What the Minecraft Program is
We run two Minecraft servers as part of our gaming-informed therapy model. One runs Java Edition with a full modpack. The other runs Bedrock Edition for cross-platform access. Both are private, whitelisted, and clinician-moderated.
This is not a social skills group dressed up as gaming. The server is a genuine digital third space where participants build, problem-solve, and connect at their own pace. Clinicians observe, scaffold, and facilitate, but the environment is participant-led. We structure the server around collaborative infrastructure builds, not competition. PvP is turned off. The focus is on creating something together.
"He logs on to build with the group more than he talks to anyone at school. This is where his friendships actually happen."
Our Servers
Two servers. Two ways to connect.
We run a Java Edition server for the full modded experience and a Bedrock Edition server for cross-platform access. Both are private, safe, and clinician-moderated.
Java Edition Server
ModdedOur primary server runs the All of Create modpack -- a Create mod experience with 50+ addons focused on engineering, automation, and building. Participants design factories, transport systems, and collaborative infrastructure projects.
Bedrock Edition Server
Cross-PlatformOur Bedrock server is for participants who play on console, tablet, or mobile. No mods needed, no special setup. Just join and build. This makes the community accessible regardless of what device you play on.
Current Focus
Infrastructure builds, not battles.
PvP is turned off across both servers. The focus right now is collaborative building. Here is what that looks like in practice.
Collaborative Builds
Shared infrastructure projects where participants contribute at their own pace. Railway networks, shared storage systems, town planning. Each build has natural decision points that practise negotiation, planning, and compromise.
Engineering & Automation (Java)
The All of Create modpack gives participants access to mechanical systems, conveyor belts, trains, and processing chains. Designing a working factory is genuine problem-solving with visible outcomes.
Resource & Project Management
Gathering, allocating, and managing resources across a shared project is executive function in action. Participants learn to plan ahead, coordinate with others, and adapt when things go wrong.
Who this is for
The Minecraft Program works well for young people who are already interested in gaming and benefit from a structured, low-pressure social environment.
Young people who find face-to-face social settings overwhelming
The server provides a way to participate socially without the sensory and performance demands of in-person interaction. Conversations happen alongside shared activity, not as the main event.
Participants who have had negative experiences in competitive gaming
PvP is off. Griefing is not tolerated. The server rules are clear, the moderation is active, and the culture is collaborative. This is a space where everyone builds, nobody destroys.
Young people working on executive function, planning, or collaboration
Building projects require sequencing, resource management, and working alongside others. These skills transfer to real-world contexts because they are practised in a motivating, low-stakes environment.
Clients already engaged in gaming-informed therapy at Estus Health
The server extends your OT sessions into a between-session space where skills can be practised in a natural context. Your clinician can observe progress over time and adjust therapy goals accordingly.
How it works
Getting onto the server is straightforward. Here is the process from start to first login.
Start with an OT session
The Minecraft Program is part of our gaming-informed therapy model. Your clinician will discuss whether it is a good fit during your initial sessions and help set goals that the server environment supports.
Choose your server
If you play Java Edition on PC and want the modded experience, you will join the Java server running All of Create. If you play on console, tablet, mobile, or prefer vanilla Minecraft, you will join the Bedrock server.
Get whitelisted
Both servers are private. Once your clinician confirms you are ready, we will add your gamertag to the whitelist. You will receive the server details, the rules, and a brief orientation.
Build, connect, grow
Log on when you want. Join a build project. Start your own. The server is available between sessions as a space to practise skills and connect with others in the community.
What to expect
Honest answers about how the program runs, so you know exactly what you are signing up for.
Session integration
The server complements your OT sessions. Your clinician may set specific goals for server participation, observe your interactions, or use server activity as a starting point for session conversations.
Moderation and safety
Both servers are whitelisted and monitored. We have clear rules around respectful communication, building etiquette, and server conduct. Breaches are addressed directly with the participant and their family.
Technical setup
For the Java server, you will need to install the All of Create modpack via CurseForge. We provide step-by-step instructions. For the Bedrock server, no special setup is needed -- just enter the server address.
Funding
The Minecraft Program runs as part of your funded OT sessions through NDIS Improved Daily Living (Capacity Building). Server access itself does not have a separate fee.
Frequently asked questions
Ready to join the server?
The Minecraft Program is part of our gaming-informed occupational therapy. Get in touch to start your sessions and get whitelisted.