Headspace theater: An innovative method for experiential learning of psychiatric symptomatology using modified role-playing and improvisational theater techniques

objective: Headspace Theater has been developed to allow small group learning of psychiatric conditions by creating roleplay situations in which participants are placed in a scenario that simulates the experience of the condition. Method: The authors conducted a literature review of role-playing techniques, interactive teaching, and experiential education, and performed consultations with experts in improvisational theater, live-action role-playing, and cognitive psychology (constructivism). Results: Participants have universally rated the Headspace Theater experience positively. They affirmed that the simulations evoke emotions and cognitive distortions that create a window into the experience of a patient suffering from psychiatric symptoms. Several participants have also disseminated the techniques and scenarios to their local teaching setting. Conclusions: Headspace Theater may serve as a useful tool for helping various learners to experientially understand what a person may encounter when under the influence of a mental health condition, and thus help shape attitudes and increase empathy toward such people.