VR-Assisted Therapy

What is VR-assisted exposure therapy?

Exposure therapy is a psychological treatment developed to help people confront fears and reduce avoidance patterns over time. Virtual reality can be used as a form of exposure (often called VRET) when in-vivo exposure isn't practical or needs more control over the scenario and intensity.

In VR-assisted exposure therapy, a therapist helps you approach feared situations or triggers gradually, often organized into a graded “hierarchy.” The pace is collaborative and can be adjusted to match readiness, comfort, and clinical considerations.

Who might it be for?

VR-based exposure approaches are most commonly studied for anxiety-related concerns where avoidance plays a major role, such as specific phobias and social/performance anxiety. Examples where VR-assisted exposure may be used (depending on clinician competence and fit) include fear of heights, fear of flying, fear of enclosed spaces, and practice in simulated social or performance situations.

VR-assisted exposure therapy is not the right fit for everyone, and it is not an emergency service. If you are in immediate danger, call 911.

What does the research say?

Systematic reviews and meta-analyses report that VR therapy and VR-based exposure can reduce anxiety symptoms compared with passive control or waitlist conditions, while also noting variability in study quality and protocols. Researchers note the need for standardization and more high-quality trials to clarify when and for whom VR exposure adds the most value.

Comfort and safety considerations

Some people experience “cybersickness” during or after VR use, which can include nausea, dizziness, headache, eyestrain, disorientation, and fatigue. In practice, VR-assisted exposure is typically paced, with options for breaks and adjustments if discomfort occurs. Sessions should stop if symptoms become significant.

Suitability and informed consent

Before starting VR-assisted exposure therapy, we review whether VR is appropriate for your goals, comfort, and safety, along with benefits, limitations, and potential risks, and confirm informed consent before proceeding.

Availability

VR-Assisted Therapy is only available at Brampton Location To explore whether VR-Assisted Therapy is a fit for your goals, book a free 15‑minute phone/video consultation.

VR‑assisted exposure therapy is not an emergency service. If you are in immediate danger, call 911.