Dr. Kelli Dunlap

Kelli has a doctorate in clinical psychology and a masters in game design, and is internationally know for her work at the intersection of psychology and games. In addition to being a practicing therapist, she is an award-winning game designer and has consulted on game projects with organizations including the National Institute for Mental Health, Vox Media, and 343 Industries. She brings her experience as a graduate school professor to all her workshops, ensuring the information is well-researched, enagaing, and applicable.

Dr. Sarah Hays

Sarah Hays (she/her) is a doctor of counseling psychology and licensed mental health counselor in Washington State. Her passion for serving the gaming community has been clear since before she started working for Take This in 2018 as a clinical contributor, and focusing heavily on her passion of delivering live, educational content like workshops, panels, and co-hosting Take This’ Twitch stream. Never satisfied with limiting herself to serving one part of the gaming community, Dr. Hays is an outpatient therapist for the game-based mental health nonprofit Game to Grow, specializing in working with games industry, ADHD, and LGBTQIA+ populations. She also serves as the Director of Programming for Queer Women of Esports, is an advisor for the Games Hotline, and is one of the editors of the groundbreaking book A Clinician’s Guide to Geek Therapy. She has authored a number of other works, including a chapter in Video Games and Well-Being. Sarah identifies as a White, queer, cisgender, neurodivergent woman.

Facilitator: Dr. Rachel Kowert

Rachel has a PhD in psychology and MA in counseling psychology. She is a world-renowned researcher on the uses and effects of digital games, including their impact on physical, social, and psychological well-being. An award-winning author, she has published a variety of books and scientific articles relating to the psychology of games and, more recently, the relationship between games and mental health specifically. In 2021, Dr. Kowert was chosen as a member of The Game Awards Future Class, representing the best and brightest of the future of video games.

Brian Kunde, LCSW

Brian is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over a decade of experience in mental healthcare, youth services, and LGBTQIA+ advocacy in the game industry. He’s worked with GaymerX to develop staff training and inclusive spaces since their inaugural event in 2013. Brian currently serves as GaymerX’s Culture & Operations Director, guiding their programming and providing consulting on LGBTQIA+ issues for game developers. He also works as a private practice therapist in Texas specializing in LGBTQIA+ issues, geek culture and adolescents. Brian is a white, cisgender, LGBTQIA+, and neurodivergent man.