On the surface, dice, character sheets, and fantasy maps may seem an unlikely tool for mental health support. But at the Orlando VA Healthcare System (OVAHCS), a growing group of Veterans are finding connection, creativity, and healing through the REVEAL Program, a unique initiative that uses tabletop role-playing games, including Dungeons & Dragons, to support emotional wellness.
REVEAL, which stands for Reimagining Veterans’ Emotions, Actions, and Life Skills, was launched in April 2023 through the Orlando VA’s Innovation Project. The program was developed and is led by Navy Veteran Victor Mitchell, who serves as the Access Program Support Assistant for Mental Health Leadership at the Lake Nona campus.
“I’ve been a gamer for more than 40 years, and gaming helped pull me out of a very dark place after my own traumatic experiences,” Mitchell shared.
Mitchell went on to say, “I realized it wasn’t just about playing a game, it was about reconnecting, using creativity, and breaking out of isolation. I wanted to bring that same opportunity to other Veterans.”
The program meets on the second and fourth Friday of each month at 1 p.m. (except holidays) in the Mental Health Conference Room, 2J714A. During sessions, Veterans participate in an ongoing Dungeons & Dragons campaign designed to encourage teamwork, communication, and problem-solving in a supportive, low-pressure environment.
“Tabletop role-playing allows Veterans to practice skills like anger management, empathy, and decision-making without feeling like they’re in a traditional therapy group,” Mitchell explained. “It’s authentic, it’s engaging, and it meets Veterans where they are.”
For U.S. Army Veteran Jennifer Chester, who served during the Cold War era from 1985 to 1987, the program provides camaraderie and creative freedom.
“There’s a lot of laughter and teamwork,” Chester said. “You get to be creative, try new things, and just enjoy being around other Veterans. It’s fun, and there’s really no downside; you don’t have to spend money, and you’ve got nothing to lose.”
Air Force Veteran Brandon Sittler, who served from 2002 to 2008, joined after seeing a flyer at the VA. He says the program offers both enjoyment and connection.
Sittler expresses, “I was looking for a group of like-minded people, especially fellow Veterans.”
“It’s creative, it’s social, and it’s good for mental health. I’d tell other Veterans to come give it a try,” Sittler added.
Mitchell hopes REVEAL can serve as a model for other VA facilities nationwide.
“Gaming breaks down barriers,” Mitchell said. “It creates community without forcing Veterans to relive painful experiences. If other facilities listen to their Veterans and build programs like this, they’ll see the impact.”
Veterans interested in learning more about the REVEAL Program may contact Victor Mitchell at 407-631-2340 or Peer Support Lead Jimmy Deloney at 407-840-8620.
PHOTO: Veterans participating in the Orlando VA Healthcare System’s REVEAL Program gather around the table during a Dungeons & Dragons session, using storytelling, teamwork, and creativity to build connection and support mental wellness in a welcoming, peer-driven environment.
Joseph Nunez is the Public Affairs Specialist for Orlando VA Healthcare System in Central Florida.
