What is Virtual Reality Immersion Therapy (VRIT)?
Virtual reality (VR) is defined as a set of three-dimensional environments in which a person interacts in real time, with a sense of immersion similar to that of a real situation. Sense of presence and interaction with the environment are the characteristic components of this kind of technology.
In psychotherapy, virtual environments allows us to reproduce relevant simulation configurations for intervention, including the possibility of manipulating certain variables in order to control and adapt the intervention to a client’s individual needs. Therefore, this technology allows us to work in a way which cannot be reproduced in the real situation. It also provides the option of evaluating and intervening with the client “within” a specific situation (for example, in the subway) without the need to leave the session. It allows us to repeat certain conditions (for example, a plane takeoff) as many times as necessary to work on a therapeutic goal (habituation, inhibition of anxious responses, relaxation, etc.). It can also help us to identify the moments at which certain events are the most anxiety provoking.
VRIT is a tool that can complement evidence-based therapy models, such as ExRP and MCBT.
VRIT has been researched and scientifically proven to be an effective technique used in conjunction with other evidenced based therapy models in the treatment of anxiety conditions, trauma, ADHD, autism, depression, and for general relaxation and mindfulness.
*Brain Body Integrative Therapy has the ability to conduct VRIT sessions in-person or even remotely. The VRIT treatment platform has apps available through Google Play and iOS, in which the mobile phone can then be placed in the VR cardboard headset. The therapist can manage the environment and treatment session from afar. Oculus Go is also compatible with the VRIT treatment platform.