Not on the holistic therapy list, however Virtual Reality Simulation therapy is part of the so-called information and communication technologies (ICT’s) environment.
This technique is non-invasive, and it is based on interactive 3D graphics on a virtual reality device which all goggles and a headphone.
Delivered as a set of three-dimensional environments where the client interacts in simulated real time simulation.
The clients brain after a short period of time changes the state of animation to real time and the therapy intervention has a series of positive therapeutic advantages.
As it gives a great degree of privacy in comparison with inducing live exposure and can be used alongside hypnotherapy as a add on tool.
This technology also generates a sense of presence similar to a real situation environment and as a therapist it allows us to reproduce relevant stimulation configurations for client issues.
As a therapist we have to create a safe space and / or appropriate environment using VR therapy, and we have to make sure patients are in good health before using virtual reality.
If they suffer from physical, mental, visual or heart problems, please ask them to consult their doctor.
VR therapy is also excellent in creating stimuli conditions and works in conjunction with hypnotic visualisation, and useful in obtaining “SUDS” responses and valuations as a bio feedback monitor can be attached to the machine.
It also works extremely well with systematic desensitisation, mindfulness, and cognitive restructuring with issues such as:
Acrophobia | Fear of animals | Mindfulness |
Agoraphobia | Fear of the dark | Public speaking |
Anxiety | Fear of driving | Relaxation techniques |
Claustrophobia | Fear of flying | Stress |
The use of Virtual Reality in the treatment of phobias
With virtual reality, phobic patients can reproduce the feared situation and face it themselves. Repeated VR use raises the anxiety threshold and makes you less numb, resulting in a lower incidence of real-life situations. The interaction with the environment and the sense of presence are fundamental components that allow the treatment to be more effective, especially in specific phobias and anxiety.