UNDERSTANDING THE ROLE SORT:

The Role Sort is a drama therapy–based tool derived from Role Theory and Method. Role cards can be used within a “hero’s journey” framework — exploring who I am, who I want to be, what’s in my way, and what might help me. It invites clients to identify and reflect on the many roles they play in life — such as caregiver, critic, artist, or healer — each representing a facet of identity and behavior. Clinically, it serves as an assessment, diagnostic, and case conceptualization tool, illuminating patterns, strengths, challenges, and areas for growth. It can also be integrated into a creative or storytelling process, using movement, dialogue, image-making, and narrative to bring roles to life. The Role Sort is highly flexible — there’s no one right way to use it, and you really can’t go wrong — it meets each client or group where they are and invites authentic discovery and insight as a creative and adaptable intervention. These role cards below represent common archetypes found in Role Theory. Don’t forget to add your own!