The Clinician’s Guide to Adopting VR Therapy: Tools and Training

By Anam Adil, Contributing Author

Virtual Reality Exposure Therapy (VRET) is gaining traction in clinical settings, offering innovative treatment options for anxiety disorders, PTSD, and more. If you're a clinician curious about integrating VR therapy into your practice, this guide will help you understand the available software options and how to get trained in using them effectively.

VR Software for Clinical Use

Several VR programs cater specifically to mental health treatment, each designed with unique features to support evidence-based therapies.

• XRHealth – A comprehensive VRET platform offering scenarios for mindfulness, pain management, cognitive training, neuro rehabilitation, and mental health. 

• OxfordVR – Backed by research, this software focuses on treating social anxiety, depression, and psychosis with automated, therapist-guided VR therapy.

• Limbix – A mobile-based VR therapy tool providing exposure therapy modules for anxiety, trauma, and stress-related disorders.

• XRHealth – A telehealth-compatible VR platform offering therapy for stress management, ADHD, and chronic pain.

• NeuroVR – An open-source VR system that allows clinicians to customize exposure therapy environments tailored to their patient’s needs.

Getting Trained in VR Therapy (Step By Step Process)

Integrating VR therapy into your practice requires familiarity with both the technology and therapeutic protocols. Here’s how to get started:

1. Online Courses & Certifications

   • VR Therapy Training by Psious (includes hands-on modules)

   • OxfordVR Training Programs for structured VR-based interventions

   • Continuing Medical Education (CME) courses on digital mental health and VR applications

2. Workshops & Conferences

   • Attend workshops at events like APA’s Annual Meeting or VR in Healthcare conferences for hands-on training.

   • Participate in university-led research programs testing VR interventions.

3. Clinical Implementation

   • Start with a pilot program: integrate VR therapy with a select group of patients.

   • Join professional networks or forums where clinicians share their experiences using VRET.

   • Partner with VR companies offering clinician support for onboarding.

Costs of VR Therapy: What to Expect

As virtual reality therapy (VRET) becomes more integrated into clinical practice, it's important to understand the costs involved. The price of VR therapy tools can vary widely depending on the platform, the features offered, and the level of clinician support provided. Here's a general breakdown of the costs you might encounter when considering VRET for your practice:

1. Subscription-Based Platforms

   Most VR therapy platforms operate on a monthly subscription model per clinician. This fee often includes access to various therapy modules, patient management features, and support services. These platforms may also offer add-ons, such as biofeedback integration, that can increase the cost.

2. One-Time Licensing or Setup Fees

   Some platforms may require an initial investment to cover setup, licensing, and hardware costs. This could range from $1,000 to $5,000 or more, depending on the software’s complexity and the number of clinicians using it. In addition to the software, you may also need to purchase VR hardware like headsets, which can cost anywhere from $200 to $1,000 each.

3. Open-Source and Free Options 

   If you are looking for a more budget-friendly option, there are open-source VR therapy tools available. These platforms are typically free to use but may require more technical expertise to set up and customize. Open-source tools may still involve costs for hardware and may not offer the same level of customer support as paid platforms.

4. Training and Certification 

   Many VR therapy platforms also offer specialized training programs for clinicians. These programs can range in price from $100 to $500, depending on the provider and the depth of the training. Some platforms also offer certification programs or Continuing Medical Education (CME) courses that can enhance your qualifications.

Does Insurance Cover VR Therapy?

The insurance landscape for VRET is still evolving, and so it's not universally covered and depends on the specific therapy, insurance plan, and provider. Clinicians interested in offering VRET should check with insurance providers to determine the level of coverage for their specific patient population and treatment protocols. In some cases, out-of-pocket costs for VR therapy may apply, though this may vary by location and insurer.

It’s also worth noting that reimbursement for VR therapy might be more common in certain settings, such as hospitals or outpatient clinics, where the therapy is provided as part of a broader, evidence-based treatment plan.

Final Thoughts

VR therapy is no longer a futuristic concept, it’s a growing tool in modern psychiatry. By leveraging VR software and investing in proper training, clinicians can enhance patient care and stay ahead in digital mental health innovation. If you’ve been waiting for the right time to hop on the VRET train, now is the moment!

References

1. Freely available virtual reality applications with mental health potential. (2021, December 8). National Elf Service. https://www.nationalelfservice.net/treatment/digital-health/virtual-reality-mental-health/

2. How to Incorporate Virtual Reality in Therapy for Your Cash or Insurance-Based Practice. (2023, February 2). HelloNote. https://hellonote.com/virtual-reality-therapy-rehabilitation-patient-care/

3. McMahon, E., & Boeldt, D. (2021). Virtual Reality Therapy for Anxiety. https://doi.org/10.4324/9781003154068