Take this Talks
Supporting Game Devs
Accessible mental health workshops designed by experts for game industry professionals.
About Take This Talks
Take This Talks is a monthly supportive workshop series offered to our community of game professionals impacted by layoffs and industry instability. Designed and facilitated by our team of clinical experts, each workshop focuses on relevant topics and practical skills for managing one’s mental health in the face of structural stressors.
Our inaugural 2026 Talks Series has been made possible through the generosity of Take This Board Member Pete Hines. Interested in ways you and your organization can get involved? Fill out the contact form below!
- Duration: 45min Workshop + 15min Q&A
- Location: Online Via Zoom
- Frequency: Monthly
- Cost: $10 Suggested Donation or Free. Your choice!
Upcoming Workshops
Closing The Loop: Coping With Structural Stress
Monday, November 16th 2026 at 5 PM PDT
Presented by Take This’ Lead Workshop Consultant, Brian Kunde, LCSW
Often, the best way to cope with stress in our lives is to make a change: new behaviors, new environments, new routines, and new problem solving approaches to reduce the stressor’s impact. But what do we do when the source of our stress is out of our direct control, such as hunting for a new job in games or being unable to leave the one we’re in due to instability in the industry? Join Take This for a workshop exploring the neurology behind stress and how that can help us identify effective ways to cope when we can’t directly control the source.
FAQ
How do I attend for free?
Each Talk’s registration page will offer you the choice of a ticket for “$10 Suggested Donation” or “Free”. No special discount codes, emails, vouchers, or other actions required!
Will the workshops be recorded?
To encourage authentic conversations on mental health topics between attendees and facilitators, we will not be recording Take This Talks. If you’re unable to make a specific workshop, we plan to offer repeat sessions of popular topics in the future.
Can I stream the talk to my organization/community/classroom?
We’re happy to explore if streaming a Take This Talk is a fit and determine what an appropriate donation might look like. Reach out to us using the contact form below to get the ball rolling!
How can I support Take This Talks?
We’re always open to new partners and sponsors for Take This Talks. Reach out to us using the contact form below and we’ll get back to you ASAP!
When does registration for each workshop open?
We announce each workshop and open its registration page about four weeks prior to the scheduled day, usually right after the previous workshop has concluded. Watch our social media accounts and website for announcements!
Previous Workshops
Side Quests: Building Good Habits When You’re (Un)Employed
Thursday, October 15, 2026 at 5 PM PDT
Presented by Take This’ Accelerate Program Manager, Dr. Sarah Hays, PsyD
The job search can take a lot out of you. Between applications, interviews, uncertainty, and everyday stressors, it’s easy for healthy habits to fall by the wayside. Join Dr. Sarah Hays for a practical workshop on creating balance, managing stress, and building habits that support your well-being. You’ll leave with tangible strategies you can put into practice, one small change at a time.
Sustainable Design(ers): Managing Burnout for Game Devs
Monday, September 21, 2026 at 5 PM PDT
Presented by Take This’ Senior Researcher, Dr. Elizabeth Kilmer, PhD
Layoffs are major stressor in the game industry today, leading to higher levels of distress for both those seeking work and those taking on increased workloads due to reductions in staff. Burnout is a common outcome of these increased stress levels, reducing the motivation and productivity of even the most experienced game developers. Addressing systemic causes of burnout such as layoffs and industry instability may seem insurmountable, but research has shown there are steps individuals can take to improve their own sustainability in the face of these challenges. Drawing on the most current research, this workshop will equip all developers, especially those impacted by layoffs, with the knowledge, skills, and best practices to tackle burnout.