Author. Clinician. Streamer. Speaker. Storyteller. Expanding the conversation around video games, mental health, and the power of play — one level at a time.
About Dr. K
Dr. Daniel A. Kaufmann, Ph.D. is an award-winning author, associate professor, licensed counselor, researcher, Twitch streamer, and podcaster who uses insights from video games and fandom to support mental health journeys and help people discover their strengths.
His research on the psychology of player types has been presented internationally and continues to evolve with every new world players can inhabit. He shares his analysis at fan conventions, in published books, and through collaborations with professionals who share a passion for what games teach us about ourselves.
Roles & Titles
- 🏆 Award-Winning Author
- 📚 Associate Professor
- 🧠 Licensed Counselor & Supervision
- 🔍 Researcher
- 🎮 Twitch Streamer | Content Creator
- 🎙️ Podcaster & Public Speaker
Level Up Your Mental Health
Everything under the Dr. Gameology brand is designed to expand the conversation around video games from a positive psychological perspective.
🎮 Gaming & Psychology
Bridging the world of video games with evidence-based mental health insights for players of all types.
🎙️ The Gaming Persona
A podcast exploring psychological connections in the play of video games — streaming now.
📡 Twitch & Community
Streaming regularly as Dr. Gameology, building a community around mental health and gaming culture.
Conference & Keynote Speaking
Dr. Kaufmann is a dynamic and engaging speaker who brings the psychology of gaming to stages around the world. From academic conferences to fan conventions and corporate wellness events, his presentations blend research, storytelling, and humor to connect with diverse audiences.
His internationally presented research on player types and mental health makes him a sought-after voice at the intersection of pop culture and psychology.
Keynote Addresses
Inspiring, research-backed talks for conferences and events of all sizes.
Fan Conventions
Engaging panels and presentations at geek culture and gaming conventions.
Academic Conferences
Peer-reviewed research presented to international scholarly audiences.
Continuing Education Courses
Dr. Kaufmann offers professional continuing education designed for clinicians, counselors, and mental health practitioners who want to integrate gaming and geek culture into their therapeutic practice.
CE Courses for Clinicians
Accredited continuing education units covering gaming psychology, player types, and therapeutic applications.
Geek Therapy Certification
Specialized training to help therapists use fandom, gaming, and pop culture as therapeutic tools.
Gaming & Gambling Training
Focused coursework on identifying, assessing, and treating gaming and gambling concerns in clinical settings.
Connect for Therapy
Who Dr. Kaufmann Works With
- Gamers & esports athletes
- Teens & young adults
- Individuals exploring identity through fandom
- Those navigating gaming or gambling concerns
- Geeks, nerds & pop culture enthusiasts
As a licensed counselor, Dr. Kaufmann brings a uniquely informed perspective to therapy — one that meets clients where they are, including inside the worlds they love most. Whether you're a dedicated gamer, a passionate fan, or someone navigating the intersection of digital life and mental wellness, Dr. Kaufmann offers a safe, strengths-based space to grow.
His approach draws on positive psychology, player type research, and a genuine love for the stories games tell us about ourselves.
Clinical Supervision & Mentorship
Dr. Kaufmann provides clinical supervision for emerging counselors and therapists who want to develop competency in geek-affirming therapy, gaming psychology, and pop culture-informed practice. His supervision model is collaborative, strengths-based, and grounded in real-world clinical experience.
Geek-Affirming Practice
Develop skills to work effectively with clients whose identities are rooted in gaming and fandom.
Strengths-Based Framework
Learn to identify and leverage client strengths revealed through their play and fan engagement.
Ongoing Mentorship
Build a lasting professional relationship with a leader in the field of gaming psychology.
Gaming & Gambling: Clinical Training
Dr. Kaufmann is a recognized expert in the clinical assessment and treatment of gaming and gambling concerns. He offers specialized training for mental health professionals seeking to better understand and serve clients who struggle with problematic gaming or gambling behaviors.
His training programs are grounded in current research, practical tools, and a nuanced understanding of gaming culture — ensuring clinicians can engage clients without stigma or misunderstanding.
Assessment Tools
Evidence-based screening and evaluation frameworks.
Treatment Approaches
Culturally informed interventions for gaming & gambling.
Reducing Stigma
Training that honors gaming culture while addressing harm.
The Gaming Persona Podcast & Twitch
The Gaming Persona Podcast
A show exploring psychological connections in the play of video games. Each episode unpacks how games shape who we are, how we think, and how we grow. Available wherever you listen to podcasts.
Live on Twitch: Dr. Gameology
Dr. Kaufmann streams regularly on Twitch, building a live community around mental health, gaming culture, and the never-ending quest to Level Up Your Mental Health. Join the conversation in real time.
Let's Connect & Continue the Journey
Whether you're looking for a keynote speaker, a clinical supervisor, continuing education, therapy, or just want to geek out about games and mental health — Dr. Kaufmann is ready to connect.
🎤 Book a Speaking Engagement
Conferences, conventions, corporate wellness, and more.
🎓 Enroll in CE Courses
Geek therapy, gaming psychology, and gambling training.
🛋️ Start Therapy or Supervision
Strengths-based, geek-affirming clinical services.
Daniel A. Kaufmann, Ph.D.