VR in CBT: New Solutions Make Virtual Exposure More Accessible

'VRET' has become a cheaper and accessible option for CBT therapists and their clients.

When working with phobias, you've likely faced this challenge: how do you create realistic exposure scenarios when a feared situation can't be easily replicated? Now, emerging virtual reality solutions are not just offering an answer - they're more accessible than you might think.

The Exposure Challenge

Traditional exposure therapy often relies on pictures, videos, or imaginal exposure, if we can’t replicate the real thing. But showing a client photos of airplanes or festival crowds can fall short of creating the immersive experience needed for effective treatment.

While VR has proven effective for exposure therapy¹ the high cost of VR headsets has kept this tool out of reach for many practitioners, and the NHS.

A New Approach