerance, Perseverence, Competence, Confidence, Resilience, and Grit Part 3
 90
$149

Introduction to Using Role-Playing Games to Help Develop Frustration Tolerance, Perseverence, Competence, Confidence, Resilience, and Grit Part 4
 90
$149

Introduction to Role-Playing Games and Impulse-Control, Turn-Taking, Delayed Gratification, Longitudinal Thinking, ADHD, & Executive Function Part 1
 90
$149

Introduction to Role-Playing Games and Impulse-Control, Turn-Taking, Delayed Gratification, Longitudinal Thinking, ADHD, & Executive Function Part 2
 90
$149

Introduction to The Game Master's Kit
 90
$149

Introduction to Role-Playing Games and Game Master Tips and Tricks Part 1
 45
$49

Introduction to Role-Playing Games and Game Master Tips and Tricks Part 2
 45
$49

Introduction to Role-Playing Games and Game Master Tips and Tricks Part 3
 45
$49

Introduction to Role-Playing Games and Game Master Tips and Tricks Part 4
 45
$49

Introduction to Role-Playing Games and Game Master Tips and Tricks Part 5
 45
$49

Introduction to Role-Playing Games and Game Master Tips and Tricks Part 6
 45
$49



Workshops (deprecated 2nd edition)

  • Hands-on Workshops

  •   2 to 6 hours per workshop (duration varies depending on topics, RPG format, online or in-person, and size of training group)

Package Number of Sessions Package Overview A la carte price Bundle Price % Bundle Savings compared to a la carte option
Single Session Workshop 1 a la carte, single workshop session $300 n/a n/a
Bundle 6 6 Workshop bundle of 6 sessions
 $1,800 $1,600 10% savings
Bundle 12 12 Workshop bundle of 12 sessions
 $3,600 $3,000 15% savings
Bundle 18 18 Workshop bundle of 18 sessions
 $5,400 $4,300 20% savings
Bundle 26 (1/2 of Full Program) 26 Half of Full Program: 26 session program (1/2 of the Full Program), includes student workbook, practicum, peer review sessions, between session assignments and scoring, 1 final exam, and other requirements towards certification included in the pricing, $10,000 $7,500 25% savings
Bundle 52 (Full Program) 52 52 sessions and including Full Certification Program, 2 final exams, multiple practicum and reviews, peer review sessions, between-session assignments and scoring, online learning platform use, and all other requirements toward full certification,
 $20,000 $14,000 30% savings


















Typical Workshop Outline (deprecated 2nd edition)

Full participation and engagement in each workshop typically includes the following:

  • 3 to 6 hours per session.

  • Receipt of workshop purchase and scheduling

  • Course Overview

  • Quiz Baseline

  • Applied hands-on

  • Research, Theory, & Evidence-in practice Lecture & Discussion

  • Professional Tips & Tricks

  • Quiz Retake

  • Q&A

  • Proof of Workshop Completion Documentation

  • Between-session assignment tasks (typically 5 to 30 minutes) (for multi-session trainees)

NOTE: Final exams, practicum evaluation, and other requirements for the Certified Role-Playing Game Professionals Certifications are not included in the individual a la carte workshop pricing. 

If you would like the full Certified Role-playing Game Professional certification (CRPGP), there are additional requirements before you may take the final exam. See the Certified Role-Playing Game Professional website for details: www.crpgp.com

RPG.Education Self-paced Online Learning Standard Pricing (deprecated 2nd edition)

Self-paced RPG.Education Online Asynchronous Self-paced learning options using our Learning Management System (LMS) at www.rpgeducation.com

Some of the courses may apply toward the Level One CRPGP Certification requirements. A single course is equivalent to one of our live workshops in material covered, but does not include as much of the hands-on experience or peer review options available through the workshops.

  • <100-level basic introductory courses: $25-$99/course

  • 100-level (Level One CRPGP content):  $100/course (65% savings over a la carte live workshop)

  • 200-level (Level Two CRPGP content): $125/course

  • 300-level (Level Three CRPGP content): $150/course

  • 400-level (Level Four CRPGP content): $175/course

  • 500-level (Level Five CRPGP content): $200/course

  • 600-level (Level Six CRPGP content): $225/course
    700-level (Level Seven CRPGP content): $250/course

  • 800-level (Level Eight CRPGP content): $275/course

  • 900-level (Level Nine CRPGP content): $295/course

  • 1000 to 2000-level (Level Ten through 20 of CRPGP content): $300/course 

Full CRPGP Training Program Level Overview (deprecated 2nd edition)

We offer 20 levels of intensive training programs. Each Full CRPGP Program Level includes the following:

  • Pass mandatory background check

  • 52 Sessions of in-class training (3 to 6 hours training per session, average 4 hours) (Minimum 200 hours)

  • Complete all theory training requirements (26 chapters per level)

  • Complete all in-class applied gaming sessions (6-12 different game systems per level of training)

  • Complete all self-study assignments (typically 15-90 minutes of work per session) (Minimum 40 self-study assignments)

  • Complete all journal entries

  • Complete all written/recorded essays

  • Complete all observer, player, and GM logs and evaluations (Minimum 40 sessions, minimum 200 hours)

  • Complete all approved volunteer hours requirements "giving back to the community" (this is very flexible) (Minimum 100 hours)

  • Complete all supervised, peer-reviewed lab and/or community sessions (Minimum 130 hours)

  • Complete all the above training, volunteering, and peer-review hours before eligible to take final exam (2 passed exams required per level)

  • Complete all session/section online Learning Management System (LMS) open workbook quizzes with 100% score before eligible to take final exam

  • Total course and experience hours per level (minimum): Ranges between 300 to 1,000 hours per CRPGP level. Level 1 = 630 hours

  • Complete final exam (closed book) with 90% or higher, to receive certification and online verification listing as a Certified Role-Playing Game Professional (CRPGP).

Learn More About the RPG Therapeutics Unique Gold Standard Approach to Role-Playing Game Professionals Training and Certification

Note that Continuing Education Unites (CEUs) may be available from some of the workshop sessions for some certified/licenses professionals.

Please Contact Us for further details.

Goal Training Options:

Well-rounded Training Levels,
intensive workshops,
or  "a la carte" workshops.
Your choice.

We offer 20+ RPG Professional training levels, as well as 1-off specializations.

See the Outline of Role-Playing Game Professional Advancement here:  www.crpgp.com

You can either go through our proven level progression series of programs, or if you have more experience and just need specific areas filled, attend specific training series and workshops a la carte.

Fast Foundation Building: Intensive Workshops Approach (deprecated 2nd edition)

If you are already a professional in your field of choice, and you are looking to evaluate whether role-playing games would be a good fit to add to your professional development, the best approach is to take one of our 1-day Intensive Introductory Workshops For Professionals first. 

Fundamental Intensive Workshops list (1 full day each)

  • Intro 1 for all professionals & laypersons (must take this workshop before taking the other more specialized workshops in this series)

  • Intro 2 for recreational professionals

  • Intro 3 for recreational & entertainment professionals

  • Intro 4 for educational professionals

  • Intro 5 for therapeutic & medical healthcare professionals

Novice Intensive Workshops list (2-5 half-days each)

  • Novice 1 for all professionals & laypersons (must take this workshop before taking the other more specialized workshops in this series)

  • Novice 2 for recreational professionals

  • Novice 3 for recreational & entertainment professionals

  • Novice 4 for educational professionals

  • Novice 5 for therapeutic & medical healthcare professionals

Intermediate Intensive Workshops list (2-5 full-days each)

  • Intermediate 1 for all professionals & laypersons (must take this workshop before taking the other more specialized workshops in this series)

  • Intermediate 2 for recreational professionals

  • Intermediate 3 for recreational & entertainment professionals

  • Intermediate 4 for educational professionals

  • Intermediate 5 for therapeutic & medical healthcare professionals

Intermediate Intensive Workshops list (3-5 full-days each)

  • Intermediate 1 for all professionals & laypersons (must take this workshop before taking the other more specialized workshops in this series)

  • Intermediate 2 for recreational professionals

  • Intermediate 3 for recreational & entertainment professionals

  • Intermediate 4 for educational professionals

  • Intermediate 5 for therapeutic & medical healthcare professionals

Advanced Intensive Workshops list (5 full-days each)

  • Advanced 1 for all professionals & laypersons (must take this workshop before taking the other more specialized workshops in this series)

  • Advanced 2 for recreational professionals

  • Advanced 3 for recreational & entertainment professionals

  • Advanced 4 for educational professionals

  • Advanced 5 for therapeutic & medical healthcare professionals

Get the Pieces Quickly: A la carte Specialty Workshops (deprecated 2nd edition)

<details coming soon!>

Facilities specialization:

  • <more details coming soon>

Population specialization:

  • ADHD for educators & therapists

  • Anxiety & panic disorders, including agoraphobia and social anxiety disorders, for therapists.

  • ASD/PDD for educators & therapists

  • Brain Injury patients for educators, medical, therapists, & other healthcare professionals

  • Depression for therapists

  • <more coming soon>


The Most Well-Rounded Approach: Training Levels (deprecated 2nd edition)

If you are wanting to start training from scratch along one of the 5 pathways (layperson, recreational professional, entertainment professional, educational professional, or therapeutic professional), and have the time and resources, following this approach for "levels" of training will provide the most well-rounded professionals that really want to Subject Matter Experts (SME)s on the topic of role-playing games and their best applications.

Categorizing the training levels grouped according to the National Institute of Health's (NIH) Proficiency Scale is illustrated in the diagrams below.

Source: https://hr.nih.gov/working-nih/competencies/competencies-proficiency-scale

They are rated on a scale of 1 through 5:

1. Fundamental Awareness (basic knowledge).

  • Focus is on learning.

  • Common knowledge or understanding of the basic techniques and concepts. 

2. Novice (limited experience).

  • Focus on developing through on-the-job experience;

  • Level of experience gained in a classroom and/or experimental scenarios or as a trainee on-the-job. Expected to need help when performing this skill.

  • Understand and can discuss terminology, concepts, principles and issues related to this competency;

  • Utilize the full range of reference and resource materials in this competency.

3. Intermediate (practical application).

Able to successfully complete tasks in this competency as requested. Help from an expert may be required from time to time, but you can usually perform the skill independently.

  • Focus is on applying and enhancing knowledge or skill;

  • Have applied this competency to situations occasionally while needing minimal guidance to perform successfully;

  • Understand and can discuss the application and implications of changes to processes, policies, and procedures in this area.

4. Advanced (applied theory).

You can perform the actions associated with this skill without assistance. You are certainly recognized within your immediate organization as "a person to ask" when difficult questions arise regarding this skill.

  • Focus is on broad organizational/professional issues;

  • Have consistently provided practical/relevant ideas and perspectives on process or practice improvements which may easily be implemented;

  • Capable of coaching others in the application of this competency by translating complex nuances relating to this competency into easy to understand terms;

  • Participate in senior level discussions regarding this competency;

  • Assist in the development of reference and resource materials in this competency.

5. Expert (recognized authority)

Known as an expert in this area. You can provide guidance, troubleshoot and answer questions related to this area of expertise and the field where the skill is used.

  • Focus is strategic;

  • Demonstrated consistent excellence in applying this competency across multiple projects and/or organizations;

  • Considered the “go to” person in this area within NIH and/or outside organizations;

  • Create new applications for and/or lead the development of reference and resource materials for this competency;

  • Able to diagram or explain the relevant process elements and issues in relation to organizational issues and trends in sufficient detail during discussions and presentations, to foster a greater understanding among internal and external colleagues and constituents.

Note that this is a grossly oversimplified summary, and that all 5 proficiency levels may be achieved in some areas withing a single RPG Professional training level. But these diagrams should help people gain some sense of the relative expertise in the progression overall.

Fundamental (Basic Knowledge) (deprecated 2nd edition)

Beginning Laypersons & All Beginning Professionals (levels 1-3)


Novice (Limited Experience) (deprecated 2nd edition)

Intermediate Laypersons, & Novice Recreational & Entertainment professionals (levels 4-6).



Intermediate (Practical Application & Theory) (deprecated 2nd edition)

RPG businesses for Recreational & Entertainment Professionals (levels 7-9)


Expert (Recognized Authority) (deprecated 2nd edition)

Trainer for Laypersons as well as Recreational & Entertainment Professionals (level 10)


Advanced (Applied Theory) (deprecated 2nd edition)

Training for Educational Professionals (levels 11-13)


Advanced (Applied Theory) (deprecated 2nd edition)

Training for Therapeutic Professionals (levels 15-18).


Expert (Recognized Authority) (deprecated 2nd edition)

Trainer for all Professionals (level 20).


Overview of Some Key Topics and Areas of Knowledge (deprecated 2nd edition)

  • Code of Conduct

  • Consent

  • Context

  • Introduction to The RPG Model(s) and 4 Formats

  • IF: CYOA: (for example, something like "Abominable Snowman") and other IF: for example "Chooseable Path: To Be Or Not To Be" and/or others

  • Intro to APIE, Assessment

  • GIAT

  • CARBE

  • Play Styles, Player Preferences, Stereotypes, and Archetypes

  • RPG Format HRPG: SAB1: example like "Firetop Mountain"

  • TRPG Core Concepts Part 1

  • History of RPG and Moral Panic

  • Assignments: BFRPG SAM1 "Primus Casus: Iter Ad Lacum" (journey to the dungeon)"

  • SAM2 "Secundus Casus: Carcere Serpere (dungeon crawl)"

  • Introduction to Audio RPGs.

  • APIE: Planning

  • Gaming preparation and hygiene

  • Introduction to TRPG Format and Core Concepts Part 1

  • Intro to TR Ability Model and RPG Ability Model

  • Barriers to Entry

  • ntroductory Play,

  • Neuroscience of Learning

  • BFRPG Solo Adventures 1 and 2 Discussion

  • BFRPG: Group Adventure 1: GM's First Adventure ("ludum domini primi coetus casus: alta in cuniculis" (Game Master's First Group Adventure: Deep in the Tunnels"))

  • APIE: Implementation

  • Introduction to TRPG Format & Core Concepts Part 2

  • Differences in effects of "Old School" and "New School" RPGs

  • BFRPG Group Adventure 2: GM's Second Adventure ("Ludum Domini Secundi Coetus Valebat: Non Omnes Vagantes Aberrarunt. " (Game Master's Second Group Adventure: Not all those who wander have lost their way." ))

  • APIE: Evaluation

  • Participant Feedback Forms

  • Introduction to Bleed, BFRPG Group Adventure 3 (along the lines of "The Search of Grimfall" or similar) & related topics

  • APIE: Documentation

  • Introduction to TRPG Format & Core Concepts Part 3

  • Basic Bleed management Voicing part 1

  • BFRPG Group Adventure 4 (along the lines of A Temple of Slides and Stairs" or similar) and related topics

  • Introduction to Gaming Accessibility

  • Turn Management Tips and Tricks

  • Voicing part 2

  • Accessibility: Aphantasia and similar

  • BFRPG Group Adventure 5 part 1 "Vault of Thaire" or simiilar.

  • Use of RPGs for Entertainment Goals

  • The Open Science by Design approach

  • RPG Research Workflow

  • RPG Therapeutics LLC Workflow

  • "Good" and "Bad" forms of Escape

  • The LRPG Format, Pros and Cons of LRPG

  • NTYE Adventures 1 , 2, & 3.

  • Effects of technologies on TRPG experiences

  • VTTs

  • Introduction to Labyrinth RPG (or similar).

  • Electronic RPGs ERPG Format Part 1 (NWN Prologue Tutorial or similar)

  • Group Dynamics

  • Peer Review

  • Accessibility in Gaming Continues

  • Game Violence,

  • ERPG Format Part 2 (NWN Group adventure part 1)

  • Screen Time

  • xR, AR, MR, VR, etc.

  • Accessibility and technology

  • BCI

  • Gamification

  • Health-focused games

  • ERPG Format Part 3 (NWN group adventure part 2)

  • Interaction Patterns

  • Gamer Floaters

  • Ethical Game Design

  • Electronic GM Tools for ERPGsd

  • Introduction to states of immersion and  Flow State for individuals and groups, as well as neural synchronization

  • Recent D&D (Saltmarsh or similar) part 1

  • Bleed Management and Flow Management Continued: D&D (Saltmarsh or similar) part 2

  • GM Styles & Beneficial Illusions

  • RPGs and Activity Interaction Patterns

  • D&D (Saltmarsh or similar) part 3

  • TR Enhanced RPG Experience

  • D&D (Saltmarsh or similar) Part 4

  • Behavior Guidance Rules

  • Middle-earth RPGs part 1: AiMe/LotR (Eves or similar)

  • Behavior Guidance Rules Continued Middle-earth RPGs part 1: TOR (Eves or similar)

  • Behavior Guidance Rules Continued

  • DWAITS part 1 (Arrowdown or similar)

  • Risk Factors

  • Explanatory Styles

  • DWAITS part 2 (Arrowdown or similar)

  • Hybrid RPGs

  • Communication Styles

  • Dark Crystal (or similar) Introduction

  • Use of RPGs for Educational Goals

  • Resilience

  • TPK, Existential Crisis, and Processing Discussions

  • Top Secret RPG part 1 or similar

  • Resilience

  • Effects of Isolation

  • Grit

  • Top Secret RPG part 2 or similar

  • Use of RPGs for Therapeutic Goals

  • Effects of Social Isolation

  • Professional and Legal Issues

  • Individual and Group Identity and Belonging

  • Program Participant Discharge/transition planning

  • Top Secret RPG part 3 or similar

  • Applied Gaming Session: "Golden Sky Stories"

  • "Kids on Bikes", or similar Introduction

  • Completing Remaining Requirements

  • Preparing for the Final Exam.

RPG.LLC Certified Role-Playing Game Professional Level 1 Full Certification Example Completion Requirements (deprecated 2nd edition)

  • Pass mandatory background check

  • Complete all theory training requirements

  • Complete all in-class applied gaming sessions (6-12 games per level of training)

  • Complete all self-study assignments (typically 15-90 minutes of work per week)

  • Complete all journal entries

  • Complete all written/recorded essays

  • Complete all observer, player, and GM logs and evaluations

  • Complete all volunteer hours requirements "giving back to the community" (this is very flexible)

  • Complete all supervised, peer-reviewed, community sessions

  • Complete all training, volunteering, and peer-review hours before eligible to take final exam

  • Minimum in-class training hours: 208 (104x2)

  • Minimum Supervised & Peer-reviewed In-Lab Applied Gaming Hours: 130 (52x2.5)

  • Minimum Supervised Community Volunteering/Applied Gaming Hours: 96 (12x8)

  • Complete all section and practice quizzes with 100% score.

  • Complete required course practicum/paper/program with 80% or higher score.

  • Complete final exam with 90% or higher, to receive diploma, and online verification listing.

  • Maintain relevance with Continuing Education Units (CEUs) through Approved Service Providers, approved volunteering, events, workshops, and other approves methods.

  • Grand total of the typical total minimum hours of training and applied (or volunteering) before eligible to take the final exam to receive the full level 1 certification (other levels may vary in requirements): 434 hours

Attendees must check-in 15 minutes before class begins. If a trainee is running a game as GM, then they need to check in 30 minutes before.

Typical training session outline:

  • Take baseline quiz on the session's topics.
  • Applied Gaming Part 1
  • Theory and Evidence-in-Practice Lecture & Discussion Session
  • Pro Tips & Tricks Session
  • Applied Gaming Part 2
  • Re-take Quiz Evaluation
  • Weekly Tasks/Assignments