How does VR therapy help patients with anxiety, PTSD, and ADHD? Valery Kravitz shares practical insights from IsraClinic's integrative psychiatric practice.
Virtual reality in psychiatry opens the door to safe, guided exposure that helps reduce fear and increases a patient’s willingness to engage. It is especially useful for individuals who find traditional therapeutic approaches overwhelming or ineffective.
Introduction
Modern psychiatry is evolving rapidly, integrating new technologies that enhance therapeutic effectiveness. Among the most promising developments is the clinical use of virtual reality (VR). VR therapy is not just a technological novelty—it is an evidence-based method for treating anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and ADHD.
Virtual reality in psychiatry opens the door to safe, guided exposure that helps reduce fear and increases a patient’s willingness to engage. It is especially useful for individuals who find traditional therapeutic approaches overwhelming or ineffective.
What Is VR Therapy and How Does It Work?
VR therapy involves the use of immersive environments created through VR equipment. Patients are guided through realistic, controlled simulations that reflect anxiety-inducing or stressful scenarios.
Under the supervision of a trained therapist, the patient:
confronts challenging situations in a controlled environment,
practices emotional regulation,
learns to reduce reactive behaviors to stress triggers.
This approach is personalized, adaptable, and structured to match each individual’s therapeutic goals.
Clinical Indications
VR therapy is integrated into broader psychotherapeutic protocols and is particularly effective in the following cases:
Anxiety disorders, including phobias and social anxiety
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Depression with emotional rigidity
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
Autism spectrum disorders (social skills training)
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD in adults and children)
Case Examples from Clinical Practice
Case 1: PTSD and social anxiety in a 26-year-old male Following trauma during military service, the patient experienced panic attacks, social withdrawal, and hypervigilance. VR therapy supported the initial phase of treatment by offering safe exposure to symbolic representations of the traumatic context. This eased his transition to deeper psychotherapeutic work.
Case 2: Generalized anxiety in a 28-year-old female Struggling with persistent social anxiety and low self-confidence, the patient underwent a combined approach of art therapy and psychotherapy. VR scenarios simulated everyday social settings, helping her gradually build confidence and emotional resilience.
Advantages of Virtual Reality in Therapy
Safe exposure: Simulations allow patients to confront fears in a non-threatening, controlled way.
Personalization: Sessions can be tailored in intensity and complexity.
Increased engagement: Patients often feel more motivated and open to this form of therapy.
Complementary role: VR enhances traditional approaches without replacing them.
Comprehensive Application at IsraClinic
In my practice at IsraClinic, VR therapy is incorporated into personalized treatment plans. It is particularly effective for patients with avoidance behaviors or high anxiety.
We combine VR with evidence-based psychotherapeutic models, medication (when needed), and structured ADHD diagnostics using tools like the MOXO CPT. This integrative method promotes measurable, sustainable improvement.
Conclusion
VR therapy is not a trend—it is a clinically validated tool that helps patients overcome emotional barriers and build healthier responses. Virtual reality in psychiatry empowers patients to regain control and participate actively in their healing journey.
About the Author
Valery Kravitz is an art therapist, a specialist in diagnosing ADHD in children and adults, and a certified VR therapy practitioner (Amelia Virtual Care). He is the founder and director of IsraClinic, a center combining high-level diagnostic precision, emotional-focused therapy, and cutting-edge technological solutions.
Author: IsraClinic – Expert Mental Health Clinic