Virtual Reality Exposure Therapy

Virtual Reality (VR) technology is an exciting tool that helps increase the effectiveness of psychotherapy. VR Exposure Therapy uses revolutionary technology to create a real sense of presence through immersive simulations of real-world environments.

VR Exposure Therapy allows participants to enter situations that they would typically find difficult and learn psychological techniques to overcome difficulties, whilst working alongside an experienced counsellor, in a safe space. This treatment technique is completely safe, and allows for gradual and controlled exposure so your counsellor can tailor the treatment to your individual needs. They will receive real-time responses during the therapy, allowing for instant feedback and quicker results.

A virtual reality headset fits over your head and covers your eyes. Displays and lenses in the headset give you a clear 3D view of a virtual environment. As you move your head to look to one side, up, or down, what you see changes to reflect your new position and point of view, like in real life. You can be in a sitting or standing position and may wear glasses or contacts during the experience. Your counsellor will ensure that you have free space around you to move your arms safely, without hitting anything.

Virtual reality feels real and is immersive because you are surrounded by the visual images and cannot see anything else. Sound effects and other sensory inputs may be used to increase the authenticity of the virtual experience.

Your counsellor will use a computer where they can monitor and control what you are seeing and doing in the virtual environment. The experience can be tailored and tweaked to create suitable experiences.

For example, in a virtual environment for treating public speaking anxiety, your counsellor can adjust the number of audience members and how they react to a client’s speech including their movements, verbal responses, and applause.