A case series in using virtual-reality assisted CBTp for social difficulties in psychosis - 04/02/25

Abstract |
Intro |
People with psychosis often experience social difficulties associated with psychological processes, such as fear of harm or negative evaluation from others. Virtual reality presents a unique opportunity to use social environments in therapy. This study presents a case-series of virtual-reality assisted cognitive behavioural therapy (VR-CBTp) for people with first episode psychosis (FEP) who are experiencing social difficulties. It aimed to evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of this novel therapy in real-world clinical settings.
Methods |
Eight eligible participants were recruited and received a course of 10 sessions of individual formulation-driven VR-CBTp with a focus on improving social functioning. A novel VR environment and therapy package were piloted for the use of the assessment, formulation and treatment of social difficulties. Psychometric assessments were conducted pre- and post-therapy, and participants provided qualitative feedback about their experiences.
Results |
The results provided preliminary information to suggest that the therapy was feasible and acceptable, recruiting to target and with good participant retention. Pre-post comparison of treatment outcomes revealed a reliable change on some of the assessed domains, indicating participants experienced clinical benefits from the therapy.
Conclusion |
The inclusion of VR into a course of CBTp for people with psychosis who experience social difficulties was found to be feasible and acceptable with potential therapeutic benefits. A number of challenges to implementation in real-world clinical settings and future directions were identified.
Le texte complet de cet article est disponible en PDF.Keywords : Virtual-reality, Psychosis, Early intervention, Social difficulties, Paranoia, Social anxiety
Plan
Vol 35 - N° 1
Article 100519- février 2025 Retour au numéroBienvenue sur EM-consulte, la référence des professionnels de santé.
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