Virtual Reality Therapy (VR) is one of several tools that may be incorporated into treatment when clinically appropriate. It is not a standalone treatment and is not used with every patient. At the practice of Dr. Ginny Estupinian, PhD, ABPP, a board-certified clinical psychologist in Los Gatos, CA, treatment decisions are based first on a comprehensive evaluation and the specific needs of the individual.
VR may be helpful in certain cases involving anxiety, phobias, trauma-related symptoms, stress regulation, or performance-related concerns. However, its use depends on the patient’s symptoms, treatment goals, tolerance, and clinical presentation. Some individuals benefit from VR-based interventions, while others may require different evidence-based approaches.
The goal is never to choose a treatment because of the technology itself. The goal is to select the modality that best fits the patient.
What Is Virtual Reality Therapy?
Virtual Reality Therapy (VR) is a technology-assisted method that enables individuals to experience simulated environments in a controlled, structured setting. These environments can be designed to replicate real-world situations or create specific conditions relevant to treatment.
In clinical practice, VR is not used as a treatment on its own. Instead, it may be incorporated into therapy as a tool to support specific interventions when appropriate. The purpose is to help individuals engage with situations, sensations, or scenarios that may be difficult to access, control, or reproduce in real life.
VR can be particularly useful when gradual, controlled exposure or environmental simulation is beneficial to the therapeutic process. However, its use is always determined by clinical judgment and the patient’s individual needs.
VR is one of several tools that may be considered as part of a broader, individualized treatment plan.
Important Note
Virtual Reality Therapy in this practice is conducted exclusively in the office and is always led by Dr. Estupinian. It is not a remote or self-guided service and cannot be delivered through personal devices or consumer VR systems.
How Virtual Reality Is Used in Treatment
Virtual Reality Therapy is not used as a standalone treatment. It may be incorporated into therapy as one component of a broader, structured treatment plan when clinically appropriate.
Its use is determined after a comprehensive evaluation, based on the individual’s symptoms, treatment goals, and tolerance for this type of intervention. Some patients benefit from VR-based methods, while others do not, and alternative approaches are used when it is not indicated.
When used, VR may support specific aspects of treatment such as controlled exposure, environmental simulation, or targeted skill development. These applications are integrated into therapy alongside other evidence-based methods rather than used in isolation.
In some cases, VR may also be used to support relaxation-based interventions. For example, individuals who are highly anxious or unable to quiet their thoughts may benefit from brief exposure to calming virtual environments while practicing structured breathing or guided relaxation techniques. This use is selective and based on individual response.
When Virtual Reality May Be Used in Treatment
Virtual Reality Therapy is not used as a primary or standalone treatment for these conditions. Instead, it may be incorporated selectively within a broader, evidence-based treatment plan when clinically appropriate.
Research supports the use of VR-based interventions across a range of clinical areas. However, in practice, its use depends on the individual’s symptoms, treatment goals, and tolerance. Not all patients benefit from VR, and alternative approaches are used when it is not indicated.
The versatility of VR therapy makes it an excellent tool for addressing a wide range of mental health concerns:
- Anxiety Disorders and Phobias:
- Social anxiety
- Agoraphobia
- Claustrophobia
- Fear of flying
- Fear of public speaking
- Driving phobia
- Social anxiety
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD):
- Combat-related PTSD
- Trauma from natural disasters or accidents
- Depression:
- Skills training for managing depression
- Addressing teenage depression
- Skills training for managing
- Mindfulness and Relaxation:
- Mindfulness skills training
- Meditation practice
- Relaxation techniques before, during, and after medical procedures
- Attention and Focus:
- Attention skills training
- Practicing focus without distractions
- Attention skills training
- General Well-being:
- Enhancing the overall sense of well-being
- Stress reduction
depression
The presence of a condition on this list does not mean Virtual Reality Therapy will be used. Treatment decisions are based on a comprehensive clinical evaluation and what is most appropriate for the individual.
When Virtual Reality May Not Be Appropriate
Virtual Reality Therapy is not appropriate for every individual. While some patients benefit from VR-based interventions, others may not tolerate or respond well to this approach.
Some individuals may experience physical discomfort when using VR, including dizziness, disorientation, headaches, or visual strain. For others, the nature of their symptoms or treatment goals may make alternative approaches more effective.
In these cases, other evidence-based methods are used instead. Treatment is always tailored to the individual, and VR is incorporated only when it is clinically appropriate and well tolerated.
What to Expect if Virtual Reality Is Used in Treatment
When Virtual Reality Therapy is incorporated into treatment, it is introduced gradually and within a structured clinical framework. The process is guided and adjusted based on the individual’s response.
Sessions involving VR typically begin with preparation, including discussion of goals, expectations, and any potential concerns. The virtual environments are then introduced in a controlled, measured way, allowing the individual to engage at a manageable pace.
During this process, therapeutic techniques such as cognitive restructuring, breathing strategies, or other evidence-based methods are applied alongside the VR experience. The focus is not on the technology itself, but on how the individual responds and learns to manage their reactions.
At all times, the level of exposure and intensity is adjusted based on tolerance. If VR is not helpful or well-tolerated, it is discontinued, and alternative approaches are used instead.
Dr. Ginny Estupinian's Virtual Reality Therapy Program
Dr. Ginny Estupinian PhD, offers a state-of-the-art Virtual Reality Therapy program designed to provide the most effective and comfortable experience for her clients.
Immersive Environments
Dr. Estupinian’s VR therapy sessions offer a diverse range of authentic virtual environments where clients can:
- Interact with virtual people and places
- Face their fears in a controlled setting
- Practice conversations and social interactions
- Visit remote or inaccessible locations
- Relax in tranquil, calming settings
Interact with virtual people and placesThese immersive environments are highly customizable. These environments can be adjusted and customized in real time based on the individual’s clinical needs. For example:
- Driving-related exposure scenarios: Clients can experience driving on various road types, including bridges and highways, under different weather conditions.
- Public speaking simulation scenarios: Clients can practice giving presentations in front of virtual audiences, with Dr. Estupinian controlling factors such as audience size, receptiveness, and even clothing.
- Agoraphobia-related exposure environments: Clients can gradually expose themselves to crowded places, public transit, open spaces, and other challenging environments.
Cutting-Edge Equipment
Dr. Estupinian utilizes the latest medical-grade wireless VR systems to ensure your therapy sessions are:
- Comfortable
- Safe
- Private
- Highly effective
The VR Therapy Experience with Dr. Ginny Estupinian PhD, ABPP
During a VR therapy session, you’ll work closely with Dr. Estupinian to:
- Identify specific fears or anxiety triggers
- Develop a personalized treatment plan
- Gradually expose yourself to anxiety-inducing scenarios in the virtual environment
- Learn and practice coping strategies in real-time
- Process your experiences and track your progress
Identify specific fears or anxiety triggersDr. Estupinian will have complete control over the virtual environment, allowing her to:
- Adjust the intensity of exposures
- Introduce or remove specific elements
- Repeat scenarios as needed
- Ensure the pacing matches your individual needs and comfort level
For example, if you’re working on overcoming a fear of flying but aren’t ready to experience turbulence, Dr. Estupinian can guarantee a smooth virtual flight. As you progress, she can gradually introduce more challenging elements to build your confidence and resilience.
Is Virtual Reality Therapy Right for You?
Virtual Reality Therapy has shown promising results for many individuals struggling with anxiety, phobias, PTSD, and other mental health concerns. If you’re interested in determining whether it is appropriate for your situation, we encourage you to reach out to Dr. Estupinian’s office.
Dr. Estupinian will be happy to:
- Provide more detailed information about VR therapy
- Assess whether it’s a suitable option for your specific concerns
- Answer any questions you may have about the process
- Help you get started on your journey to better mental health
Contact Us
Our Staff is ready to answer all your virtual reality questions and book your appointment.
Schedule a Consultation
Treatment begins with a structured clinical evaluation to determine the most appropriate approach for your specific needs.
Virtual Reality Therapy may be incorporated into treatment when clinically indicated, but it is not used in all cases.
Call 844-802-6512 or book online to schedule a consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Virtual Reality Therapy
Is Virtual Reality Therapy a standalone treatment?
No. Virtual Reality Therapy is not used as a standalone treatment. It may be incorporated into therapy as one component of a broader, structured treatment plan when clinically appropriate.
Will I receive Virtual Reality Therapy as part of treatment?
Not necessarily. The use of Virtual Reality Therapy depends on your specific symptoms, treatment goals, and how you respond to different interventions. Many effective treatment plans do not involve VR at all.
Can Virtual Reality Therapy be done at home or online?
No. Virtual Reality Therapy in this practice is conducted exclusively in-office and is always clinician-led. It is not a remote or self-guided service and cannot be delivered through personal VR headsets or gaming systems.
Do I need special equipment to participate in VR therapy?
No. All equipment used for Virtual Reality Therapy is provided in-office and is operated by the clinician during sessions.
What conditions can Virtual Reality Therapy be used for?
Virtual Reality Therapy may be incorporated into treatment for conditions such as anxiety disorders, phobias, trauma-related symptoms, stress regulation, and performance-related concerns. However, its use depends on the individual and is not appropriate in all cases.
Is Virtual Reality Therapy safe?
When used appropriately and under clinical supervision, Virtual Reality Therapy is considered safe. However, some individuals may experience temporary side effects such as dizziness, disorientation, or headaches, which is why its use is carefully monitored.
What if I feel uncomfortable using VR?
If Virtual Reality Therapy is not well tolerated, it is not continued. Treatment is adjusted using other evidence-based approaches that are better suited to your needs.
How is Virtual Reality Therapy different from consumer VR or gaming systems?
Clinical Virtual Reality Therapy is guided in real time by a licensed psychologist using controlled, therapeutic environments. It is not comparable to consumer VR systems or video games, and it is not used for entertainment purposes.
Will Virtual Reality Therapy cure my condition?
No single intervention is presented as a cure. Virtual Reality Therapy may support certain aspects of treatment, but outcomes depend on a comprehensive approach tailored to the individual.
How do I know if Virtual Reality Therapy is right for me?
This is determined through a structured clinical evaluation. If Virtual Reality Therapy is appropriate, it may be incorporated into your treatment plan. If not, other approaches will be used.
Is Virtual Reality Therapy covered by insurance?
Virtual Reality Therapy is not billed as a separate service. It may be incorporated into therapy when clinically appropriate, and sessions are conducted as part of standard psychological treatment.
This is a private-pay practice and does not bill insurance directly. Some patients may choose to use out-of-network benefits, depending on their individual insurance plan.
What is the cost of therapy?
Therapy sessions are $300 per 50-minute session. Treatment begins with a structured clinical evaluation to determine the most appropriate approach for your needs.
Payment is accepted via HSA, FSA, major credit cards, and CareCredit.
Explore Virtual Reality Research Articles
DIFEDE, J. , CUKOR, J. , PATT, I. , GIOSAN, C. and HOFFMAN, H. (2006), The Application of Virtual Reality to the Treatment of PTSD Following the WTC Attack. Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences, 1071: 500-501. doi:10.1196/annals.1364.052
Falconer, C., Rovira, A., King, J., Gilbert, P., Antley, A., Fearon, P., . . . Brewin, C. (2016). Embodying self-compassion within virtual reality and its effects on patients with depression. BJPsych Open, 2(1), 74-80. doi:10.1192/bjpo.bp.115.002147
Fodor L.A., Carmen D. Coteț C.D., Cuijpers, P.,Szamoskozi, S., Ioana, D.D., Cristea, A. (2018) The effectiveness of virtual reality based interventions for symptoms of anxiety and depression: A meta-analysis. Scientific Reports volume 8, Article number: 10323
Gonçalves R, Pedrozo AL, Coutinho ESF, Figueira I, Ventura P (2012) Efficacy of Virtual Reality Exposure Therapy in the Treatment of PTSD: A Systematic Review. PLoS ONE 7(12): e48469. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0048469
Jones T, Moore T, Choo J (2016) The Impact of Virtual Reality on Chronic Pain. PLoS ONE 11(12): e0167523. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0167523
McSherry, T., Atterbury, M., Gartner, S., Helmold, E., Mazzacano, D., Schulman, C., Randomized, Crossover Study of Immersive Virtual Reality to Decrease Opioid Use During Painful Wound Care Procedures in Adults, Journal of Burn Care & Research, Volume 39, Issue 2, March/April 2018, Pages 278–285, https://doi.org/10.1097/BCR.0000000000000589
Maples-Keller, J. L., Bunnell, B. E., Kim, S. J., & Rothbaum, B. O. (2017). The Use of Virtual Reality Technology in the Treatment of Anxiety and Other Psychiatric Disorders. Harvard review of psychiatry, 25(3), 103–113. doi:10.1097/HRP.0000000000000138
Rizzo, A., Cukor, J., Gerardi, M. et al. J Contemp Psychother (2015) 45: 255. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10879-015-9306-3
Rothbaum, B. O., Hodges, L., Smith, S., Lee, J. H., & Price, L. (2000). A controlled study of virtual reality exposure therapy for the fear of flying. Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, 68(6), 1020-1026.
Shah, Lubna Bte Iskhandar et al.Efficacy of the Virtual Reality-Based Stress Management Program on Stress-Related Variables in People With Mood Disorders: The Feasibility Study. Archives of Psychiatric Nursing, Volume 29, Issue 1, 6 – 13
Zeng, N., Pope, Z., Lee, J., & Gao, Z. (2018). Virtual Reality Exercise for Anxiety and Depression: A Preliminary Review of Current Research in an Emerging Field. Journal of Clinical Medicine, 7(3), 42. MDPI AG. Retrieved from http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/jcm7030042