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Gomez Bergin AD, Allison AM, Hazell CM. Understanding Public Perceptions of Virtual Reality Psychological Therapy Using the Attitudes Towards Virtual Reality Therapy (AVRT) Scale: Mixed Methods Development Study. JMIR Ment Health 2024; 11:e48537. [PMID: 38214958 PMCID: PMC10818238 DOI: 10.2196/48537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Revised: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Virtual reality (VR) psychological therapy has the potential to increase access to evidence-based mental health interventions by automating their delivery while maintaining outcomes. However, it is unclear whether these more automated therapies are acceptable to potential users of mental health services. OBJECTIVE The main aim of this study was to develop a new, validated questionnaire to measure public perceptions of VR therapy (VRT) guided by a virtual coach. We also aimed to explore these perceptions in depth and test how aspects such as familiarity with VR and mental health are associated with these perceptions, using both quantitative and qualitative approaches. METHODS We used a cross-sectional mixed methods design and conducted an exploratory factor analysis of a questionnaire that we developed, the Attitudes Towards Virtual Reality Therapy (AVRT) Scale, and a qualitative content analysis of the data collected through free-text responses during completion of the questionnaire. RESULTS We received 295 responses and identified 4 factors within the AVRT Scale, including attitudes toward VRT, expectation of presence, preference for VRT, and cost-effectiveness. We found that being more familiar with VR was correlated with more positive attitudes toward VRT (factor 1), a higher expectation of presence (factor 2), a preference for VRT over face-to-face therapy (factor 3), and a belief that VRT is cost-effective (factor 4). Qualitative data supported the factors we identified and indicated that VRT is acceptable when delivered at home and guided by a virtual coach. CONCLUSIONS This study is the first to validate a scale to explore attitudes toward VRT guided by a virtual coach. Our findings indicate that people are willing to try VRT, particularly because it offers increased access and choice, and that as VR becomes ubiquitous, they will also have positive attitudes toward VRT. Future research should further validate the AVRT Scale.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aislinn D Gomez Bergin
- National Institute of Health and Care Research MindTech MedTech Co-operative, Institute of Mental Health, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
- National Institute of Health and Care Research Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
- Mental Health and Clinical Neurosciences, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
- School of Computer Science, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Aoife M Allison
- Mental Health and Clinical Neurosciences, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Cassie M Hazell
- Department of Psychological Interventions, School of Psychology, University of Surrey, Guilford, United Kingdom
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Ganter-Argast C, Schipper M, Shamsrizi M, Stein C, Khalil R. The light side of gaming: creativity and brain plasticity. Front Hum Neurosci 2024; 17:1280989. [PMID: 38249576 PMCID: PMC10796710 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2023.1280989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Could gaming enhance brain plasticity and executive functions (EFs) by fostering creativity? We identify vital benefits from further research exploring the relationship between games, brain plasticity, and creativity. The ongoing progress in neuroscience research in these three disciplines offers many possibilities and prospects for impactful therapy. Therefore, we emphasize the significance of investigating the untapped potentials of using games in creative therapy-our perspective on the often-overlooked neuroscientific aspect of creativity concerning health and wellbeing. One of these potentials is examining games as a therapeutic tool, focusing on their capacity to inspire and engage the imagination and other mental operators shared with creativity. Using a game as a therapeutic approach may boost brain plasticity, which may help them reduce their cognitive impairments by improving their EFs. This review offers a comprehensive outline of the latest advancements in the literature on games that tie to creativity through enhancing brain plasticity and EFs. Communicating this knowledge can furnish countless possibilities to improve our overall health and wellbeing and foster a positive perspective in individuals affected by anxiety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christiane Ganter-Argast
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Hospital and Faculty of Medicine, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- University of Applied Sciences, Nürtingen-Geislingen, Nürtingen, Germany
| | - Marc Schipper
- University of Applied Sciences and Arts, Ottersberg, Germany
- Institute for Psychology, Arts, and Society, Bremen, Germany
| | - Manouchehr Shamsrizi
- IFA – Institut für Auslandsbeziehungen, Stuttgart, Germany
- Excellence Cluster Matters of Activity / Gamelab.Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Christian Stein
- Excellence Cluster Matters of Activity / Gamelab.Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Radwa Khalil
- School of Business, Social, and Decision Sciences, Constructor University, Bremen, Germany
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Wray TB, Kemp JJ, Adams Larsen M. Virtual reality (VR) treatments for anxiety disorders are unambiguously successful, so why are so few therapists using it? Barriers to adoption and potential solutions. Cogn Behav Ther 2023; 52:603-624. [PMID: 37376984 PMCID: PMC10592498 DOI: 10.1080/16506073.2023.2229017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023]
Abstract
Anxiety disorders are a significant cause of disability globally, yet only one in ten sufferers receives adequate quality treatment. Exposure-based therapies are effective in reducing symptoms associated with a number of anxiety disorders. However, few therapists use exposure techniques to treat these conditions, even when they are adequately trained in them, often because of concerns about provoking distress, drop out, logistical barriers, and other concerns. Virtual reality exposure therapy (VRET) can address many of these concerns, and a large body of research decisively shows that VRET is as efficacious for treating these conditions as in vivo exposures. Yet, use of VRET remains low. In this article, we discuss several factors we believe are contributing to low VRET adoption among therapists and raise potential solutions to address them. We consider steps that VR experience developers and researchers might take, such as leading studies of VRET's real-world effectiveness and treatment optimization trials and continuing to improve the fit of platforms with clinicians' workflows. We also discuss steps to address therapist reservations using aligned implementation strategies, as well as barriers for clinics, and the roles that professional organizations and payers could have in improving care by encouraging adoption of VRET.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tyler B. Wray
- Center for Alcohol and Addictions Studies, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI
| | - Joshua J. Kemp
- Pediatric Anxiety Research Center, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI
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Alsem SC, van Dijk A, Verhulp EE, Dekkers TJ, De Castro BO. Treating children's aggressive behavior problems using cognitive behavior therapy with virtual reality: A multicenter randomized controlled trial. Child Dev 2023; 94:e344-e361. [PMID: 37459452 DOI: 10.1111/cdev.13966] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Revised: 05/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023]
Abstract
This multicenter randomized controlled trial investigated whether interactive virtual reality enhanced effectiveness of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to reduce children's aggressive behavior problems. Boys with aggressive behavior problems (N = 115; Mage = 10.58, SD = 1.48; 95.7% born in Netherlands) were randomized into three groups: CBT with virtual reality, CBT with roleplays, or care-as-usual. Bayesian analyses showed that CBT with virtual reality more likely reduced aggressive behavior compared to care-as-usual for six of seven outcomes (ds 0.19-0.95), and compared to CBT with roleplays for four outcomes (ds 0.14-0.68). Moreover, compared to roleplays, virtual reality more likely enhanced children's emotional engagement, practice immersion, and treatment appreciation. Thus, virtual reality may be a promising tool to enhance CBT effectiveness for children with aggressive behavior problems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie C Alsem
- Department of Developmental Psychology, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Research Institute of Child Development and Education, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Anouk van Dijk
- Research Institute of Child Development and Education, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Esmée E Verhulp
- Department of Developmental Psychology, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Tycho J Dekkers
- Department of Psychology, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Levvel, Academic Center for Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
- Accare Child Study Center, Groningen, The Netherlands
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Amsterdam University Medical Center (AUMC), Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Bram O De Castro
- Research Institute of Child Development and Education, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Levy AN, Nittas V, Wray TB. Patient Perceptions of In Vivo Versus Virtual Reality Exposures for the Treatment of Anxiety Disorders: Cross-Sectional Survey Study. JMIR Form Res 2023; 7:e47443. [PMID: 37843884 PMCID: PMC10616729 DOI: 10.2196/47443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2023] [Revised: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Psychotherapy, and particularly exposure therapy, has been proven to be an effective treatment for many anxiety disorders, including social and specific phobias, as well as posttraumatic stress disorders. Currently, exposures are underused and mostly delivered in vivo. Virtual reality exposure therapy (VRET) offers a more flexible delivery mechanism that has the potential to address some of the implementation barriers of in vivo exposures while retaining effectiveness. Yet, there is little evidence on how patients perceive different exposure therapy methods. OBJECTIVE This study aims to explore the perceptions of individuals with anxiety disorders toward in vivo and VRET. Our findings can inform therapists about the degree of patient interest in both methods while exploring the demand for VRET as an alternative and novel treatment approach. METHODS Web-based survey assessing the (1) interest in, (2) willingness to use, (3) comfort with, (4) enthusiasm toward, and (5) perceived effectiveness of exposure therapy when delivered in vivo and through VR. Participants included individuals with specific phobia, social phobia, posttraumatic stress disorder, or acute stress disorder or reaction. Participants were presented with educational videos about in vivo and VRET and asked to provide their perceptions quantitatively and qualitatively through a rated scale and free-text responses. RESULTS In total, 184 surveys were completed and analyzed, in which 82% (n=151) of participants reported being willing to receive in vivo exposures and 90.2% (n=166) reported willingness to receive VRET. Participants reported higher interest in, comfort with, enthusiasm toward, and perceived effectiveness of VRET compared to in vivo. Most reported in vivo concerns were linked to (1) increased anxiety, (2) feelings of embarrassment or shame, and (3) exacerbation of current condition. Most reported VRET concerns were linked to (1) risk of side effects including increased anxiety, (2) efficacy uncertainty, and (3) health insurance coverage. The most frequently mentioned VRET benefits include (1) privacy, (2) safety, (3) the ability to control exposures, (4) comfort, (5) the absence of real-life consequences, (6) effectiveness, and (7) customizability to a wider variety of exposures. CONCLUSIONS On average, our participants expressed positive perceptions toward exposure therapy, with slightly more positive perceptions of VRET over in vivo exposures. Despite valid personal concerns and some misconceptions, our findings emphasize that VRET provides an opportunity to get much-needed therapy to patients in ways that are more acceptable and less concerning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda N Levy
- Department of Computer Science, Brown University, Providence, RI, United States
| | - Vasileios Nittas
- Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences, Brown University, Providence, RI, United States
| | - Tyler B Wray
- Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences, Brown University, Providence, RI, United States
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Ong T, Wilczewski H, Soni H, Ivanova J, Barrera J, Cummins M, Welch B, Bunnell B. Therapist perspectives on telehealth-based virtual reality exposure therapy. RESEARCH SQUARE 2023:rs.3.rs-3161151. [PMID: 37503192 PMCID: PMC10371164 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-3161151/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
Virtual reality (VR) can enhance mental health care. In particular, the effectiveness of VR-based exposure therapy (VRET) has been well-demonstrated for treatment of anxiety disorders. However, most applications of VRET remain localized to clinic spaces. We aimed to explore mental health therapists' perceptions of telehealth-based VRET (tele-VRET) by conducting semi-structured, qualitative interviews with 18 telemental health therapists between October and December 2022. Interview topics included telehealth experiences, exposure therapy over telehealth, perceptions of VR in therapy, and perspectives on tele-VRET. Therapists described how telehealth reduced barriers (88.9%, 16/18), enhanced therapy (61.1%, 11/18), and improved access to clients (38.9%, 7/18), but entailed problems with technology (61.1%, 11/18), uncontrolled settings (55.6%, 10/18), and communication di culties (50%, 9/18). Therapists adapted exposure therapy to telehealth by using online resources (66.7%, 12/18), preparing client expectations (55.6%, 10/18), and adjusting workflows (27.8%, 5/18). Most therapists had used VR before (72.2%, 13/18) and had positive impressions (55.6%, 10/18), but none had used VR clinically. In response to tele-VRET, therapists requested interactive session activities (77.8%, 14/18) and customizable interventions components (55.6%, 10/18). Concerns about tele-VRET included risks with certain clients (77.8%, 14/18), costs (50%, 9/18), side effects and privacy (22.2%, 4/18), and inappropriateness for specific forms of exposure therapy (16.7%, 3/18). These results show how designing for telehealth may extend VRET and can help inform collaborative development of health technologies.
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Hernandez R, Wilund K, Solai K, Tamayo D, Fast D, Venkatesan P, Lash JP, Lora CM, Martinez L, Martin Alemañy G, Martinez A, Kwon S, Romero D, Browning MHEM, Moskowitz JT. Positive Psychological Intervention Delivered Using Virtual Reality in Patients on Hemodialysis With Comorbid Depression: Protocol and Design for the Joviality Randomized Controlled Trial. JMIR Res Protoc 2023; 12:e45100. [PMID: 37327026 DOI: 10.2196/45100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2023] [Revised: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Depression is highly prevalent in individuals on hemodialysis, but it is infrequently identified and remains undertreated. In this paper, we present details of the methodology of a randomized controlled trial (RCT) aimed at testing the feasibility and preliminary efficacy of a 5-week positive psychological intervention in individuals on hemodialysis with comorbid depression delivered using immersive virtual reality (VR) technology. OBJECTIVE We aim to describe the protocol and design of the Joviality trial whose main objectives are 2-fold: determine the feasibility of the Joviality VR software through metrics capturing rates of recruitment, refusal, retention, noncompliance, and adherence, as well as end-user feedback; and assess preliminary efficacy for outcomes measures of depressive symptoms, psychological well-being and distress, quality of life, treatment adherence, clinical biomarkers, and all-cause hospitalizations. METHODS This 2-arm RCT is scheduled to enroll 84 individuals on hemodialysis with comorbid depression from multiple outpatient centers in Chicago, Illinois, United States. Enrollees will be randomized to the following groups: VR-based Joviality positive psychological intervention or sham VR (2D wildlife footage and nature-based settings with inert music presented using a head-mounted display). To be eligible, individuals must be on hemodialysis for at least 3 months, have Beck Depression Inventory-II scores of ≥11 (ie, indicative of mild-to-severe depressive symptoms), be aged ≥21 years, and be fluent in English or Spanish. The Joviality VR software was built using agile design principles and incorporates fully immersive content, digital avatars, and multiplex features of interactability. Targeted skills of the intervention include noticing positive events, positive reappraisal, gratitude, acts of kindness, and mindful or nonjudgmental awareness. The primary outcomes include metrics of feasibility and acceptability, along with preliminary efficacy focused on decreasing symptoms of depression. The secondary and tertiary outcomes include quality of life, treatment adherence, clinical biomarkers, and all-cause hospitalization rates. There are 4 assessment time points: baseline, immediately after the intervention, 3 months after the intervention, and 6 months after the intervention. We hypothesize that depressive symptoms and hemodialysis-related markers of disease will substantially improve in participants randomized to the VR-based Joviality positive psychology treatment arm compared with those in the attention control condition. RESULTS This RCT is funded by the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases and is scheduled to commence participant recruitment in June 2023. CONCLUSIONS This trial will be the first to test custom-built VR software to deliver a positive psychological intervention, chairside, in individuals on hemodialysis to reduce symptoms of depression. Within the context of an RCT using an active control arm, if proven effective, VR technology may become a potent tool to deliver mental health programming in clinical populations during their outpatient treatment sessions. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05642364; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT05642364. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID) PRR1-10.2196/45100.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosalba Hernandez
- Department of Population Health Nursing Science, College of Nursing, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Ken Wilund
- Department of Kinesiology and Community Health, College of Applied Health Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, United States
| | - Killivalavan Solai
- Center for Innovation in Teaching and Learning, University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign, Urbana, IL, United States
| | - David Tamayo
- Center for Innovation in Teaching and Learning, University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign, Urbana, IL, United States
| | - Drew Fast
- Center for Innovation in Teaching and Learning, University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign, Urbana, IL, United States
| | - Prasakthi Venkatesan
- Center for Innovation in Teaching and Learning, University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign, Urbana, IL, United States
| | - James P Lash
- Division of Nephrology, College of Medicine, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Claudia M Lora
- Division of Nephrology, College of Medicine, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Lizet Martinez
- Department of Population Health Nursing Science, College of Nursing, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Geovana Martin Alemañy
- Department of Kinesiology and Community Health, College of Applied Health Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, United States
| | - Angela Martinez
- Department of Population Health Nursing Science, College of Nursing, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Soonhyung Kwon
- School of Social Work, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, United States
| | - Dana Romero
- Department of Population Health Nursing Science, College of Nursing, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Matthew H E M Browning
- Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism Management, College of Behavioral, Social and Health Sciences, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, United States
| | - Judith T Moskowitz
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, United States
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Kouijzer MMTE, Kip H, Bouman YHA, Kelders SM. Implementation of virtual reality in healthcare: a scoping review on the implementation process of virtual reality in various healthcare settings. Implement Sci Commun 2023; 4:67. [PMID: 37328858 DOI: 10.1186/s43058-023-00442-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2022] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Virtual reality (VR) is increasingly used in healthcare settings as recent technological advancements create possibilities for diagnosis and treatment. VR is a technology that uses a headset to simulate a reality in which the user is immersed in a virtual environment, creating the impression that the user is physically present in this virtual space. Despite the potential added value of virtual reality technology in healthcare, its uptake in clinical practice is still in its infancy and challenges arise in the implementation of VR. Effective implementation could improve the adoption, uptake, and impact of VR. However, these implementation procedures still seem to be understudied in practice. This scoping review aimed to examine the current state of affairs in the implementation of VR technology in healthcare settings and to provide an overview of factors related to the implementation of VR. METHODS To give an overview of relevant literature, a scoping review was undertaken of articles published up until February 2022, guided by the methodological framework of Arksey and O'Malley (2005). The databases Scopus, PsycINFO, and Web of Science were systematically searched to identify records that highlighted the current state of affairs regarding the implementation of VR in healthcare settings. Information about each study was extracted using a structured data extraction form. RESULTS Of the 5523 records identified, 29 were included in this study. Most studies focused on barriers and facilitators to implementation, highlighting similar factors related to the behavior of adopters of VR and the practical resources the organization should arrange for. However, few studies focus on systematic implementation and on using a theoretical framework to guide implementation. Despite the recommendation of using a structured, multi-level implementation intervention to support the needs of all involved stakeholders, there was no link between the identified barriers and facilitators, and specific implementation objectives or suitable strategies to overcome these barriers in the included articles. CONCLUSION To take the implementation of VR in healthcare to the next level, it is important to ensure that implementation is not studied in separate studies focusing on one element, e.g., healthcare provider-related barriers, as is common in current literature. Based on the results of this study, we recommend that the implementation of VR entails the entire process, from identifying barriers to developing and employing a coherent, multi-level implementation intervention with suitable strategies. This implementation process could be supported by implementation frameworks and ideally focus on behavior change of stakeholders such as healthcare providers, patients, and managers. This in turn might result in increased uptake and use of VR technologies that are of added value for healthcare practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marileen M T E Kouijzer
- Centre for eHealth and Wellbeing Research; Department of Technology, Human & Institutional Behaviour, University of Twente, Enschede, Netherlands.
| | - Hanneke Kip
- Centre for eHealth and Wellbeing Research; Department of Technology, Human & Institutional Behaviour, University of Twente, Enschede, Netherlands
- Department of Research, Transfore, Deventer, Netherlands
| | | | - Saskia M Kelders
- Centre for eHealth and Wellbeing Research; Department of Technology, Human & Institutional Behaviour, University of Twente, Enschede, Netherlands
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Luck-Sikorski C, Hochrein R, Döllinger N, Wienrich C, Gemesi K, Holzmann S, Holzapfel C, Weinberger NA. Digital communication and virtual reality for extending the behavioural treatment of obesity - the patients' perspective: results of an online survey in Germany. BMC Med Inform Decis Mak 2023; 23:100. [PMID: 37226164 DOI: 10.1186/s12911-023-02197-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2022] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/26/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND CBT has been found effective for the treatment of EDs and obesity. However not all patients achieve clinically significant weight loss and weight regain is common. In this context, technology-based interventions can be used to enhance traditional CBT but are not yet widespread. This survey therefore explores the status quo of pathways of communication between patients and therapists, the use of digital applications for therapy as well as attitudes towards VR from the perspective of patients with obesity in Germany. METHODS This cross-sectional online survey was conducted in October 2020. Participants were recruited digitally through social media, obesity associations and self-help groups. The standardized questionnaire included items concerning current treatment, paths of communication with their therapists, and attitudes toward VR. The descriptive analyses were performed with Stata. RESULTS The 152 participants were mostly female (90%), had a mean age of 46.5 years (SD = 9.2) and an average BMI of 43.0 kg/m² (SD = 8.4). Face-to-face communication with their therapist was considered of high importance in current treatment (M = 4.30; SD = 0.86) and messenger apps were the most frequently used digital application for communication. Participants were mostly neutral regarding the inclusion of VR methods in obesity treatment (M = 3.27; SD = 1.19). Only one participant had already used VR glasses as part of treatment. Participants considered VR suitable for exercises promoting body image change (M = 3.40; SD = 1.02). DISCUSSION Technological approaches in obesity therapy are not widespread. Face-to-face communication remains the most important setting for treatment. Participants had low familiarity with VR but a neutral to positive attitude toward the technology. Further studies are needed to provide a clearer picture of potential treatment barriers or educational needs and to facilitate the transfer of developed VR systems into clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Luck-Sikorski
- Research Group "Chronic Diseases and Psychological Health" (COPE), SRH University of Applied Health Sciences, Neue Str. 28-30, 07548, Gera, Germany.
| | - Regine Hochrein
- Research Group "Chronic Diseases and Psychological Health" (COPE), SRH University of Applied Health Sciences, Neue Str. 28-30, 07548, Gera, Germany
| | - Nina Döllinger
- Human-Technology-Systems, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Carolin Wienrich
- Human-Technology-Systems, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Kathrin Gemesi
- School of Medicine, Institute for Nutritional Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Sophie Holzmann
- School of Medicine, Institute for Nutritional Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Christina Holzapfel
- School of Medicine, Institute for Nutritional Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Natascha-Alexandra Weinberger
- Research Group "Chronic Diseases and Psychological Health" (COPE), SRH University of Applied Health Sciences, Neue Str. 28-30, 07548, Gera, Germany
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Zhou Z, Li J, Wang H, Luan Z, Du S, Wu N, Chen Y, Peng X. Experience of using a virtual reality rehabilitation management platform for breast cancer patients: a qualitative study. Support Care Cancer 2023; 31:307. [PMID: 37115320 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-023-07765-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2022] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSES Postoperative rehabilitation of upper limb function is crucial for breast cancer. Therefore, we developed a rehabilitation management platform using virtual reality to improve rehabilitation compliance and effect. The purpose of this research was to understand the user usability experience of breast cancer patients about the postoperative rehabilitation management of upper limb function using virtual reality. METHODS A qualitative descriptive research was designed. We used a maximum difference purpose sampling method. According to the inclusion and exclusion criteria, a 3-armor hospital in Changchun was selected for the recruitment. A one-on-one semi-structured interviews were conducted with patients after breast cancer operation. The Colaizzi seven-step analysis method was used to classify data under summarized themes. RESULTS Twenty patients participated in this semi-structured interview. User experience could be summarized into four themes as follows: 1) experience and feeling after using the virtual reality rehabilitation management platform; 2) factors influencing the use of the virtual reality rehabilitation management platform; 3) willingness to recommend the virtual reality rehabilitation management platform to peers; and 4) suggestions to improve the virtual reality rehabilitation management platform. CONCLUSIONS Breast cancer patients who used the rehabilitation management platform had a good experience, and their recognition and satisfaction were high. The use of the platform is influenced by many factors, and most patients are willing to recommend this platform to their peers. Future studies should be conducted according to patients' feedback and suggestions on how to further optimize and improve the platform.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zijun Zhou
- Breast Surgery, Jilin Province Tumor Hospital, Jilin, China
| | - Jiaxin Li
- School of Nursing, Jilin University, Jilin, China
| | - He Wang
- Breast Surgery, Jilin Province Tumor Hospital, Jilin, China
| | - Ze Luan
- School of Nursing, Jilin University, Jilin, China
| | - Shiyuan Du
- School of Nursing, Jilin University, Jilin, China
| | - Nan Wu
- School of Nursing, Jilin University, Jilin, China
| | - Yulu Chen
- School of Nursing, Jilin University, Jilin, China
| | - Xin Peng
- School of Nursing, Jilin University, Jilin, China.
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Using the Theoretical Domains Framework to Inform the Implementation of Therapeutic Virtual Reality into Mental Healthcare. ADMINISTRATION AND POLICY IN MENTAL HEALTH AND MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES RESEARCH 2023; 50:237-268. [PMID: 36512145 DOI: 10.1007/s10488-022-01235-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Evidence supporting the efficacy of therapeutic virtual reality (VR) for mental health conditions is rapidly growing. However, little is known about how best to implement VR, or the challenges perceived by treatment providers. This study aimed to (1) synthesis perspectives of staff working in private mental healthcare and (2) use the Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF) and Behaviour Change Wheel (BCW) to identify mechanisms of change targets and intervention functions to facilitate its clinical implementation. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with clinicians (n = 14) and service managers (n = 5) working in a major private mental health hospital in Victoria, Australia. Transcripts were coded using framework analysis to identify relevant TDF domains. Specific belief statements were generated and coded as a barrier and/or facilitator and thematically organised within domains. Domains were ranked for importance based on frequency, elaboration, and evidence of conflicting beliefs. Using the BCW, domains were mapped to their respective COM-B components and indicated intervention functions. A total of 11 TDF domains were identified as relevant to early-stage implementation of therapeutic VR. Three domains were judged as highly important (beliefs about consequences; environmental context and resources; knowledge), while seven domains were judged as moderately important (social/professional role and identity; emotions; skills; memory, attention, and decision processes; intentions; beliefs about capabilities; social influences). Based on current data, we propose a theory-informed roadmap to promote VR uptake in mental healthcare services. A priority for intervention development should be addressing knowledge gaps and attitudinal barriers (e.g., safety concerns) with education and training.
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Heyse J, Depreeuw B, Van Daele T, Daeseleire T, Ongenae F, De Backere F, De Turck F. An adaptation algorithm for personalised virtual reality exposure therapy. COMPUTER METHODS AND PROGRAMS IN BIOMEDICINE 2022; 225:107077. [PMID: 36030573 DOI: 10.1016/j.cmpb.2022.107077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2021] [Revised: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 08/17/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Anxiety disorders are highly prevalent in mental health problems. The lives of people suffering from an anxiety disorder can be severely impaired. Virtual Reality Exposure Therapy (VRET) is an effective treatment, which immerses patients in a controlled Virtual Environment (VE). This creates the opportunity to confront feared stimuli and learn how to deal with them, which may result in the reduction of anxiety. The configuration of these VEs requires extensive effort to maximise the potential of Virtual Reality (VR) and the effectiveness of the therapy. Manual configuration becomes infeasible when the number of possible virtual stimuli combinations is infinite. Due to the growing complexity, acquiring the skills to truly master a VR system is difficult and it increases the threshold for psychotherapists to use such useful systems. We therefore developed a prototype of a supportive algorithm to facilitate the use of VRET in a clinical setting. This automatised system assists psychotherapists to use the wide range of functionalities without burdening them with technical challenges. Thus, psychotherapists can focus their attention on the patient. METHODS In this paper both the prototype of the algorithm and a first proof of concept are described. The algorithm suggests environment configurations for VRET, tailored to the individual therapeutic needs of each patient. The system aims to maximise learning during exposure therapy for different combinations of stimuli by using the Rescorla-Wagner model as a predictor for learning. In a first proof of concept, the VE configurations suggested by the algorithm for three anonymised clinical vignettes were compared with prior manual configurations by two psychotherapists. RESULTS The prototype of the algorithm and a first proof of concept are described. The first proof of concept demonstrated the relevance and potential of the proposed system, as it managed to propose similar configurations for the clinical vignettes compared to those made by therapists. Nonetheless, because of the exploratory nature of the study, no claims can yet be made about its efficacy. CONCLUSIONS With the increasing ubiquity of immersive technologies, this technology for assisted configuration of VEs could make VRET a valuable tool for psychotherapists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joris Heyse
- IDLab, Department of Information Technology Ghent University - imec, Technologiepark-Zwijnaarde 126, Ghent 9052, Belgium.
| | - Barbara Depreeuw
- The Human Link, Grotesteenweg 93, Antwerp 2600, Belgium; University Psychiatric Centre Duffel, Stationsstraat 22, Duffel 2570, Belgium.
| | - Tom Van Daele
- The Human Link, Grotesteenweg 93, Antwerp 2600, Belgium.
| | | | - Femke Ongenae
- IDLab, Department of Information Technology Ghent University - imec, Technologiepark-Zwijnaarde 126, Ghent 9052, Belgium.
| | - Femke De Backere
- IDLab, Department of Information Technology Ghent University - imec, Technologiepark-Zwijnaarde 126, Ghent 9052, Belgium.
| | - Filip De Turck
- IDLab, Department of Information Technology Ghent University - imec, Technologiepark-Zwijnaarde 126, Ghent 9052, Belgium.
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Smyth W, McArdle J, Body-Dempsey J, Manickam V, Swinbourne A, Lee I, Holdsworth J, Omonaiye O, Nagle C. Immersive virtual reality in a northern Queensland haemodialysis unit: Study protocol for a cross-over randomized controlled feasibility trial (ACTRN12621000732886). Contemp Clin Trials Commun 2022; 28:100956. [PMID: 35812818 PMCID: PMC9256545 DOI: 10.1016/j.conctc.2022.100956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2021] [Revised: 05/30/2022] [Accepted: 06/23/2022] [Indexed: 10/27/2022] Open
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Wray TB, Emery NN. Feasibility, Appropriateness, and Willingness to Use Virtual Reality as an Adjunct to Counseling among Addictions Counselors. Subst Use Misuse 2022; 57:1470-1477. [PMID: 35754378 DOI: 10.1080/10826084.2022.2092148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Research suggests that virtual reality (VR) experiences can be helpful as adjunctive tools in psychotherapy for some mental health conditions. VR is a computer-generated experience that produces a feeling of being immersed in a different environment. VR experiences could be useful in the treatment of substance use disorders, and several are currently being tested. However, few psychotherapists report using VR experiences in their practices, even when doing so is well-supported. Understanding key barriers and concerns about using VR among drug/alcohol counselors is important to ultimately encouraging adoption. METHODS Licensed counselors (N = 101) who provide treatment to clients with substance use disorders were recruited via email Listservs, professional organizations, and social media. Participants viewed a 15-minute educational video about VR and then completed a survey of their views about using it with their clients. RESULTS Most clinicians (82%) believed they would be likely to use a VR experience in drug/alcohol counseling, and 81% believed it would be appropriate for most of their clients. A minority (19%) noted important concerns, including that their clients may be skeptical of it (15%), cost (14%), and space (10%). Those who had cost and space concerns were less likely to report high use intentions (OR = 0.29 and OR = 031, both p < .05, respectively). CONCLUSIONS Findings suggest that addictions counselors are eager to use VR, but key barriers should be addressed. VR developers should incorporate features to encourage trust among users, design experiences for small spaces, and explore ways of supporting the purchase of VR systems for counselors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tyler B Wray
- Center for Alcohol and Addictions Studies, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Noah N Emery
- Department of Psychology, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, USA
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Park CSY, Kim H, Lee S, Park NJY. Adapting to Cutocracy: A Survival Strategy for Prospective Health Professions Educators in the Era of the Metaverse. J Prof Nurs 2022; 41:A1-A4. [DOI: 10.1016/j.profnurs.2022.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Ong T, Wilczewski H, Soni H, Nisbet Q, Paige SR, Barrera JF, Welch BM, Bunnell BE. The Symbiosis of Virtual Reality Exposure Therapy and Telemental Health: A Review. FRONTIERS IN VIRTUAL REALITY 2022; 3:848066. [PMID: 37483657 PMCID: PMC10361704 DOI: 10.3389/frvir.2022.848066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/25/2023]
Abstract
Phobias and related anxiety are common and costly mental health disorders. Experts anticipate the prevalence of phobias will increase due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Exposure therapies have been established as effective and reliable treatments for anxiety, including recent innovations in virtual reality-based exposure therapy (VRET). With the recent advent of telemental health (TMH), VRET is poised to become mainstream. The combination of VRET and TMH has the potential to extend provider treatment options and improve patient care experiences. In this narrative review, we describe how recent events have accelerated VRET + TMH, identify barriers to VRET + TMH implementation, and discuss strategies to navigate those barriers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Triton Ong
- Doxy.me Research, Doxy.me Inc., Rochester, NY, United States
| | | | - Hiral Soni
- Doxy.me Research, Doxy.me Inc., Rochester, NY, United States
| | - Quinn Nisbet
- Doxy.me Research, Doxy.me Inc., Rochester, NY, United States
| | | | - Janelle F. Barrera
- Doxy.me Research, Doxy.me Inc., Rochester, NY, United States
- Biomedical Informatics Center, Public Health and Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
| | - Brandon M. Welch
- Doxy.me Research, Doxy.me Inc., Rochester, NY, United States
- Innovation in Mental Health Lab, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, United States
| | - Brian E. Bunnell
- Doxy.me Research, Doxy.me Inc., Rochester, NY, United States
- Biomedical Informatics Center, Public Health and Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
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Virtual Reality Aided Therapy towards Health 4.0: A Two-Decade Bibliometric Analysis. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19031525. [PMID: 35162546 PMCID: PMC8834834 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19031525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2021] [Revised: 01/22/2022] [Accepted: 01/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Health 4.0 aligns with Industry 4.0 and encourages the application of the latest technologies to healthcare. Virtual reality (VR) is a potentially significant component of the Health 4.0 vision. Though VR in health care is a popular topic, there is little knowledge of VR-aided therapy from a macro perspective. Therefore, this paper was aimed to explore the research of VR in aiding therapy, thus providing a potential guideline for futures application of therapeutic VR in healthcare towards Health 4.0. A mixed research method was adopted for this research, which comprised the use of a bibliometric analysis (a quantitative method) to conduct a macro overview of VR-aided therapy, the identification of significant research structures and topics, and a qualitative review of the literature to reveal deeper insights. Four major research areas of VR-aided therapy were identified and investigated, i.e., post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety and fear related disorder (A&F), diseases of the nervous system (DNS), and pain management, including related medical conditions, therapies, methods, and outcomes. This study is the first to use VOSviewer, a commonly used software tool for constructing and visualizing bibliometric networks and developed by Center for Science and Technology Studies, Leiden University, the Netherlands, to conduct bibliometric analyses on VR-aided therapy from the perspective of Web of Science core collection (WoSc), which objectively and visually shows research structures and topics, therefore offering instructive insights for health care stakeholders (particularly researchers and service providers) such as including integrating more innovative therapies, emphasizing psychological benefits, using game elements, and introducing design research. The results of this paper facilitate with achieving the vision of Health 4.0 and illustrating a two-decade (2000 to year 2020) map of pre-life of the Health Metaverse.
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Chung OS, Johnson AM, Dowling NL, Robinson T, Ng CH, Yücel M, Segrave RA. Are Australian Mental Health Services Ready for Therapeutic Virtual Reality? An Investigation of Knowledge, Attitudes, Implementation Barriers and Enablers. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:792663. [PMID: 35185649 PMCID: PMC8854652 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.792663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2021] [Accepted: 01/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Therapeutic virtual reality (VR) has the potential to address the challenges of equitable delivery of evidence-based psychological treatment. However, little is known about therapeutic VR regarding the perspectives and needs of real-world service providers. This exploratory study aimed to assess the acceptability, appropriateness, and feasibility of therapeutic VR among clinicians, managers, and service staff working in mental healthcare and explore potential implementation barriers and enablers. Eighty-one staff from a network of private psychiatric hospitals in Victoria, Australia (aged M + SD: 41.88 + 12.01 years, 71.6% female; 64% clinical staff) completed an online survey, which included the Acceptability of Intervention Measure (AIM), Appropriateness of Intervention Measure (IAM), and Feasibility of Intervention Measure (FIM). While 91% of participants had heard about VR technology, only 40% of participants had heard of therapeutic VR being used in mental healthcare, and none had used therapeutic VR in a clinical setting. Most participants perceived VR to be acceptable (84%), appropriate (69%), and feasible (59%) to implement within their role or service and envisioned a range of possible applications. However, participants expressed concerns regarding safety, efficacy, and logistical challenges across clinical settings. Findings suggest a strong interest for therapeutic VR among Australian mental health providers working in the private system. However, dissemination efforts should focus on addressing identified barriers to ensure mental health providers are adequately informed and empowered to make implementation decisions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivia S Chung
- BrainPark, Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health and Monash Biomedical Imaging Facility, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Alisha M Johnson
- BrainPark, Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health and Monash Biomedical Imaging Facility, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Nathan L Dowling
- Professorial Unit, Department of Psychiatry, The Melbourne Clinic, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Tracy Robinson
- School of Nursing, Paramedicine and Healthcare Sciences, Charles Sturt University, Bathurst, NSW, Australia
| | - Chee H Ng
- Professorial Unit, Department of Psychiatry, The Melbourne Clinic, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Murat Yücel
- BrainPark, Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health and Monash Biomedical Imaging Facility, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Rebecca A Segrave
- BrainPark, Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health and Monash Biomedical Imaging Facility, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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Rowland DP, Casey LM, Ganapathy A, Cassimatis M, Clough BA. A Decade in Review: A Systematic Review of Virtual Reality Interventions for Emotional Disorders. PSYCHOSOCIAL INTERVENTION = INTERVENCION PSICOSOCIAL 2022; 31:1-20. [PMID: 37362616 PMCID: PMC10268557 DOI: 10.5093/pi2021a8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2021] [Accepted: 07/22/2021] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
Research is increasingly demonstrating the therapeutic benefits of virtual reality interventions for various mental health conditions, though these rarely translate from research to application in clinical settings. This systematic review aims to examine the efficacy of current virtual reality interventions for emotional disorders, with a focus on clinical and technological features that influence translation of treatments from research to clinical practice. A comprehensive systematic literature search was conducted following PRISMA guidelines, for studies including the application of a virtual reality intervention to a clinical population of adults with an emotional disorder. Thirty-seven eligible studies were identified, appraised, and assessed for bias. Treatment effects were typically large across studies, with virtual reality being considered an efficacious treatment modality for various anxiety disorders and post-traumatic stress disorder. Virtual reality interventions were typically used for delivering exposure in cognitive behavioural therapy approaches. Considerable variability was seen in cost, technological specifications, degree of therapist involvement, delivery format, dosage, duration, and frequency of treatment. Suboptimal methodological rigour was identified in some studies. Remote use of virtual reality was rare, despite increasing options for in home use. Virtual reality interventions have the potential to overcome barriers to care and better meet the needs of consumers. Future research should examine the efficacy of virtual reality for treatment of depressive disorders and obsesive compulsive disorder. Improved methodological reporting and development of transdiagnostic and remotely delivered virtual reality interventions, will likely increase the translation of this treatment modality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dale P. Rowland
- Griffith UniversityQueenslandAustraliaGriffith University, Queensland, Australia
- Menzies Health InstituteQueenslandAustraliaMenzies Health Institute Queensland, Australia
| | - Leanne M. Casey
- Griffith UniversityQueenslandAustraliaGriffith University, Queensland, Australia
- Menzies Health InstituteQueenslandAustraliaMenzies Health Institute Queensland, Australia
| | - Aarthi Ganapathy
- Griffith UniversityQueenslandAustraliaGriffith University, Queensland, Australia
- Menzies Health InstituteQueenslandAustraliaMenzies Health Institute Queensland, Australia
| | - Mandy Cassimatis
- Griffith UniversityQueenslandAustraliaGriffith University, Queensland, Australia
- Menzies Health InstituteQueenslandAustraliaMenzies Health Institute Queensland, Australia
| | - Bonnie A. Clough
- Griffith UniversityQueenslandAustraliaGriffith University, Queensland, Australia
- Menzies Health InstituteQueenslandAustraliaMenzies Health Institute Queensland, Australia
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Gemesi K, Holzmann SL, Hochrein R, Döllinger N, Wienrich C, Weinberger NA, Luck-Sikorski C, Holzapfel C. Attitude of Nutrition Experts Toward Psychotherapy and Virtual Reality as Part of Obesity Treatment-An Online Survey. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:787832. [PMID: 35546927 PMCID: PMC9082543 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.787832] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2021] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The management of obesity requires lifestyle-based interventions covering nutrition, physical activity, and behavior. As part of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), body image therapy approaches can be used not only by psychotherapists. One tool to conduct behavioral therapy is virtual reality (VR). It is unknown, whether nutrition experts conduct behavioral therapy, and whether they would like to use VR technology as a tool to conduct body image therapy as part of obesity management. OBJECTIVE This survey aimed to collect data from nutrition experts treating people with obesity about the status quo regarding behavioral and body image therapy as part of obesity management, and regarding their attitude toward VR in obesity therapy. METHODS The survey was conducted online in autumn 2020. Participants were recruited digitally through expert and professional associations. The standardized questionnaire included items concerning sociodemographic, professional status, behavioral therapy, body image, and VR. The descriptive analysis was performed with Excel, the subgroup analyses with R. RESULTS Data from 158 nutrition experts was analyzed. Participants were mostly female (98/102, 96.1%) and had a mean age of 45.6 ± 11.3 years (n = 101). Most of the survey participants (93/124, 75.0%) stated to use behavioral treatment methods in case of weight reduction as the primary target. More than half of the participants stated to address body image (99/150, 66.0%). Almost all (111/112, 99.1%) nutrition experts have never used VR-glasses. The suitability and importance of VR technology as part of obesity therapy was estimated as neutral by around 50%. Overall, no statistically significant difference could be shown between age groups regarding attitudes toward VR in obesity treatment. CONCLUSION The results of this non-representative survey indicate that nutrition experts do not use VR technology in nutrition counseling sessions to treat obesity. In addition, survey participants have a positive attitude to VR technology, whereas they are not familiar with this technology. In future, VR technology might support nutrition experts of every age using elements of body image therapy. SURVEY REGISTRATION The German Register of Clinical Studies (Registration Number: DRKS00022853).
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathrin Gemesi
- School of Medicine, Institute for Nutritional Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Sophie Laura Holzmann
- School of Medicine, Institute for Nutritional Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Regine Hochrein
- Research Group "Chronic Diseases and Psychological Health" (COPE), SRH, University of Applied Health Sciences, Gera, Germany
| | - Nina Döllinger
- Human-Technology-Systems, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Carolin Wienrich
- Human-Technology-Systems, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Natascha-Alexandra Weinberger
- Research Group "Chronic Diseases and Psychological Health" (COPE), SRH, University of Applied Health Sciences, Gera, Germany.,Integrated Research and Treatment Center (IFB) AdiposityDiseases, Leipzig University - Medical Center, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Claudia Luck-Sikorski
- Research Group "Chronic Diseases and Psychological Health" (COPE), SRH, University of Applied Health Sciences, Gera, Germany.,Integrated Research and Treatment Center (IFB) AdiposityDiseases, Leipzig University - Medical Center, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Christina Holzapfel
- School of Medicine, Institute for Nutritional Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
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Vincent C, Eberts M, Naik T, Gulick V, O’Hayer CV. Provider experiences of virtual reality in clinical treatment. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0259364. [PMID: 34714889 PMCID: PMC8555834 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0259364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2021] [Accepted: 10/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Virtual reality (VR) has proven effective in the treatment of specific phobias and trauma particularly when in-vivo exposure therapy might be costly (e.g. fear of flying, combat scenes). Similarly, VR has been associated with improvement of chronic pain and of acute pain during medical procedures. Despite its effectiveness as a healthcare tool, VR technology is not well-integrated into common practice. This qualitative study aims to explore the provider perception of the value of VR and identify barriers to VR implementation among healthcare providers. Methods A 66-item self-report survey was created to examine application of VR to clinical practice, perceived value of this treatment, ease of learning the technology, billing considerations, and other obstacles. 128 providers (MDs and PhDs) who were located in the United States and had used VR as a therapeutic tool in the past year were identified through research papers, as well as user lists and news articles from VR application websites. Of the 128 providers contacted, 17% (22) completed our online self-report measure. Of these, 13% of respondents (N = 17) completed greater than 75% of the questionnaire and were considered completers. Provider responses were collected over a one-month period and qualitatively analyzed. Results The majority of providers were from an academic institution (n = 12, 70.6%), and all providers practiced in the outpatient setting. Providers most commonly reported using VR for the treatment of acute pain and/or anxiety related to medical procedures (n = 11, 64.7%), followed by specific phobia (n = 6, 35.3%) and social phobia (n = 6, 35.3%). All providers agreed VR is a valuable tool they would recommend to colleagues. The majority (n = 15, 93.8%) believed VR helped their patients progress in treatment, compared with other methods. Providers cited the ability to individualize treatment (n = 14, 87.5%) and increase patient engagement (n = 15, 93.8%) as main benefits of VR. A minority reported negative feedback from patients about content (n = 4, 25%) or about the technology in general (n = 6, 37.5%), whereas all reported some form of positive feedback. The slight majority (n = 10, 58.8%) of providers did not find transitioning to VR difficult. Of those who did, cost was the most commonly cited barrier (n = 6). Regarding reimbursement, only 17.6% (n = 3) of providers reported the ability to bill for VR sessions. Most providers (n = 15, 88.2%) received training on their VR platform which they found beneficial. Comparing the trained and untrained groups found no significant difference in VR comfort level (p = 0.5058), the value of VR in practice (p = 0.551) or whether providers would recommend VR to others (p = 0.551), though sample sizes were small. Conclusions In corroboration with previous research, this study demonstrates that VR is well-received by patients and providers, allowing increased patient engagement and treatment individualization. However, associated costs, including an inability to bill for this service, can present a barrier to further implementation. These findings will guide further development of virtual reality as a standardized tool in psychiatry and pain management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine Vincent
- Sidney Kimmel Medical College at Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Margaret Eberts
- Sidney Kimmel Medical College at Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, United States of America
| | - Tejal Naik
- Department of Medicine at Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, United States of America
| | - Victoria Gulick
- Information Services & Technologies at Jefferson Health, Philadelphia, PA, United States of America
| | - C. Virginia O’Hayer
- Department of Psychiatry & Human Behavior at Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, United States of America
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Zainal NH, Chan WW, Saxena AP, Taylor CB, Newman MG. Pilot randomized trial of self-guided virtual reality exposure therapy for social anxiety disorder. Behav Res Ther 2021; 147:103984. [PMID: 34740099 DOI: 10.1016/j.brat.2021.103984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2021] [Revised: 09/14/2021] [Accepted: 10/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Virtual reality exposure therapy (VRE) has shown promising efficacy for the treatment of social anxiety disorder (SAD) and related comorbidities. However, most trials conducted to date were therapist-led, and little is known about the efficacy of self-guided VRE. Therefore, this randomized controlled trial (RCT) aimed to determine the efficacy of a self-directed VRE for SAD. METHOD Forty-four community-dwelling or undergraduate adults diagnosed with SAD based on the Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview were randomly assigned to VRE designed to last four sessions or more (n = 26) or waitlist (WL; n = 18). Self-reported SAD severity (Social Phobia Diagnostic Questionnaire and Social Interaction Anxiety Scale), job interview anxiety (Measure of Anxiety in Selection Interviews), trait worry (Penn State Worry Questionnaire), and depression symptoms (Patient Health Questionnaire-9) were administered at baseline, post-treatment, 3-month-follow-up (3MFU), and 6-month-follow-up (6MFU). Piecewise multilevel modeling analyses were conducted to manage clustering in the data. RESULTS VRE vs. WL resulted in greater reductions in SAD symptom severity, job interview fear, and trait worry, with moderate-to-large effect sizes (Hedge's g = -0.54 to -1.11) from pre-to-post treatment. Although significant between-group differences did not emerge for change in depression, VRE led to change in depression, whereas waitlist did not. These gains were also maintained at 3MFU and 6MFU. Further, facets of presence increased during the course of VRE (g = 0.36-0.45), whereas cybersickness decreased (g = -0.43). DISCUSSION Brief, self-guided VRE might ameliorate SAD and comorbid worry, for young-to-middle-aged adults with SAD. Other theoretical and practical implications were also discussed.
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Alsem SC, van Dijk A, Verhulp EE, De Castro BO. Using virtual reality to treat aggressive behavior problems in children: A feasibility study. Clin Child Psychol Psychiatry 2021; 26:1062-1075. [PMID: 34151602 PMCID: PMC8593284 DOI: 10.1177/13591045211026160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Evidence-based cognitive behavioral therapies (CBTs) for children with aggressive behavior problems have only modest effects. Research is needed into new methods to enhance CBT effectiveness. The aims of the present study were to (1) examine whether interactive virtual reality is a feasible treatment method for children with aggressive behavior problems; (2) investigate children's appreciation of the method; and (3) explore whether children's aggression decreased during the ten-session treatment. Six boys (8-12 years) participated at two clinical centers in the Netherlands. Newly developed weekly reports were collected on treatment feasibility (therapist-report), treatment appreciation (child report), and children's aggression (child/parent report). Results supported treatment feasibility: therapists delivered on average 98% of the session content, provided more than the recommended practice time in virtual reality, experienced few technical issues, and were satisfied with their treatment delivery. Children highly appreciated the treatment. Parents reported decreases in children's aggression over the treatment period (i.e., between week 1 and week 10), but children did not. The promising findings of this feasibility study warrant randomized controlled trials to determine whether interactive virtual reality enhances CBT effectiveness for children with aggressive behavior problems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie C Alsem
- Department of Developmental Psychology, Utrecht University, The Netherlands
| | - Anouk van Dijk
- Department of Developmental Psychology, Utrecht University, The Netherlands
- Research Institute of Child Development and Education, University of Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Esmée E Verhulp
- Department of Developmental Psychology, Utrecht University, The Netherlands
| | - Bram O De Castro
- Department of Developmental Psychology, Utrecht University, The Netherlands
- Research Institute of Child Development and Education, University of Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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24
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Ma L, Mor S, Anderson PL, Baños RM, Botella C, Bouchard S, Cárdenas-López G, Donker T, Fernández-Álvarez J, Lindner P, Mühlberger A, Powers MB, Quero S, Rothbaum B, Wiederhold BK, Carlbring P. Integrating virtual realities and psychotherapy: SWOT analysis on VR and MR based treatments of anxiety and stress-related disorders. Cogn Behav Ther 2021; 50:509-526. [PMID: 34342251 DOI: 10.1080/16506073.2021.1939410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
The use of virtual reality (VR) and mixed reality (MR) technology in clinical psychology is growing. Efficacious VR-based treatments for a variety of disorders have been developed. However, the field of technology-assisted psychotherapy is constantly changing with the advancement in technology. Factors such as interdisciplinary collaboration, consumer familiarity and adoption of VR products, and progress in clinical science all need to be taken into consideration when integrating virtual technologies into psychotherapies. We aim to present an overview of current expert opinions on the use of virtual technologies in the treatment of anxiety and stress-related disorders. An anonymous survey was distributed to a select group of researchers and clinicians, using an analytic framework known as Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats (SWOT). Overall, the respondents had an optimistic outlook regarding the current use as well as future development and implementation of technology-assisted interventions. VR and MR psychotherapies offer distinct advantages that can overcome shortcomings associated with traditional therapy. The respondents acknowledged and discussed current limitations of VR and MR psychotherapies. They recommended consolidation of existing knowledge and encouraged standardisation in both theory and practice. Continued research is needed to leverage the strengths of VR and MR to develop better treatments.Abbreviations: AR: Augmented Reality; MR: Mixed Reality; RCT: Randomised Controlled Trial; SWOT: Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats; VR: Virtual Reality; VR-EBT: Virtual Reality Exposure-Based Therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lichen Ma
- Department of Psychology, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Sonia Mor
- Department of Basic and Clinical Psychology and Psychobiology, Universitat Jaume I, Castellón, Spain
| | - Page L Anderson
- Department of Psychology, Georgia State University, Atlanta, USA
| | - Rosa M Baños
- Department of Personality, Evaluation and Psychological Treatment, Universitat de València, Valencia, Spain.,Instituto Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Cristina Botella
- Department of Basic and Clinical Psychology and Psychobiology, Universitat Jaume I, Castellón, Spain.,Instituto Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Stephane Bouchard
- Department of Psychoeducation and Psychology, Université du Québec en Outaouais, Gatineau, Canada
| | | | - Tara Donker
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Albert-LudwigsUniversität Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Javier Fernández-Álvarez
- Department of Basic and Clinical Psychology and Psychobiology, Universitat Jaume I, Castellón, Spain.,Department of Psychology, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Milan, Italy
| | - Philip Lindner
- Centre for Psychiatry Research, Karolinska Institutet & Stockholm Healthcare Services, Sweden
| | | | | | - Soledad Quero
- Department of Basic and Clinical Psychology and Psychobiology, Universitat Jaume I, Castellón, Spain.,Instituto Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Barbara Rothbaum
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University, Atlanta, USA
| | | | - Per Carlbring
- Department of Psychology, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
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25
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Rimer E, Husby LV, Solem S. Virtual Reality Exposure Therapy for Fear of Heights: Clinicians' Attitudes Become More Positive After Trying VRET. Front Psychol 2021; 12:671871. [PMID: 34335386 PMCID: PMC8319686 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.671871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2021] [Accepted: 06/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Virtual reality exposure therapy (VRET) has the potential to solve logistic challenges when treating specific phobias. However, VRET has yet to see a large-scale implementation in clinical settings despite positive findings in treatment trials. This may partly be due to attitudes and lack of experience among clinicians, but also because of expensive and stationary VR solutions. Objective This study tested whether modern, wireless, commercially available VR equipment with controller-free hand tracking could induce and reduce discomfort using scenarios designed for fear of heights. Also, the study tested if clinicians’ attitudes toward using VR in therapy changed after trying it themselves. Method Attitudes to using VR in therapy and discomfort ratings were assessed for 74 clinicians before and after completing two VR scenarios. In addition, 54 non-clinicians completed the same scenarios. Participants were not diagnosed with acrophobia. Results The VR scenarios induced discomfort comparable to participants’ reported fear of heights in real life. Repeated training reduced discomfort. Positive attitudes toward use of VR in therapy was predicted by previous experience with VR, as well as positive attitudes toward novel technology and exposure therapy. Clinicians’ attitudes became more favorable after trying VRET themselves. Clinicians reported a range of possible advantages and disadvantages of using VR in therapy. Conclusion VRET for fear of heights was able to induce and reduce discomfort in clinicians and non-clinicians, and clinicians’ attitudes toward using VRET become more positive after trying VRET for themselves. The latest generation of VR solutions has potential to improve clinical availability and treatment options. Future research should explore how VRET can be implemented in clinical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elise Rimer
- Department of Psychology, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Lars Vågsholm Husby
- Department of Psychology, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Stian Solem
- Department of Psychology, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
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26
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Bell IH, Nicholas J, Alvarez-Jimenez M, Thompson A, Valmaggia L. Virtual reality as a clinical tool in mental health research and practice
. DIALOGUES IN CLINICAL NEUROSCIENCE 2021; 22:169-177. [PMID: 32699517 PMCID: PMC7366939 DOI: 10.31887/dcns.2020.22.2/lvalmaggia] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Virtual reality (VR) is a potentially powerful technology for enhancing assessment
in mental health. At any time or place, individuals can be transported into immersive
and interactive virtual worlds that are fully controlled by the researcher or clinician.
This capability is central to recent interest in how VR might be harnessed in both
treatment and assessment of mental health conditions. The current review provides a
summary of the advantages of using VR for assessment in mental health, focusing on
increasing ecological validity of highly controlled environments, enhancing
personalization and engagement, and capturing real-time, automated data in real-world
contexts. Considerations for the implementation of VR in research and clinical settings
are discussed, including current issues with cost and access, developing evidence base,
technical challenges, and ethical implications. The opportunities and challenges of VR
are important to understand as researchers and clinicians look to harness this
technology to improve mental health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Imogen H Bell
- Orygen, Melbourne, Australia; Centre for Youth Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Australia
| | - Jennifer Nicholas
- Orygen, Melbourne, Australia; Centre for Youth Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Australia
| | - Mario Alvarez-Jimenez
- Orygen, Melbourne, Australia; Centre for Youth Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Australia
| | - Andrew Thompson
- Orygen, Melbourne, Australia; Centre for Youth Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Australia; University of Warwick - Division of Mental Health and Wellbeing, University of Warwick, UK
| | - Lucia Valmaggia
- King's College London, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, London, UK; South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
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27
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Best P, Meireles M, Schroeder F, Montgomery L, Maddock A, Davidson G, Galway K, Trainor D, Campbell A, Van Daele T. Freely Available Virtual Reality Experiences as Tools to Support Mental Health Therapy: a Systematic Scoping Review and Consensus Based Interdisciplinary Analysis. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2021; 7:100-114. [PMID: 34179349 PMCID: PMC8219512 DOI: 10.1007/s41347-021-00214-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2020] [Revised: 05/17/2021] [Accepted: 05/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The primary purpose of this article is to review the potential therapeutic value of freely available VR content as an addition to the practitioners ‘toolkit’. Research has shown that virtual reality (VR) may be useful to extend existing guided imagery-based practices found in traditional mental health therapy. However, the use of VR technology within routine mental health practice remains low, despite recent reductions in equipment costs. A systematic scoping review and interdisciplinary analysis of freely available VR experiences was performed across two popular online databases (SteamVR and Oculus.com). A total of 1785 experiences were retrieved and screened for relevance with 46 meeting the inclusion criteria. VR content was then reviewed for potential therapeutic value by an interdisciplinary panel with experience across a number of therapeutic interventions including cognitive behavioural therapy, Rogerian counselling, mindfulness-based therapies. and family therapy. Eleven (22%) of the 50 freely available VR experiences were reported to have therapeutic potential as tools to support routine mental health therapy. These included support with the following mental health issues—low mood, social anxiety, stress reduction and fear of heights. Guidance of a qualified mental health practitioner was recommended in all cases to maximise the benefit of the VR experiences retrieved. While the quality is variable, freely available VR experiences may contain valuable content that could support mental health therapy. This includes as a homework activity or as an initial setting for case formulation and behavioural experiments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Best
- School of Social Sciences, Education and Social Work, Queen's University, Belfast, Northern Ireland.,The Immersive Technologies and Digital Mental Health Network, Queen's University, Belfast, Northern Ireland
| | - Matilde Meireles
- Sonic Arts Research Centre (SARC), Queen's University, Belfast, Northern Ireland.,The Immersive Technologies and Digital Mental Health Network, Queen's University, Belfast, Northern Ireland
| | - Franziska Schroeder
- Sonic Arts Research Centre (SARC), Queen's University, Belfast, Northern Ireland.,The Immersive Technologies and Digital Mental Health Network, Queen's University, Belfast, Northern Ireland
| | - Lorna Montgomery
- School of Social Sciences, Education and Social Work, Queen's University, Belfast, Northern Ireland.,The Immersive Technologies and Digital Mental Health Network, Queen's University, Belfast, Northern Ireland
| | - Alan Maddock
- School of Social Sciences, Education and Social Work, Queen's University, Belfast, Northern Ireland.,The Immersive Technologies and Digital Mental Health Network, Queen's University, Belfast, Northern Ireland
| | - Gavin Davidson
- School of Social Sciences, Education and Social Work, Queen's University, Belfast, Northern Ireland.,The Immersive Technologies and Digital Mental Health Network, Queen's University, Belfast, Northern Ireland
| | - Karen Galway
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Queen's University, Belfast, Northern Ireland.,The Immersive Technologies and Digital Mental Health Network, Queen's University, Belfast, Northern Ireland
| | - David Trainor
- Sentireal Ltd, Belfast, Northern Ireland.,The Immersive Technologies and Digital Mental Health Network, Queen's University, Belfast, Northern Ireland
| | - Anne Campbell
- School of Social Sciences, Education and Social Work, Queen's University, Belfast, Northern Ireland.,The Immersive Technologies and Digital Mental Health Network, Queen's University, Belfast, Northern Ireland
| | - Tom Van Daele
- Expertise Unit Psychology, Technology & Society, Thomas More University of Applied Sciences, Antwerp, Belgium.,The Immersive Technologies and Digital Mental Health Network, Queen's University, Belfast, Northern Ireland
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28
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Skeva R, Gregg L, Jay C, Pettifer S. Views of Practitioners and Researchers on the Use of Virtual Reality in Treatments for Substance Use Disorders. Front Psychol 2021; 12:606761. [PMID: 34093303 PMCID: PMC8175665 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.606761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2020] [Accepted: 04/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Virtual Reality Therapy (VRT) has been shown to be effective in treating anxiety disorders and phobias, but has not yet been widely tested for Substance Use Disorders (SUDs) and it is not known whether health care practitioners working with SUDs would use VRT if it were available. We report the results of an interview study exploring practitioners’ and researchers’ views on the utility of VRT for SUD treatment. Practitioners and researchers with at least two years’ experience delivering or researching and designing SUD treatments were recruited (n = 14). Interviews were thematically analyzed, resulting in themes relating to the safety and realism of VRT, and the opportunity for the additional insight it could offer to during SUD treatment. Participants were positive about employing VRT as an additional treatment for SUD. VRT was thought suitable for treating adults and people with mental health issues or trauma, provided that risks were appropriately managed. Subsequent relapse, trauma and over-confidence in the success of treatment were identified as risks. The opportunity VRT offered to include other actors in therapy (via avatar use), and observe reactions, were benefits that could not currently be achieved with other forms of therapy. Overall, VRT was thought to offer the potential for safe, realistic, personalized and insightful exposure to diverse triggering scenarios, and to be acceptable for integration into a wide range of SUD treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rigina Skeva
- Department of Computer Science, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Advanced Interfaces-Visual Computing, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Lynsey Gregg
- School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Division of Psychology and Mental Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Caroline Jay
- Department of Computer Science, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Information Management, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Steve Pettifer
- Department of Computer Science, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Advanced Interfaces-Visual Computing, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
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29
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Advances in immersive virtual reality interventions for mental disorders: A new reality? Curr Opin Psychol 2021; 41:40-45. [PMID: 33714892 DOI: 10.1016/j.copsyc.2021.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2020] [Revised: 01/11/2021] [Accepted: 02/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Immersive virtual reality (VR) has been identified as a potentially revolutionary tool for psychological interventions. This study reviews current advances in immersive VR-based therapies for mental disorders. VR has the potential to make psychiatric treatments better and more cost-effective and to make them available to a larger group of patients. However, this may require a new generation of VR therapeutic techniques that use the full potential of VR, such as embodiment, and self-led interventions. VR-based interventions are promising, but further well-designed studies are needed that use novel techniques and investigate efficacy, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness of VR interventions compared with current treatments. This will be crucial for implementation and dissemination of VR in regular clinical practice.
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30
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Bentz D, Wang N, Ibach MK, Schicktanz NS, Zimmer A, Papassotiropoulos A, de Quervain DJF. Effectiveness of a stand-alone, smartphone-based virtual reality exposure app to reduce fear of heights in real-life: a randomized trial. NPJ Digit Med 2021; 4:16. [PMID: 33558625 PMCID: PMC7870885 DOI: 10.1038/s41746-021-00387-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2020] [Accepted: 01/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Smartphone-based virtual reality (VR) applications (apps) might help to counter low utilization rates of available treatments for fear of heights. Demonstration of effectiveness in real-life situations of such apps is crucial, but lacking so far. Objective of this study was to develop a stand-alone, smartphone-based VR exposure app-Easy Heights-and to test its effectiveness in a real-life situation. We performed a single-blind, parallel group, randomized controlled trial. We recruited 70 participants with fear of heights, aged 18-60 years. Primary outcome was performance in a real-life Behavioral Avoidance Test (BAT) on a lookout tower after a single 1-h app use (phase 1) and after additional repeated (6 × 30 min) app use at home (phase 2). After phase 2, but not phase 1, participants in the Easy Heights condition showed significantly higher BAT scores compared to participants in the control condition (Cohen's d = 1.3, p = 0.0001). Repeated use of our stand-alone, smartphone-based VR exposure app reduces avoidance behavior and fear, providing a low-threshold treatment for fear of heights.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dorothée Bentz
- Division of Cognitive Neuroscience, Faculty of Psychology, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland.,Transfaculty Research Platform, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Nan Wang
- Division of Cognitive Neuroscience, Faculty of Psychology, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland.,Transfaculty Research Platform, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Merle K Ibach
- Division of Cognitive Neuroscience, Faculty of Psychology, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland.,Transfaculty Research Platform, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Nathalie S Schicktanz
- Division of Cognitive Neuroscience, Faculty of Psychology, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland.,Transfaculty Research Platform, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Anja Zimmer
- Division of Cognitive Neuroscience, Faculty of Psychology, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland.,Transfaculty Research Platform, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Andreas Papassotiropoulos
- Transfaculty Research Platform, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland.,Division of Molecular Neuroscience, Faculty of Psychology, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland.,Life Sciences Training Facility, Department Biozentrum, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland.,University Psychiatric Clinics, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Dominique J F de Quervain
- Division of Cognitive Neuroscience, Faculty of Psychology, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland. .,Transfaculty Research Platform, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland. .,University Psychiatric Clinics, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland.
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31
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Hernandez R, Burrows B, Browning MH, Solai K, Fast D, Litbarg NO, Wilund KR, Moskowitz JT. Mindfulness-based Virtual Reality Intervention in Hemodialysis Patients: A Pilot Study on End-user Perceptions and Safety. KIDNEY360 2021; 2:435-444. [PMID: 35369024 PMCID: PMC8786010 DOI: 10.34067/kid.0005522020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2020] [Accepted: 01/07/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Background Virtual reality (VR) is an evolving technology that is becoming a common treatment for pain management and psychologic phobias. Although nonimmersive devices (e.g., the Nintendo Wii) have been previously tested with patients on hemodialysis, no studies to date have used fully immersive VR as a tool for intervention delivery. This pilot trial tests the initial safety, acceptability, and utility of VR during maintenance hemodialysis treatment sessions-particularly, whether VR triggers motion sickness that mimics or negatively effects treatment-related symptoms (e.g., nausea). Methods Patients on hemodialysis (n=20) were enrolled in a phase 1 single-arm proof-of-concept trial. While undergoing hemodialysis, participants were exposed to our new Joviality VR program. This 25-minute program delivers mindfulness training and guided meditation using the Oculus Rift head-mounted display. Participants experienced the program on two separate occasions. Before and immediately after exposure, participants recorded motion-related symptoms and related discomfort on the Simulator Sickness Questionnaire. Utility measures included the end-user's ability to be fully immersed in the virtual space, interact with virtual objects, find hardware user friendly, and easily navigate the Joviality program with the System Usability Scale. Results Mean age was 55.3 (±13.1) years; 80% male; 60% Black; and mean dialysis vintage was 3.56 (±3.75) years. At the first session, there were significant decreases in treatment and/or motion-related symptoms after VR exposure (22.6 versus 11.2; P=0.03); scores >20 indicate problematic immersion. Hemodialysis end-users reported high levels of immersion in the VR environment and rated the software easy to operate, with average System Usability Scale scores of 82.8 out of 100. Conclusions Patients on hemodialysis routinely suffer from fatigue, nausea, lightheadedness, and headaches that often manifest during their dialysis sessions. Our Joviality VR program decreased symptom severity without adverse effects. VR programs may be a safe platform to improve the experience of patients on dialysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosalba Hernandez
- School of Social Work, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois
| | - Brett Burrows
- College of Applied Health Sciences, Department of Kinesiology and Community Health, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois
| | - Matthew H.E.M. Browning
- Virtual Reality and Nature Lab, Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism Management, College of Behavioral, Social and Health Sciences, Clemson University, Clemson, South Carolina
| | - Killivalavan Solai
- Center for Innovation in Teaching and Learning, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois
| | - Drew Fast
- Center for Innovation in Teaching and Learning, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois
| | - Natalia O. Litbarg
- Division of Nephrology, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Kenneth R. Wilund
- College of Applied Health Sciences, Department of Kinesiology and Community Health, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois
| | - Judith T. Moskowitz
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
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32
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Lindner P, Dafgård P, Miloff A, Andersson G, Reuterskiöld L, Hamilton W, Carlbring P. Is Continued Improvement After Automated Virtual Reality Exposure Therapy for Spider Phobia Explained by Subsequent in-vivo Exposure? A First Test of the Lowered Threshold Hypothesis. Front Psychiatry 2021; 12:645273. [PMID: 34093267 PMCID: PMC8174706 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.645273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2020] [Accepted: 04/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Consumer Virtual Reality (VR) technology offers a powerful, immersive medium for scalable dissemination of mental health interventions. Decades of research has shown VR exposure therapy to be efficacious in the treatment of anxiety disorders and that the fear reduction generalizes to real-world stimuli. Many studies also report continued improvement over time, after discontinuing VR use. The lowered threshold hypothesis states that this continued improvement is moderated by lowering the threshold to conduct subsequent in-vivo exposure. The current study is the first to formally test this hypothesis, using data from a recent trial on automated VR exposure therapy for spider phobia, in which participants (n = 49) were followed for 1 year, completing assessments 1 week, 3 and 12 months post-treatment. The assessment included validated self-report of phobia symptoms, a standardized behavioral approach test featuring a real spider, and a questionnaire for self-reporting frequency of in-vivo exposures since last assessment. Number of in-vivo exposures was found to be independently associated with greater symptom decrease in longitudinal outcome models. In sequential structural equation models, immediate post-treatment symptom reduction was associated with subsequent in-vivo exposures, which in turn was associated with continued symptom reduction. However, this applied only to self-reported phobia symptoms (not behavioral avoidance) and no associations were found past 3 months. Our findings offer preliminary, partial support for the lowered threshold hypothesis, suggesting that VR exposure interventions may benefit from including explicit in-virtuo to in-vivo transitioning components.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip Lindner
- Department of Psychology, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden.,Centre for Psychiatry Research, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet & Stockholm Health Care Services, Region Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Peter Dafgård
- Department of Psychology, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Alexander Miloff
- Department of Psychology, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Gerhard Andersson
- Centre for Psychiatry Research, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet & Stockholm Health Care Services, Region Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Behavioral Sciences and Learning, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden.,Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Lena Reuterskiöld
- Department of Psychology, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden.,Centre for Psychiatry Research, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet & Stockholm Health Care Services, Region Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
| | | | - Per Carlbring
- Department of Psychology, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
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33
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Chung OS, Robinson T, Johnson AM, Dowling NL, Ng CH, Yücel M, Segrave RA. Implementation of Therapeutic Virtual Reality Into Psychiatric Care: Clinicians' and Service Managers' Perspectives. Front Psychiatry 2021; 12:791123. [PMID: 35058823 PMCID: PMC8764380 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.791123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2021] [Accepted: 12/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives: Virtual reality (VR) has emerged as a highly promising tool for assessing and treating a range of mental illnesses. However, little is known about the perspectives of key stakeholders in mental healthcare, whose support will be critical for its successful implementation into routine clinical practise. This study aimed to explore the perspectives of staff working in the private mental health sector around the use of therapeutic VR, including potential implementation barriers and facilitators. Methods: Semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted with cross-disciplinary clinicians (n = 14) and service managers (n = 5), aged 28-70 years working in a major private mental health hospital in Victoria, Australia. Transcripts were analysed using general inductive coding to allow themes to naturally emerge. Results: Three major themes were identified: clinical factors (four subthemes), organisational factors (five subthemes), and professional factors (three subthemes). The themes encompassed enabling factors and potential barriers that need to be addressed for successful implementation of VR. Clinical factors highlighted the influence of knowledge or perceptions about appropriate clinical applications, therapeutic efficacy, safety and ethical concerns, and patient engagement. Organisational factors emphasised the importance of service contexts, including having a strong business case, stakeholder planning, recruitment of local opinion leaders to champion change, and an understanding of resourcing challenges. Professional factors highlighted the need for education and training for staff, and the influence of staff attitudes towards technology and perceived usability of VR. Conclusions: In addition to enabling factors, potential implementation barriers of therapeutic VR were identified, including resourcing constraints, safety and ethical concerns, negative staff attitudes towards technology and VR system limitations. Future dissemination should focus on addressing knowledge and skills gaps and attitudinal barriers through development of clinical guidelines, training programs, and implementation resources (e.g., adoption decision tools, consultation opportunities).
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivia S Chung
- BrainPark, Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health and Monash Biomedical Imaging Facility, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Tracy Robinson
- School of Nursing, Paramedicine and Healthcare Sciences, Charles Sturt University, Bathurst, NSW, Australia
| | - Alisha M Johnson
- BrainPark, Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health and Monash Biomedical Imaging Facility, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Nathan L Dowling
- Professorial Unit, Department of Psychiatry, The Melbourne Clinic, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Chee H Ng
- Professorial Unit, Department of Psychiatry, The Melbourne Clinic, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Murat Yücel
- BrainPark, Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health and Monash Biomedical Imaging Facility, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Rebecca A Segrave
- BrainPark, Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health and Monash Biomedical Imaging Facility, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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34
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Anderson PL, Molloy A. Maximizing the impact of virtual reality exposure therapy for anxiety disorders. Curr Opin Psychol 2020; 36:153-157. [DOI: 10.1016/j.copsyc.2020.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2020] [Revised: 10/02/2020] [Accepted: 10/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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Abstract
AbstractVirtual reality (VR) is an immersive technology capable of creating a powerful, perceptual illusion of being present in a virtual environment. VR technology has been used in cognitive behavior therapy since the 1990s and accumulated an impressive evidence base, yet with the recent release of consumer VR platforms came a true paradigm shift in the capabilities and scalability of VR for mental health. This narrative review summarizes the past, present, and future of the field, including milestone studies and discussions on the clinical potential of alternative embodiment, gamification, avatar therapists, virtual gatherings, immersive storytelling, and more. Although the future is hard to predict, clinical VR has and will continue to be inherently intertwined with what are now rapid developments in technology, presenting both challenges and exciting opportunities to do what is not possible in the real world.
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Lindner P, Dagöö J, Hamilton W, Miloff A, Andersson G, Schill A, Carlbring P. Virtual Reality exposure therapy for public speaking anxiety in routine care: a single-subject effectiveness trial. Cogn Behav Ther 2020; 50:67-87. [PMID: 32870126 DOI: 10.1080/16506073.2020.1795240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Virtual Reality (VR) can be used as a therapeutic tool to conduct efficacious in-session exposure therapy by presenting virtual equivalents of phobic stimuli, yet past hardware restrictions hindered implementation in routine care and effectiveness studies. The current study examines the effectiveness of a VR-assisted treatment protocol for public speaking anxiety with demonstrated efficacy, this time in routine care, using affordable VR hardware. Participants (n = 23) were recruited via a private clinic and treated by one of four psychologists with only minimal VR-training. Using a single-subject design and dual-slope modeling (adjusting the treatment-onset slope for treatment effects), we found a significant, large decrease in self-rated public speaking anxiety following the primary three-hour session, similar in magnitude to the previous efficacy trial. Multilevel modeling of in-session process measures suggests that the protocol works as intended, by decreasing catastrophic belief expectancy and distress, and increasing perceived performance quality. Adherence to the online transition program that followed-encouraging in-vivo exposure-was relatively poor, yet symptoms decrease continued. No change was observed over the three-month follow-up period. We conclude that VR exposure therapy can be effective under routine care conditions and is an attractive approach for future, large-scale implementation and effectiveness trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip Lindner
- Department of Psychology, Stockholm University , Stockholm, Sweden.,Centre for Psychiatry Research, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, & Stockholm Health Care Services , Region Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
| | | | | | - Alexander Miloff
- Department of Psychology, Stockholm University , Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Gerhard Andersson
- Centre for Psychiatry Research, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, & Stockholm Health Care Services , Region Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Behavioural Sciences and Learning, Linköping University , Linköping, Sweden
| | | | - Per Carlbring
- Department of Psychology, Stockholm University , Stockholm, Sweden
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Smoktunowicz E, Barak A, Andersson G, Banos RM, Berger T, Botella C, Dear BF, Donker T, Ebert DD, Hadjistavropoulos H, Hodgins DC, Kaldo V, Mohr DC, Nordgreen T, Powers MB, Riper H, Ritterband LM, Rozental A, Schueller SM, Titov N, Weise C, Carlbring P. Consensus statement on the problem of terminology in psychological interventions using the internet or digital components. Internet Interv 2020; 21:100331. [PMID: 32577404 PMCID: PMC7305336 DOI: 10.1016/j.invent.2020.100331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2020] [Revised: 05/18/2020] [Accepted: 05/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Since the emergence of psychological interventions delivered via the Internet they have differed in numerous ways. The wealth of formats, methods, and technological solutions has led to increased availability and cost-effectiveness of clinical care, however, it has simultaneously generated a multitude of terms. With this paper, we first aim to establish whether a terminology issue exists in the field of Internet-delivered psychological interventions. If so, we aim to determine its implications for research, education, and practice. Furthermore, we intend to discuss solutions to mitigate the problem; in particular, we propose the concept of a common glossary. We invited 23 experts in the field of Internet-delivered interventions to respond to four questions, and employed the Delphi method to facilitate a discussion. We found that experts overwhelmingly agreed that there were terminological challenges, and that it had significant consequences for conducting research, treating patients, educating students, and informing the general public about Internet-delivered interventions. A cautious agreement has been reached that formulating a common glossary would be beneficial for the field to address the terminology issue. We end with recommendations for the possible formats of the glossary and means to disseminate it in a way that maximizes the probability of broad acceptance for a variety of stakeholders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ewelina Smoktunowicz
- Department of Psychology, SWPS University of Social Sciences and Humanities, Chodakowska 19, 31 03-815 Warsaw, Poland,Department of Psychology, Stockholm University, Frescati Hagvag 8, 114 19 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Azy Barak
- Department of Counseling and Human Development, University of Haifa, Israel
| | - Gerhard Andersson
- Department of Behavioural Sciences and Learning, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden,Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Rosa M. Banos
- Universidad de Valencia, Valencia, Spain,CIBER Fisiopatologia Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBEROBN), Instituto Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Thomas Berger
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, University of Bern, Switzerland
| | - Cristina Botella
- CIBER Fisiopatologia Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBEROBN), Instituto Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain,Uiversitat Jaume I, Valencia, Spain
| | - Blake F. Dear
- Department of Psychology, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
| | - Tara Donker
- Department of Clinical, Neuro and Developmental Psychology, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - David D. Ebert
- Faculty of Behavioural and Movement Sciences, Clinical, Neuro- & Developmental Psychology, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | | | | | - Viktor Kaldo
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Linnaeus University, Växjö, Sweden,Centre for Psychiatry Research, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, & Stockholm Health Care Services, Region Stockholm, Sweden
| | - David C. Mohr
- Center for Behavioral Intervention Technologies, Department of Preventive Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Tine Nordgreen
- Division of Psychiatry, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
| | | | - Heleen Riper
- Department of Clinical, Neuro and Developmental Psychology, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Lee M. Ritterband
- Center for Behavioral Health & Technology, Department of Psychiatry and Neurobehavioral Sciences, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Alexander Rozental
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden,Institute of Child Health, UCL, London, UK
| | - Stephen M. Schueller
- Department of Psychological Science, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Nickolai Titov
- Department of Psychology, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
| | - Cornelia Weise
- Department of Psychology, Division of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Philipps–University of Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - Per Carlbring
- Department of Psychology, Stockholm University, Frescati Hagvag 8, 114 19 Stockholm, Sweden,Corresponding author at: Department of Psychology, SE-106 91 Stockholm, Sweden.
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38
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Lindner P, Rozental A, Jurell A, Reuterskiöld L, Andersson G, Hamilton W, Miloff A, Carlbring P. Experiences of Gamified and Automated Virtual Reality Exposure Therapy for Spider Phobia: Qualitative Study. JMIR Serious Games 2020; 8:e17807. [PMID: 32347803 PMCID: PMC7221644 DOI: 10.2196/17807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2020] [Revised: 02/25/2020] [Accepted: 03/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Virtual reality exposure therapy is an efficacious treatment of anxiety disorders, and recent research suggests that such treatments can be automated, relying on gamification elements instead of a real-life therapist directing treatment. Such automated, gamified treatments could be disseminated without restrictions, helping to close the treatment gap for anxiety disorders. Despite initial findings suggesting high efficacy, very is little is known about how users experience this type of intervention. Objective The aim of this study was to examine user experiences of automated, gamified virtual reality exposure therapy using in-depth qualitative methods. Methods Seven participants were recruited from a parallel clinical trial comparing automated, gamified virtual reality exposure therapy for spider phobia against an in vivo exposure equivalent. Participants received the same virtual reality treatment as in the trial and completed a semistructured interview afterward. The transcribed material was analyzed using thematic analysis. Results Many of the uncovered themes pertained directly or indirectly to a sense of presence in the virtual environment, both positive and negative. The automated format was perceived as natural and the gamification elements appear to have been successful in framing the experience not as psychotherapy devoid of a therapist but rather as a serious game with a psychotherapeutic goal. Conclusions Automated, gamified virtual reality exposure therapy appears to be an appealing treatment modality and to work by the intended mechanisms. Findings from the current study may guide the next generation of interventions and inform dissemination efforts and future qualitative research into user experiences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip Lindner
- Department of Psychology, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden.,Center for Psychiatry Research, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet & Stockholm Health Care Services, Region Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Alexander Rozental
- Center for Psychiatry Research, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet & Stockholm Health Care Services, Region Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Alice Jurell
- Department of Psychology, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Lena Reuterskiöld
- Department of Psychology, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden.,Center for Psychiatry Research, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet & Stockholm Health Care Services, Region Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Gerhard Andersson
- Center for Psychiatry Research, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet & Stockholm Health Care Services, Region Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Behavioral Sciences and Learning, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | | | - Alexander Miloff
- Department of Psychology, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Per Carlbring
- Department of Psychology, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
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Brown T, Nauman Vogel E, Adler S, Bohon C, Bullock K, Nameth K, Riva G, Safer DL, Runfola CD. Bringing Virtual Reality From Clinical Trials to Clinical Practice for the Treatment of Eating Disorders: An Example Using Virtual Reality Cue Exposure Therapy. J Med Internet Res 2020; 22:e16386. [PMID: 32324145 PMCID: PMC7206518 DOI: 10.2196/16386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2019] [Revised: 12/07/2019] [Accepted: 12/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Novel treatment options for eating disorders (EDs) are critically needed to enhance treatment outcomes and reduce the rates of treatment dropouts. On average, only 50% of individuals receiving evidence-based care remit, whereas 24% drop out before treatment completion. One particularly promising direction involves integrating virtual reality (VR) with existing evidence-based treatments (EBTs) such as cue exposure therapy (CET). Across psychiatric disorders, VR-based interventions are demonstrating at least preliminary efficacy and noninferiority to traditional treatments. Furthermore, VR technology has become increasingly portable, resulting in improved acceptance, increased access, and reductions in cost. However, more efficient research processes may be needed to uncover the potential benefits of these rapid technological advances. This viewpoint paper reviews existing empirical support for integrating VR with EBTs (with a focus on its use with EDs) and proposes key next steps to more rapidly bring this innovative technology-based intervention into real-world clinic settings, as warranted. VR-CET for EDs is used to illustrate a suggested process for developing such treatment enhancements. We recommend following a deployment-focused model of intervention development and testing to enable rapid implementation of robust, practice-ready treatments. In addition, our review highlights the need for a comprehensive clinical protocol that supports clinicians and researchers in the implementation and testing of VR-CET and identifies key missing protocol components with rationale for their inclusion. Ultimately, this work may lead to a more complete understanding of the full potential of the applications and integrations of VR into mental health care globally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theresa Brown
- PGSP-Stanford PsyD Consortium, Palo Alto, CA, United States
| | | | - Sarah Adler
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, United States
| | - Cara Bohon
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, United States
| | - Kim Bullock
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, United States
| | - Katherine Nameth
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, United States
| | - Giuseppe Riva
- Applied Technology for Neuro-Psychology Lab, Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Milan, Italy.,Centro Studi e Ricerche di Psicologia della Comunicazione, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Milan, Italy
| | - Debra L Safer
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, United States
| | - Cristin D Runfola
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, United States
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Nolet K, Corno G, Bouchard S. The Adoption of New Treatment Modalities by Health Professionals and the Relative Weight of Empirical Evidence in Favor of Virtual Reality Exposure Versus Mindfulness in the Treatment of Anxiety Disorders. Front Hum Neurosci 2020; 14:86. [PMID: 32269517 PMCID: PMC7109262 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2020.00086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2019] [Accepted: 02/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Anxiety disorders are among the most prevalent mental disorders, and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) with exposure exercises is considered as the gold-standard psychological intervention. New psychotherapeutic modalities have emerged in the last decade and, among them, mindfulness has been rapidly adopted by therapists. The adoption rate is slower for the use of virtual reality (VR) to conduct exposure. The goal of the present position paper is to contrast, for the treatment of anxiety disorders, the weight of empirical evidences supporting the use of exposure in VR with the use of mindfulness-based therapy (MBT). Based on the most recent meta-analyses, we found that CBT with exposure conducted in VR was more thoroughly researched and supported than MBT, receiving validation from roughly twice as many studies with high control (i.e., randomized, active controls with clinical samples). However, this conclusion is nuanced by reviewing gaps in the literature for both therapies. Potential factors influencing clinicians' choice of treatment and suggestions for future research directions are proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Nolet
- Cyberpsychology Laboratory of UQO, Department of Psychoeducation and Psychology, Université du Québec en Outaouais, Gatineau, QC, Canada
| | - Giulia Corno
- Cyberpsychology Laboratory of UQO, Department of Psychoeducation and Psychology, Université du Québec en Outaouais, Gatineau, QC, Canada
- LabPsiTec, Departamento de Personalidad, Evaluación y Tratamientos Psicológicos, Universitat de València, Valencia, Spain
| | - Stéphane Bouchard
- Cyberpsychology Laboratory of UQO, Department of Psychoeducation and Psychology, Université du Québec en Outaouais, Gatineau, QC, Canada
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Fernández-Álvarez J, Di Lernia D, Riva G. Virtual Reality for Anxiety Disorders: Rethinking a Field in Expansion. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2020; 1191:389-414. [PMID: 32002939 DOI: 10.1007/978-981-32-9705-0_21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The principal aim to this chapter is to present the latest ideas in virtual reality (VR), some of which have already been applied to the field of anxiety disorders, and others are still pending to be materialized. More than 20 years ago, VR emerged as an exposure tool in order to provide patients and therapists with more appealing ways of delivering a technique that was undoubtedly effective but also rejected and thus underused. Throughout these years, many improvements were achieved. The first section of the chapter describes those improvements, both considering the research progresses and the applications in the real world. In a second part, our main interest is to expand the discussion of the new applications of VR beyond its already known role as an exposure tool. In particular, VR is enabling the materialization of numerous ideas that were previously confined to a merely philosophical discussion in the field of cognitive sciences. That is, VR has the enormous potential of providing feasible ways to explore nonclassical ways of cognition, such as embodied and situated information processing. Despite the fact that many of these developments are not fully developed, and not specifically designed for anxiety disorders, we want to introduce these new ideas in a context in which VR is experiencing an enormous transformation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Giuseppe Riva
- Universita Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Milan, Italy. .,ATN-P Lab, Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Milan, Italy.
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42
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Lindner P, Miloff A, Bergman C, Andersson G, Hamilton W, Carlbring P. Gamified, Automated Virtual Reality Exposure Therapy for Fear of Spiders: A Single-Subject Trial Under Simulated Real-World Conditions. Front Psychiatry 2020; 11:116. [PMID: 32210850 PMCID: PMC7069224 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2020.00116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2019] [Accepted: 02/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Virtual Reality exposure therapy (VRET) is an evidence-based treatment of phobias and recent research suggests that this applies also to self-contained, automated interventions requiring no therapist guidance. With the advent and growing adoption of consumer VR technology, automated VR intervention have the potential to close the considerable treatment gap for specific phobias through dissemination as consumer applications, self-help at clinics, or as blended treatment. There is however a lack of translational effectiveness studies on VRET treatment effects under real-world conditions. METHODS We conducted a single-arm (n = 25), single-subject study of automated, gamified VRET for fear of spiders, under simulated real-world conditions. After setup and reading instructions, participants completed the automated, single-session treatment by themselves. Self-rated fear of spiders and quality of life served as outcome measures, measured twice before, and one and two weeks after treatment, and at a six-month follow-up. Session characteristics and user experience measures were collected at the end of the session. RESULTS Mixed-effects modeling revealed a significant and large (d = 1.26) effect of treatment-onset on phobia symptoms (p < .001), and a small (d = 0.49) effect on quality of life (p = .025). Results were maintained at a six-month follow-up (p > .053). The intervention was tolerable and practical. There were no significant correlations between any user experience measure and decrease in phobia symptoms (p > .209). CONCLUSIONS An automated VRET intervention for fear of spiders showed equivalent effects on phobia symptoms under effectiveness conditions as previously reported under efficacy conditions. These results suggest that automated VRET applications are promising self-help treatments also when provided under real-world conditions. PRE-REGISTRATION Open Science Foundation, https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/78GUB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip Lindner
- Department of Psychology, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden.,Centre for Psychiatry Research, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet & Stockholm Health Care Services, Stockholm County Council, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Alexander Miloff
- Department of Psychology, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Camilla Bergman
- Department of Psychology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Gerhard Andersson
- Centre for Psychiatry Research, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet & Stockholm Health Care Services, Stockholm County Council, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Behavioral Sciences and Learning, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | | | - Per Carlbring
- Department of Psychology, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
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Automated virtual reality exposure therapy for spider phobia vs. in-vivo one-session treatment: A randomized non-inferiority trial. Behav Res Ther 2019; 118:130-140. [DOI: 10.1016/j.brat.2019.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2018] [Revised: 01/23/2019] [Accepted: 04/09/2019] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
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