VI Gaming Support Team

Gaming disorder, similar to gambling disorder, can be understood as a “silent addiction.”

Unlike substance use disorders, it is unlikely to result in homelessness and public petty crimes to “fuel the habit”. Gaming can fulfill unmet needs of self-worth, status, and social acceptance in the virtual world, where a person may not feel these needs can be met in the physical world. Who doesn’t want to feel valued? Important? Appreciated? Having a team rely on your presence and skill can be exhilarating, in the board room, on the job site, and in a virtual world!

Being a proficient substance abuse counsellor, or mental health clinician, does not automatically credential a professional with the expertise of understanding the uniqueness of people who fall into a gaming disorder. Yes, behavioural disorders share many similarities, but gaming disorder is unique in the combination of needs that it can meet and the variety in which it can meet them.

At VI Gaming Support, we care about people’s wellbeing, sense of belonging, efficacy, and desire to be part of a loving caring community.

Gaming disorder can be a significant barrier to living such a fulfilling life. Yes, there are friends and a deep sense of community in the virtual world. But nothing replaces a hug from someone who loves you, or the feeling that the person sitting next to you genuinely cares about your wellbeing. It’s palpable! Gaming disorder is tearing families apart, destroying relationships and eating away at the souls of our most vulnerable friends and family, young and old alike.

That’s we are dedicated in supporting people to restore their sense of individual and communal health and wellbeing. We believe that by providing services that rejuvenate their spirit, we can support people to reset, regroup, and restore their lives.

"Well structured and balanced training, combining videos, tools and decks. In-depth and thorough, without being overwhelming. Evidenced-based. Very relational and grounded in compassion and understanding. I highly recommend this training." –Karen Hlady

INTENTA GRADUATE 2020

Karen Hlady

Karen has over 25 years experience working with youth and families, from addictions to foster care to alternative education. She understands the fragility of mental health and precariousness of social acceptance with our young folks today.

Many youth and young adults lack the skills to navigate the physical world but find comfort and collegiality in the virtual world. By spending time daily walking her dogs in the woods, playing hockey when she can, Karen allows herself the time and space required to dedicate herself to supporting young people in developing the skills, confidence, and resilience they need to navigate today’s complex world.

Holding a master’s degree in leadership, and soon to be accredited with an International Gaming Disorder Certification, Karen is committed to helping people find balance between the virtual and physical worlds.

INTENTA GRADUATE 2020

Tracy Tsui

Tracy has over 10 years of experience working in mental health and substance use, supporting those with behavioural addictions, and advocating for marginalized populations.

As a former gamer, she understands the pull video games have over people. Addiction, whether substance-related or behavioural, is a form of connection. Tracy believes that reconnection with ourselves, each other, and the world around us can help to create more balanced lives. She gains balance in her life by spending time outdoors hiking with her dog, camping, and kayaking.

Tracy has a master’s degree in counselling, and is a Registered Clinical Counsellor with the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors, and soon to be accredited with an International Gaming Disorder Certification. Tracy aims to work collaboratively with people to create a safe place people heal, as well as decrease the stigma of seeking support.

"This is a comprehensive training that is built around the gamer's needs. I would highly recommend this training to other clinicians." –Tracy Tsui

VI Gaming Support Team

Gaming disorder, similar to gambling disorder, can be understood as a “silent addiction.”

At VI Gaming Support, we care about people’s wellbeing, sense of belonging, efficacy, and desire to be part of a loving caring community.

INTENTA GRADUATE 2020

Karen Hlady

INTENTA GRADUATE 2020

Tracy Tsui

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