In their current publication, Montesano & Seinfeld (2025) present a three-dimensional framework model for the classification and development of VR-based psychotherapy applications. The goal is to create a common language for therapists, developers, and researchers to plan, analyze, and evaluate the therapeutic use of Virtual Reality more precisely.
The model is based on three dimensions:
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Strategy – What therapeutic objective does the intervention pursue?
(e.g., confrontation, skills training, exploration) -
Focus – Which psychological area does the intervention target?
(e.g., symptoms, attitudes, identity) - Perspektive – Welche Rolle nimmt die Patientin bzw. der Patient im virtuellen Raum ein? (Selbst, Andere, Beobachter:in, Mehrperspektive)
This structure was illustrated based on five individual case reports from various clinical areas – including chronic pain, social anxiety, depression, and psychosis. The therapeutic approaches ranged from cognitive behavioral therapy and systemic therapy to mindfulness and values-based methods. The model demonstrates how flexible and effective VR interventions can be designed when they are developed and reflected upon along clearly defined axes.
This concept supports our work. With virtuallythere, we develop realistic VR scenarios that are specifically oriented towards therapeutic and educational goals – scientifically grounded and suitable for practical use in psychotherapy.
