Virtual Reality Exposure Therapy

Virtual Reality Exposure Therapy (VRET) is a computer-based treatment that is well known for the treatment of phobias and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). VRET uses cutting-edge technology to simulate real-life situations and experiences for patients and works by creating controlled environments where patients can confront their fears and phobias in a safe setting, such as a therapist’s office or at home using teletherapy. Essentially, clients are immersed in a virtual setting or experience they are struggling with.

At Thriving Center of Psychology, we use only the most up-to-date technology, headsets, and software for Virutal Reality. We use platforms that allow our therapists to control the environment so we can tailor treatment to your exact needs. We also have our own 360 cameras to take videos ourselves and immerse clients into real situations that we recorded.

While immersed in virtual environments, clients’ physiological responses are closely monitored by biometric sensors. These sensors can record data such as heart rate, respiration, and skin conductance – all indicators of the client’s level of anxiety. This data is then used to personalize the treatment further to each client’s specific needs, making virtual reality exposure therapy a highly personalized and effective form of treatment.

What Types of Phobias Does Virtual Reality Exposure Therapy Help With?

Virtual Reality Exposure Therapy has been incredibly successful in treating a variety of phobias and specific anxiety disorders. Some of the most common ones are:

• Fear of flying
• Fear of heights
• Fear of public speaking
• Fear of cats or dogs
• Fear of driving
• Fear of bridges
• Fear of spiders
• Fear of the dark