Therapists are increasingly offering virtual reality ( VR ) as a means of treating people with common fears , such as fear of heights . Lighter and more affordable technology has made it possible to expose sufferers to their fears gradually in a safe and realistic environment using VR headsets . Research shows it can be an effective alternative to traditional exposure therapy , and some people – especially children – use it . Experts predict that VR therapy will soon be available for people with mild fears to treat themselves at home via the internet .
Therapists are increasingly offering virtual reality (VR) as a means of treating people with common phobias, such as fear of heights. Lighter and more affordable equipment has made it possible to expose sufferers to their fears gradually in a safe and realistic environment using VR headsets. Research shows VR can be an effective alternative to traditional exposure therapy, and some people – especially children – prefer it. Experts predict that VR therapy will soon be available for people with mild phobias to treat themselves at home via the internet.