VR Has It: A Framework for Virtual Reality Integration into Therapy

This chapter provides an overview and description of the integration of virtual reality into the therapeutic processes. Building upon empirical data, case study, and practice, this chapter identifies critical components and the qualities of virtual reality, which make it an excellent tool for therapies. This chapter also provides an exposure protocol for the use of virtual reality with children. The elements identified in this chapter, immersion, authenticity, and fluidity, derive from several studies on design and implementation of VR in therapeutic practice. Therapeutic virtual reality approaches are deeply tied to education, psychology, and counselling, not just through the applications of technology in these disciplines but at the core of many approaches in these disciplines. The protocol and elements for therapeutic virtual reality design are presented as a basis for consideration of integration of virtual reality in therapies.